Last Updated on: 27th September 2025, 06:24 am
Renowned Consultant Plastic Surgeon Dr Carlo Debbas has outlined professional tips for a safer and more comfortable recovery following cosmetic surgery. With years of specialist expertise, he points to local anaesthesia as a practical alternative to general anaesthesia that can improve outcomes, cut down on post-operative side effects and speed up recuperation without compromising quality of results.
His guidance is intended for anyone planning cosmetic surgery and seeking a smoother, less stressful experience.
“Performing cosmetic surgery under local anaesthesia allows patients to remain fully awake and cooperative throughout their procedure, while experiencing a completely pain-free experience,” said Dr Carlo. “This approach offers numerous benefits over general anaesthesia.”
Dr Carlo identifies five principal benefits of local anaesthesia in cosmetic procedures:
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Reduced risk of complications – “local anaesthesia avoids systemic side effects associated with general anaesthesia, such as cardiovascular or respiratory problems, aspiration and the need for intubation.”
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No post-operative nausea or vomiting – “patients recover comfortably without the side effects commonly caused by general anaesthetic medications.”
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Faster recovery – “after a short monitoring period, patients can return home feeling well without lingering effects.”
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Cost-effective – “local anaesthesia eliminates the need for hospitalisation, anaesthesiologist fees and additional medications.”
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Safety and efficiency – “procedures under local anaesthesia are extremely safe when performed by experienced GMC registered surgeons in CQC regulated clinics in the UK.”
Dr Carlo added: “The only consideration is that patients are awake during the procedure, which can cause some anxiety for certain individuals. However, this is far outweighed by the safety, comfort and efficiency benefits.”
For prospective patients, these insights underline that local anaesthesia can be a reassuringly safe and effective approach to cosmetic enhancement with reduced recovery concerns.
Dr Carlo Debbas, a London-born consultant plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon, practises at Signature Clinic in London, Birmingham, Cardiff and Manchester. A graduate of the American University of Beirut, he trained in general surgery before advancing in body-contouring and high-definition liposuction at Brazil’s prestigious Ivo Pitanguy Institute, followed by a facial aesthetic surgery fellowship at Laclinic-Montreux in Switzerland. He consults in English, French, Portuguese and Arabic.
Signature Clinic runs the largest network of cosmetic surgery practices in the UK, with locations in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Cardiff, London and Dublin, open daily throughout the week. Its services span a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical treatments including facelifts, blepharoplasty, body-sculpting, injectables and advanced skin therapies.
