Calling all scaredy cats! Are you apprehensive about having a procedure because of anxiety or pain? Rivela Plastic Surgery has great news for you and is pleased to provide the Pro-Nox ™ Aesthetic System, offering a 50/50 combination of inhaled oxygen and nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas). While it is not a replacement for anesthesia, ProNox enhances the effects of local anesthetics, like lidocaine, especially for patients who may be feeling anxious.
While Vicodin (a pain relief) and/or Valium (a muscle relaxant) take time for the effects to work and then several hours to leave the body requiring a driver to drive the patient home. In comparison, Pro-Nox provides quick-acting pain relief and the effects wear off quickly allowing the patient to safely drive themselves home.
Dr. Rivela and his entire team are so awesome. They are very prompt and informative. Consultation, pre-op, and post-op appointments went great, and they do a great job answering any questions I have. You will feel at home (:
What is Pro-Nox Used For?
It is appropriate for virtually any procedure that patients may find painful. Studies have shown that Pro-Nox is an effective and non-addictive option for superior comfort during these procedures. Fillers and in-office surgeries usually require some form of topical or injected numbing product. With Pro-Nox, the procedure itself becomes much more comfortable for the patient, and the provider does not need to stop to relieve patient discomfort. It sometimes eliminates the need for injection numbing, which may cause more downtime if bruising occurs.
How Does Pro-Nox Work?
As a natural blend of 50% oxygen and 50% nitrous analgesia and is self-administered by the patient, ProNox is a through-a-valve inhalation system that only delivers the medical gases when the patient breathes in. The 50/50 mix has been safely and effectively used around the world in labor and delivery for decades.
During an in-office cosmetic procedure in The Woodlands, the patient holds on to the disposable mouthpiece and hose as they breathe the nitrous oxide by doing so the patient is able to control how much or how little of the nitrous oxide is needed during the procedure. Since each patient is different and is the best judge of comfort as well as discomfort, the control is put into the hands of the patient.
Is Pro-Nox The Same As Laughing Gas At The Dentists?
No. When patients are given the nitrous mask for a dental procedure, they have little to no control over the dosage and amount administered with a concentration of nitrous oxide that is generally used for dental procedures up to 70%. The Pro-Nox System is a 50/50 mixture that puts patients safely in control of their comfort at all times.
When Does Pro-Nox Take Effect?
The benefits of the split 50/50 mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen gases take effect within seconds of inhaling the blend, providing increased comfort and reduced anxiety. These effects last for a few minutes at a time and can be extended by self-administering more of the mixture as needed. When using Pro-Nox, a patient breathes into the mouthpiece when needed. After administering, taking normal breaths allows the nitrous oxide to move out of the system quickly.
How Long Does Pro-Nox Last?
Effects wear off in 5-10 minutes. There is no trace of the chemical in the body. The short-lasting effects of Pro-Nox allow the patient to reap the benefits of an analgesic, while still being able to drive before and after a procedure. With Pro-Nox, patients now have the ability to respond to pain or discomfort on their own terms, without disrupting the rest of their day.
How Much Does Pro-Nox Cost?
Pro-Nox, which is not covered by insurance, and costs $100. It is an out-of-pocket cost, but can be paid with FSA or HSA funds. If you are apprehensive about ANY procedures at Rivela Plastic Surgery in The Woodlands, ask us if Pro-Nox is available.
Are There Any Contraindications with Pro-Nox?
Some possible short-term side effects of nitrous oxide are dizziness, nausea, light-headedness, and unsteadiness. Anemia and/or a vitamin B12 deficiency is a major contraindication of Pro-Nox. Someone who suffers from extreme chronic fatigue, a typical symptom of anemia and B12 deficiency, should not use Pro-Nox. Pro-Nox is contraindicated for patients, providers, and assistants in the first trimester of pregnancy. Other relative contraindications include nasal obstruction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, active cystic fibrosis, and recent tympanic membrane.
CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT Pro-Nox
Seek out the help of Dr. Lucian Rivela to learn more about Pro-Nox in The Woodlands. Book an appointment today to get your inquiries answered and your problems addressed.
