How long do I have to come off RA humira injections before breast lift & when can I restart?

Question

Breast lift and RA. I’m a 39 year old mom of 5… i recently had my baby in June, I’m almost down to my normal weight, about 4 pounds away. However my breasts are in dire need of a lift. But, I do have rheumatoid arthritis, and I am On humira injections. How long do i have to come off of the medication before the procedure and how long until i can restart after. Also, what are lifting restrictions?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Congratulations of the newest bundle of of joy! Its great that you are loosing most of the baby weight. I would suggest waiting at least until 6 months post your delivery for a lift for several reasons; one it gives you more time to be at your ideal weight goal, you can still loose fat in and around the breast area with weight loss. Another factor is lactation, even if you are not breast feeding there still can breast milk produced in the breast tissue which sometimes can create complications such as infections if the breast lift is performed too soon. With regards to the humira injections, that is something to discuss with your rheumatologist; usually typical period is 1-2 months off the injection to restore safe wound healing after the breast surgery. For weight lifting, typically no heavy lifting greater than 10 lbs for at least 4 weeks. Usually the first 3 weeks are critical for this and we really recommend 6 weeks of no heavy physical exercise but light walking and lower extremity exercise permitted. Good luck and patience is key when trying to obtain your best results. Of course you can have a consultation in the meantime to plan out your surgery and timeline.

Anna Steve, MD · Answer

It's important to communicate with your Rheumatologist regarding the stopping and starting of your Humira, as the recommendations will be partly guided my how well managed your arthritis is. Humira does affect wound healing so holding a dose will be beneficial to optimize wound healing capacity post-operatively. Generally no heavy lifting for the first 2 weeks.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I don’t think you need to come off Humira but you should check with your surgeon and the doctor who is giving the humira to you

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Lifeless boobs,every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jose Telich, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. 
Humira must not be injected in the 6 weeks preceding surgery. Treatment can usually be restarted after 2 weeks provided there is no evidence of infection and the wound is healing well.
Patients are usually asked to limit arm movements and efforts for two weeks after surgery.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You will be restricted on, lifting up to 6 weeks. Most surgeons will ask for you to be off Humira for 2 weeks prior to surgery and 1-2 weeks after. Some might let you get by with just 2 weeks of Humira.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

First, you should clear any cessation of your Humira with your Rheumatologist.
Most suggest stopping your Humira two weeks before surgery and 1-2 weeks after (I like 2 weeks post op for better wound healing)
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

You will get varying opinions, but it is generally recommended to be off Humira for 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after elective surgery.

You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon, who should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), that you trust and are comfortable with.  It is important to follow all of his or her instructions.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La Jolla, California

How long do I have to come off RA humira injections before breast lift & when can I restart?

Answers (8)

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