Can Someone Who is Taking Immunosuppressive Medicine for Crohn's Disease Get a Tummy Tuck?

There is no reason that you can't have a cosmetic procedure in your situation if your Crohn's is stable. You should certainly discuss the immunosuppression with your plastic surgeon and your gastroenterologist to determine the best way to deal with it around your surgery. If for some reason you would need abdominal surgery later, this can still safely be done either laparoscopically or open after an abdominoplasty.

You would need to be cleared for plastic surgery by your gastroenterologist.  He or she will consider the risks of surgery and medication adjustment, your overall health, your age and possible future needs.  Generally speaking, if you are otherwise a good candidate for elective surgery, there's every chance a tummy tuck plan can be worked out for you.

If you haven't already done so, it's a good idea to visit the doctor you see for your Crohn's disease to have a discussion about abdominoplasty.  When it's time to choose a plastic surgeon, be sure to arrange consultations with at least two board certified plastic surgeons who have some years of experience behind them.  You will want someone who is adept at coordinating care with other specialists and who has worked with many patients with medical issues that need to be taken into account.

Elliot Jacobs, M.D.

New York Plastic Surgeon