The scope of use of local anesthetics in procedures in plastic surgery is covered in this issue of Clinics in Plastic Surgery. Discussion centers on plastic surgeons in private practice in ambulatory facilities and those scheduling time for OR in hospital facilities using local anesthetics while accommodating patient comfort and absence of side-effects post general anesthesia. Presented in this publication are the most common plastic surgeries that can be done under local anesthesia, each with a discussion of the optimal anesthetic, method of administration, and dosage. Video of the procedure or portion of the procedure, as applicable, accompanies the techniques along with a surgical case. The goal of this issue is to provide a concise reference for surgeons' planning surgeries to review and perhaps adapt currently used methods with this latest information on local anesthetics. Surgical Technique is provided in detail with full analysis of Patient Selection and Planning, Complications and Post-procedure Care. Contents include Complications; Basic Science of Locals; Skin Grafts and Flaps; Peripheral Nerve; Foot Surgery; Breast Surgery; Liposuction; Hand Trauma; Oculoplastic Surgery; Ear Surgery; Hair Transplantation; among others.
