Local anesthesia
Local anesthetic numbs the treatment area while you remain awake. It may be used by itself for shorter or less complex procedures, or together with sedation for added comfort.
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide — laughing gas — is breathed through a small mask during your procedure. It takes the edge off anxiety while you stay awake and aware, and it wears off within minutes of the mask coming off, so most patients can drive themselves home.
Oral sedation
A prescribed pill taken before your appointment helps you arrive relaxed and drowsy. You stay awake but care much less about the procedure, and you may remember little of it afterward. Because the effects linger, a responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you afterward.
IV sedation
Medication is delivered through an IV so you become deeply relaxed and often remember little of the procedure. You continue breathing on your own while the surgical team monitors you throughout care. A responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you afterward.
Who each option is for
The right approach depends on procedure length and complexity, age, anxiety, medical conditions, medications, airway considerations, and personal preferences. Not every option is appropriate for every patient, so the final plan is made with Dr. Shnayder.
Safety and monitoring
The clinical team is trained in outpatient anesthesia support and CPR. During IV sedation, breathing, oxygen level, heart rhythm, blood pressure, and other vital signs are monitored continuously using the equipment appropriate to the anesthetic plan.
What to expect
Before surgery, you receive specific fasting, medication, clothing, and transportation instructions. On arrival, the team confirms your health history and plan, starts monitoring, and reviews recovery with your escort. After the procedure, you remain in recovery until the team determines you are ready to leave with your responsible adult.