Can people who have autoimmune rheumatological complications undergo plastic surgery?

Autoimmune or rheumatologic conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus) are very rarely an issue if considering cosmetic surgery. I operate on such patients every month, sometimes every week, and nothing is really different, either with anesthesia or the surgery itself. The main point is to discuss surgery with your rheumatologist. Some medications, such as methotrexate, can slow the healing process, and might be discontinued prior to surgery. If you’re taking prednisone, your anesthesiologist may need to give you a stress dose of cortisone prior to surgery. Discuss your plans with your rheumatologist, then move forward if permitted. 

Thanks for your inquiry, unfortunately you ask a broad question and the answer is--it depends.  During an in person consultation a surgeon will be able to listen to your goals, stratify any risks, and devise a treatment plan.  Good Luck. 

Hello,As long as you are cleared for surgery by your rheumatologist, you can have plastic surgery. Go visit a few ABPS certified/ASAPS member surgeons.  Best of luck!

depending on your particular situation you may well be able to have plastic surgery.  You probably wouldn’t want breast implants because of the possible link between implants and autoimmune disease which is still uncertain.  But other procedures should be no problem.

Many patients with autoimmune diseases successfully undergo surgery every year, so the answer is no, having autoimmune problems does not mean that you can't have plastic surgery.  You will need to understand the risks and a consultation with one or more plastic surgeons will help you understand the risks.  Best of luck!

Dear Wantsinfo101,as long as your disease is under control, you might be a candidate for a surgery. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

This is an individual decision between a patient, rheumatologist, and plastic surgeon. It all depends on the severity of the illness and the nature of medications the patient is taking. Thank you for your question and best of luck. 

Having a rheumatological disorder does not automatically disqualify you for plastic surgery. This depends on the type of disease you have, your current medical/health condition, as well as the treatment you are receiving. It is best to discuss the details of you health history with your plastic surgeon and your plans with your rheumatologist so that the two doctors can coordinate your care for the safest and best outcome. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
IG: @Drjohnsonlee

Patients with chronic medical conditions often will be asked to obtain a "medical clearance" from their primary care providers as part of preoperative medical screening for surgery. If your chronic disease is under good medical control you may be a candidate depending on your overall health. Sometimes patients with these conditions are on steroid medication or other drugs that can impact wound healing or bleeding, and the physician managing the condition/prescribing the drug may need to provide guidance about adjustments to these medications before and after surgery. Most surgeons would agree that you should not undergo elective surgery (cosmetic or otherwise) during an active flareup, but good communication with your surgeon and PCP/rheumatologist is key to determining your candidacy and perioperative management.

Hello and thank you for your question. As long as you are not having a flare up and your condition is relatively well-controlled, your chances for success should be similar to someone without such medical diseases. I have performed breast augmentation on many patients cleared by their primary doctors and rheumatologists, and they tend to be some of my happiest clients. If  breast augmentation is something that you are seriously considering, don't be afraid. Make sure to seek the expertise of a board certified plastic surgeon for your optimal outcome. I hope this helps and have a great day!Sincerely,Dr. Sean Kelishadi