Can a patient with MS get plastic surgery???

Question

I am trying to get a mommy makeover. My neurologist gave me the ok in my hometown. But I decided to go to miami. Pick three docs to have consultations with. I was told that Dr. Salzhauer won't ever perform surgery on me bc my ms. Sad bc he was my first pick. Anyways just wondering if there's docs out there that will see me???

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thanks for your very interesting question. The short answer to your question is that yes, plastic surgery can be safe and effective in patients with MS. That being said, there are many factors that go into that decision. One factor is the severity of your disease and your other medical conditions. If you have very mild MS but many other medical problems, it may be those other medical problems that make you are poor surgical candidate. Another issue is the risk of anesthesia with MS. If you decide to proceed, it might be worth while to have a pre-op appointment with the anesthesia staff where you will be having the surgery to discuss your unique risks and the strategies they will employ to minimize that risk. And as always, you should be evaluated by both your primary care doctor and your neurologist for pre-operative clearance and they should provide a letter to your plastic surgeon stating such. I would also advise you to seek a local plastic surgeon in your area. Do not be wowed by the glitz and glamour of having a Miami plastic surgeon. There are plenty of excellent surgeons in Miami, but there are also plenty of excellent surgeons in your area as well. Please see the link below that I provided which is a search on the ASPS website for Bloomfield, CT. Get a consultation with a qualified local plastic surgeon and discuss your case with them. A local person will be much more willing to take on your case because they can provide better post-op care and have access to your other doctors to assist in your care. Good luck to you and I hope this helps!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Multiple sclerosis is a disease with very different types of progression from individual to individual. If you disease is stable in your neurologist is on board there's no problem with elective cosmetic surgery.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thanks for your question. It is ultimately up to your Plastic Surgeon to get medical clearance from your primary doctor. If cleared, there should be no issues. Be sure your surgeon is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Best of luck!Dr. JSB

Clark Schierle, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

If you have been cleared by your neurologist there is no medical reason to deny you the surgery you would like.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

I have done cosmetic surgery on several patients with MS without any problems.  However, pre-operative clearance is mandatory from the neurologist and internist.

Can a patient with MS get plastic surgery???

Answers (5)