Can I have a tummy tuck if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Question

I had gastric bypass nine years ago lost 100 pounds my stomach has hanging skin.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and congratulations on your successful weight loss! You should be very proud of this accomplishment.
 Yes, tummy tuck procedures can be done safely for patients with a variety of different “medical conditions”. Careful evaluation and treatment of the medical condition is necessary prior to determining the appropriate candidates for the tummy tuck procedure.  In your case this would be best done by your   rheumatologist.  The physicians who know your situation best would be best suited  to discuss your suitability for the procedure and the potentially increased risks/ complications that you should consider.
Also, please make sure you are seeking consultation with  well experienced board-certified  plastic surgeons who preferably work with board-certified anesthesiologists.
I hope this helps.  Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss! You will first need to speak with your rheumatologist about your interest in plastic surgery.  If given clearance you can schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.  Depending on what you have prescribed, you may need to be off some of your medications prior to surgery due to bleeding risk.

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your weight loss!  Rheumatoid arthritis does not prevent a patient from being a good candidate for tummy tuck.  I have had patients with RA go on to have excellent results after cosmetic surgery.  It is important to discuss your complete health history with your board certified plastic surgeon so he or she can work together with your physicians to get all necessary preoperative clearances and plan any adjustments to medications needed before and after surgery.   Best of luck with your procedure!

Rohit Jaiswal, MD · Answer

The procedure may still be able to be done. If you are on steroids, NSAID's, or biologics for treatment then these may have to be stopped or modified prior to surgery and during the recovery period. This should be discussed carefully with your surgeon, and input from your rheumatologist would be needed to clarify length of time to be off of treatment.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

If you can receive clearance from your managing physician, the TT can be considered.  In general, rheumatoid arthritis in an otherwise healthy individual does not have much of an impact on the results of the surgery.  The immunosuppressive medications may need to be altered, and your rheumatologist will have to be involved in the decision making process.  Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

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Can I have a tummy tuck if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answers (9)

Answer: Tummy Tuck with arthritis

Answer: Tummy Tuck with arthritis

Answer: Can I have a tummy tuck if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Can I have a tummy tuck if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

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