Join me as I search my soul for direction regarding my latest pursuit: A tummy tuck. Will I go through with it? Will I "Tuck It In?" Keep reading. Keep coming back. And you'll find out.

March 18, 2008

If I go through with my tummy tuck surgery as planned on April 23, I'll be put to sleep with a general anesthesia. There's some risk involved in this sleep business. One such risk is that I'll wake up while my surgeon is still working. Ouch.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists estimates that this wake-up phenomenon affects one in 14,560 patients. They also say it's possible to lower the risk.

A few days before surgery, patients can talk with their anesthesiologist about brain-wave or level-of-consciousness monitors. These record brain activity and alert doctors in cases when more anesthesia is needed. The machines are widely used but controversial because all doctors don't believe in their effectiveness.

As an alternative to brain-wave monitoring, patients should mention any personal or family history of surgery wakening as well as any past or current use of alcohol or drugs. These may affect how anesthesia works.

I should be OK if I choose to go under the knife in April. I have no worrisome surgery history, don't drink, don't use drugs, and am not taking any medications. Still, I think I'll put this wake-up topic on my question list.

NOTE: Abdominoplasty is recommended for those whose skin and muscle cannot recover on their own as a result of significant weight loss, pregnancy, aging, heredity, or prior surgery. It is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program. For more information about this surgery, click here.