Some HT doctors perform their procedures under local anesthetic, while others use an IV and place you completely under.

For the patient I believe being put completely under is less traumatic then being awake for numerous hours while they cut and poke your head. The only side-effect would be that afterwards you will have to have someone drive you home.

What do the professionals think?

This is a good question because my understanding is that anesthetics can cause hair loss and stress from surgery can as well.

I hope a few doctors will respond to this.