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

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

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.

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!

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. 

Whenever we perform elective cosmetic surgery, our number 1 concern is the health of the patient.  Surgery can be successful with Rheumatoid Arthritis, some adjustment of your medications will be needed during the perioperative phase.  Please consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who performs body contouring procedures frequently to assure the best possible result.Good Luck!