Can you still get lipo and a tummy tuck with an autoimmune disorder?

Most cosmetic procedures can be preformed on people with an autoimmune disorder.  Your plastic surgeon will request a formal letter of clearance from the doctor managing your MCTD.  You're not having a foreign substance or implant used in your procedure will likely be approved.  When you're undergoing any procedure, your surgeon will order tests that are appropriate for your gender, age, and medical history.  In your case, your MCTD will and should be a red flag for your plastic surgeon but that just means you need clearance, in most cases.  Always speak with a board certified plastic surgeon before considering any procedure.  You're going to do great.  

Thanks for the question. Most Plastic Surgeons will have patients with autoimmune diseases asking the same question.
The straight forward answer to your question is - No, you are not disqualified.
Studies have shown that if the MCTD is managed well before and after the surgery, the risks of surgery, such as wound issues,  are slightly elevated but not to the point of disqualifying you from surgery. The important thing is that you will want to have open communication between your plastic surgeon and immunologist. They can formulate a game plan to reduce your risks to an acceptable level. 
Also, you should reduce any other factors that might increase your risks during surgery. For example, smokers need to stop smoking, diabetics need to control their blood sugar and patients with high blood pressure need to keep their pressure under control. Other studies show that risks also increase when patients are above a certain weight to height ratio, also known as a BMI. BMI's should be less than 30 for elective surgeries. It is easy to find a BMI chart on the internet and plug in your height and weight. If your BMI is over 30, then you can figure out how much weight to loose to get under a BMI of 30.
Overall, since you are recently diagnosed, I think you can consider a tummy tuck. Just be sure to have good communication between all your doctors. Try to reduce all other risk factors and you might find you have an acceptable risk to undergo a tummy tuck.
Good luck!

Hi . The simple answer is no it does not disqualify you. However, you need to get a complete medical clarnace and let your immunologist know what your plans are.I have been performing tummy tucks and liposuctions in the land of tummys and lipo, Miami, Florida for the past 29 years.I encourage you to look up the surgeon you eventually select and make sure they have years of experience in performing tummy tucks and liposuctions. Furthermore request to see before and after photos of previous patients by that doctor....not a clinic or surgery center. Do your homework......research and verify the doctor's credentials. Have they had problems with the Board of Medicine, disciplinary or otherwise. Any law suits? 
How about the center, clinic or facility? Are they accredited by a national organization or do they just have State approval. Understand that at the current time, there are three nationally recognized organizations responsible for the highest levels of patient safety, AAAASF, AAACH and JCHO. You owe it to yourself to position yourself for the best possible results but under the most stringent safety regulations, If you have kids, even more so.
How about anesthesia? Will you have a medical doctor certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology or a certified nurse anesthetist (CRNA)? Understand that there is no substitute for research. Cosmetic surgery, no matter how simple it may be to the patients, are invasive procedures and as such carry certain risks and complications
In our office, as in others, we use TouchMD which is a web based program in which patients have the ability to load their picture unto the program. I then evaluate them and can actually draw on the picture to show a potential patient where the incisions would be located and how the procedure is to be realized. It's all done to comply with HIPPA which is the federal law that protects the patient's medical information. Look them up. I hope this information has been beneficial.Dr. PG

Thank you for your question.As long as you are cleared by your Rheumatologist and Primary care doctor, you should be able to proceed with surgery. The autoimmune disorder doesnt exclude your from surgery. If you are on steriods you may need to postpone until you finish the course because that can delay healing. I would discuss this with your care givers and then proceed with what is your safest option. Good luck.

Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, however it may not affect your planned surgery.  As long as you are not taking steroids, surgery should be OK as long as your rheumatologist or medical doctor deem it to be safe.  I have successfully operated on patients with similiar diseases, and they did fine.  Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!

 Thank you very much for this question. It is very hard to answer this without knowing your detailed medical history and especially the medications you are taking. It is in any case worth seeking a consultation with a plastic surgeon to have you assessed. An auto immune disease is not necessarily a contraindication. All the best on your way. Have a wonderful rest of the day and greetings from the beautiful island of Jamaica

It would be helpful to know if the MCTD is being treated with any medications and your current health status. Provided the autoimmune disorder is under control, there may not be a contraindication to a TT.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Not sure the autoimmune disorder disqualifies you but more importantly, what medications are you currently taking? Patients on steroids have impaired wound healing and that would make your risk of complications from lipo/TT much higher. Best to see a board certified plastic surgeon who takes the time to properly evaluate and examine you in person. Good luck!!

I would recommend that you first undergo a preoperative evaluation with your doctor to see if you’re a candidate for surgery. You should also discuss with him or her the risks of surgery and wound healing. I hope you find this information useful. Please watch the enclosed video.

Yes, generally speaking, patients with autoimmune disorders are able to undergo tummy tuck surgery. However, specific "suitability for surgery" can only be determined by your rheumatologist who knows you best.  He/she will be able to provide you with good advice. Once you have received this "medical clearance", seek consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate lots of experience helping patients achieve the types of results you would be pleased with. Best wishes.