Can I qualify mini facelift & rhinoplasty if I am on immunotherapy following a kidney transplant?

Question

Hello, I'm 44 years old and received a kidney transplant in 2018. Everything has been stable since I received my transplant. I currently take take Tacrolimus and mycophenolic acid as my immunotherapy. I would like to eventually consider a mini facelift and rhinoplasty. Can I qualify for these plastic surgeries? I feel there's some surgeons that will and some that won't. Any tips and perspectives on this matter? Thank you!

Jill Hessler, MD · Answer

Any cosmetic procedure is elective so we want to make sure patients are healthy and there is minimal risk to healing so you can achieve the best outcome. Your transplant surgeon has followed your healing and your bloodwork so they would be the best gauge is you are a good candidate for surgery. Any plastic surgeon would require the approval and a letter of clearance for you to undergo cosmetic procedures from your transplant physician. They may ask- if you have had other surgical procedures of any kind and how you healed from these procedures.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You will need medical clearance from your nephrologist prior to having any surgery.  The risk of complications involving your kidneys is low and would depend on your particular situation

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Since you have a transplant, you are likely on immunosuppressive medications. The good news is that rhinoplasty surgery and facelift surgery are typically not associated with post-surgical infections. Your nephrologist would be able to provide medical clearance, if that is indeed indicated. Thank you for this question! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. If you are able to obtain medical clearance from the team that manages your transplant, then you could likely safely proceed forward with surgery. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Can I qualify mini facelift & rhinoplasty if I am on immunotherapy following a kidney transplant?

Answers (4)

Answer: Medical clearance

Answer: Medical clearance

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can I qualify mini facelift & rhinoplasty if I am on immunotherapy following a kidney transplant?

Answers (4)

Answer: Medical clearance

Answer: Medical clearance

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.