Would I be able to have a Mommy makeover if I have Graves Disease?

Thank you for your question about undergoing a mommy makeover (which typically includes a tummy tuck, breast lift, and possibly breast augmentation) when you have Graves' disease. This is an important consideration as your overall health and the management of your condition are key factors in determining your suitability for elective cosmetic surgery.

Yes, it is possible to have a mommy makeover if you have Graves' disease, but it's crucial that your condition is well-managed and under control. Before proceeding with surgery, comprehensive preoperative evaluations are essential. These may include blood tests, an EKG, chest X-ray, and possibly additional tests like a cardiac stress test and carotid duplex scan to assess your overall health and readiness for surgery.

Stable control of Graves' disease, characterized by normal blood values and the absence of significant medical comorbidities, is vital for undergoing a procedure like a mommy makeover safely. It's important to work closely with both your plastic surgeon and endocrinologist (or the healthcare provider managing your Graves' disease) to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for this surgery.

For general understanding, Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, leading to symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid issues are relatively common, and various public figures have been known to experience thyroid problems, underscoring that this is a condition that can affect anyone.

When planning for a mommy makeover, it's critical to continue your thyroid medications as prescribed before and after surgery. Proper management of your thyroid condition around the time of your surgery can help minimize any thyroid-related complications and support a smooth recovery.

I hope this response provides clarity on the considerations for undergoing a mommy makeover when you have Graves' disease. Please continue to consult with your healthcare providers for personalized advice and guidance.

Good luck, and I hope you have a successful and safe experience with your planned procedures.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Graves’ disease, hyperthyroidism, is very treatable and the symptoms controllable. You should check with your primary care doctor and get a referral to an endocrinologist who could give you the best advice on how to manage this around the time of your surgery. Let your plastic surgeon know so that they can inform the anesthesiologist and the best plan for your anesthesia is in place. Best wishes.

If you are cleared by your endocrinologist to undergo general anesthesia, you could have surgery. If you have prominent globes, they have to be protected during anesthesia. Graves disease does not interfere with healing.