General anesthesia makes you unconscious, so you are not aware and do not feel pain during surgery. Sedation makes you relaxed or sleepy, but you are not fully unconscious. Depending on the level, you may be able to talk, and you may or may not remember the procedure. Local anesthesia numbs a small area of the body, and you stay awake and alert.

In plain terms:

• General anesthesia: whole-body sleep-like state for major surgery.
• Sedation: calm or sleepy medicine for shorter or less complex procedures.
• Local anesthesia: numbs one small spot, like skin for stitches or a mole removal.

The right type depends on the procedure and your overall health. Verify the exact plan with your surgical or anesthesia team in case they want something different for you.