Can I have a Rhinoplasty done if I have NMO (autoimmune disease)?

Question

I take rituximab and prednisone every six months to prevent relapses although I have not had any relapses. The NMO affected my spine causing paralysis from waist down but praise God I am walking now..(cant run)...but can walk.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Your condition on its own is not- in my opinion- a contra indication to Rhinoplasty. Your specialist who handles your overall medical conditions must clear you completely for any operative procedure.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

All forms of immunosuppressive therapy can increase the risk of infection and/or impair wound healing after surgery. So your question is a good one. The answer would come from knowing more about the frequency of these medications, whether you are on them together, what is your blood counts, whether you can be off them for any period of time and what type of rhinoplasty you need. For now all that can be said is to go through the evaluation process and use that information to balance the benefits vs risks of undergoing elective nasal surgery.

Jeremy B. White, MD · Answer

Autoimmune disease is not a rigid contraindication to rhinoplasty surgery, but you might be at higher risk for problems if you are taking medication that suppress your immune system. You have to weight the risks and rewards of surgery and discuss this further with the specialist who manages your medical problems.

Robert S. Schmidt, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I think it would depend on a few factors. If you are immunosuppressed at all, you have a higher risk of infection from any kind of surgery. Infection from rhinoplasty isn't common, but I have seen a few. You would also have slower healing than someone with a normal immune system. If you came to me, I'd want to have a letter from your rheumatologist saying that THEY thought it was a good idea or not. You'd also need to be cleared by your primary care doc. I'm an expert in nasal surgery; they're an expert in everything else!

David Reinstadler, MD · Answer

This is a tough question. There are specific autoimmune diseases that may affect healing while others may have more risk with anesthesia. I would have an in depth discussion with your rhumatologist to see what the risks of general anesthesia would be on your condition. If they were able to clear you for surgery with low risks, then it would be up to you and your surgeon. It is just another risk to add to anesthesia. Best of luck

Dennis Barek, MD (retired) · Answer

After reading the risks and side effects of rituximab infusions and knowing the side effects of prednisone on surgery, I would be reluctant to operate under such circumstances.

Jay M. Pensler, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Your condition in and of itself is not a contraindication for surgery. I have operated on both kidney and liver transplant patients.You most definitely will need preoperative clearance from the individual/individuals who is/are managing your medical care.

Can I have a Rhinoplasty done if I have NMO (autoimmune disease)?

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