What analgesic can be given to a patient who is about undergo plastic surgery?

The choice of analgesic for a patient about to undergo plastic surgery depends on various factors such as the extent and type of surgery, the patient's medical history, and individual pain tolerance. Some commonly used analgesics in plastic surgery include:

Non-opioid analgesics:

- Acetaminophen (paracetamol): This is often the first-line analgesic used for mild to moderate pain.

- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or celecoxib: These can effectively reduce pain and inflammation.

Opioid analgesics:

Opioid analgesics are typically used for moderate to severe pain. However, their use is often limited due to potential side effects such as respiratory depression, nausea, and constipation. Common opioids used in plastic surgery include:

- Morphine

- Oxycodone

- Fentanyl

Local anesthetics:

These are used to numb a specific area of the body, providing pain relief during and after surgery. They can be administered through injections, creams, or sprays. Common local anesthetics include lidocaine and bupivacaine.

Regional anesthesia:

This involves injecting local anesthetics into the nerves that supply a specific body region. This can provide more extensive pain relief than local anesthetics alone and is often used in plastic surgery procedures like breast augmentation or liposuction.

The decision regarding which analgesic or combination of analgesics to use is usually made by the anesthesiologist or surgeon in consultation with the patient. They will consider the patient's individual needs and preferences, along with the expected pain level and duration after the surgery.