Nobody respects the anesthesiologist until it's time to go "under". Trust me, an absolute expert took care of me when I had my colonoscopy and another did when I had my shoulder repaired.
Oddly, the recovery room nurse was surprised at how lucid I was after my shoulder work. He probably wasn't aware of my experiences at being semi-conscious on occasion (mostly alcohol-induced stupidity in my younger years). He showed me my charts, and I admired the doctor's work. The stitches were excellent!
Bah! ANYBODY can put you under. The anesthesiologist can bring you back!