Can I get breast implants if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Hello, I am personally unaware of contraindication of breast implants specifically to rheumatoid arthritis, we have had patients who had breast implants in the past with RA or later was diagnosed with RA and did not have any issues. But every patient is different and all treatments should be tailored to each person so it is best for you to check with your rheumatologist to see if there are any specific contraindication in your case to have breast implants.

Many investigations have shown that either silicone or saline implants probably don't change the course of rheumatoid arthritis at all.

Dear privatehealth23,
as long as your RA is well controlled, you can be candidate for surgery. You will need to get clearance from your doctor prior to surgery. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I would check with your rheumatologist before proceeding. I have definitely done breast implants on patients with autoimmune issues such as RA, but I proceed with the rheumatologist's agreement. The specific implant company the doctor uses typically have a medical info line for patients to talk over more specific studies on specific issues like yours. All the best!!

I advise my patients to check with their rheumatologist to see if they have any concerns. If the rheumatologist is supportive, I proceed with surgery. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

While having rheumatoid arthritis (RA) doesn't necessarily disqualify you from getting breast implants, it's crucial to discuss this condition thoroughly with both your rheumatologist and a board-certified plastic surgeon before proceeding. As with any surgery, there are considerations for individuals with RA:

RA and some medications used for its management may potentially increase the risk of complications post-surgery, such as infection or delayed wound healing.

Ultimately, the decision to proceed with breast implants should be made with careful consideration of your overall health and in consultation with both your rheumatologist and plastic surgeon. Their expertise will help evaluate the risks and benefits based on your individual circumstances, ensuring your safety and the best possible outcome.

I so preciate your concerns, and depending on the exact details of your rheumatoid arthritis, you should be able to safely undergo breast augmentation surgery. Your first step should be consultation with your rheumatologist, and if cleared, then seek the opinion of a board certified plastic surgeon. I have successfully performed breast augmentation on patients with rheumatoid arthritis and other collagen, vascular diseases. Come see me or another board-certified plastic surgeon in our area after discussing this plan with your rheumatologist. Best of luck.

The decision to get breast implants, especially if you have a medical condition like rheumatoid arthritis, should be made in consultation with your healthcare team. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. It's crucial to consider your overall health, the severity of your rheumatoid arthritis, and the potential impact of surgery on your condition.Before undergoing any elective surgery, including breast augmentation, it's important to discuss your medical history and current health status with both your rheumatologist and your plastic surgeon who would perform the procedure. They can assess the potential risks and benefits based on your individual situation.Factors to consider may include the current status of your rheumatoid arthritis, any medications you are taking, and how well your symptoms are controlled. Surgical procedures can pose challenges for individuals with autoimmune disorders, as they may affect the immune system and healing processes.Your healthcare providers will consider whether the benefits of breast implants outweigh the potential risks for you. It's also essential to have realistic expectations about the recovery process and potential impact on your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team and ensure that they are aware of all your medical conditions and medications. They can provide guidance based on your specific health circumstances and help you make an informed decision about whether breast augmentation is a suitable option for you.

The answer is that it depends. It's best to begin by discussing your interest in breast augmentation with your rheumatologist. If you receive clearance and your symptoms are in good control you can then meet with a board certified plastic surgeon to learn more about the procedure. Make sure you discuss all of the medications you take for your RA.

If you are medically stable enough to have elective surgery, then you should be able to have a breast augmentation. If you have any medical concerns, please discuss them with your medical doctor.