Rejected for Facelift/Necklift Due to Mild Primary Immune Deficiency. Can I Never Have Surgery?

Question

I was rejected for a Facelft/Necklift because of a mild primary immune deficiency. I was diagnosed 11 years ago because of chronic sinus infections, and a below normal IgG antibody level. I began monthly IVIG infusions, and since then, have had no sinus infections, and have a normal IgG antibody level. My immunologist says that my risk of having complications from this procedure due to the immune deficiency is “very low”. I am 66, and otherwise healthy. Can I never have a Facelift/Necklift?

Bryan Brandon, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for the excellent question. In general this does not sound like an absolute contraindication to facelift surgery. Every surgeon must weigh the risks and benefits to doing a cosmetic procedure on someone. Some surgeons may feel that your immunodeficiency poses too high of a risk to justify the procedure, but other surgeons may not feel that way. I would suggest obtaining a second consultation by another surgeon.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

Great question.  A complete review of your medical history and a medical clearance would be necessary to proceed.  The answer would partially depend on the type and severity of infections, but I would generally not rule out a patient because of sinus infections.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

As you know, people with primary immune deficiency from low IgG levels are at increased risk for infections, mainly respiratory and gastrointestinal.  There is not much known about the effect of IgG deficiency and postoperative infections.  With facelift/necklift surgery, there is always a risk of infection, such as pneumonia from the breathing tube, GI infections from the antibiotics, and skin infections from the incisions.  I would not say that you could never have a facelift/necklift.  The surgeon and patient must consider these risks, and both must agree that the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

If your immune doctor will write a full letter of clearance than I would consider full Face/Neck Lift. fee $20,000. Best to virtual consult with....

Rejected for Facelift/Necklift Due to Mild Primary Immune Deficiency. Can I Never Have Surgery?

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