Can a person with rheumatoid arthritis have a cosmetic surgery?

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis can benefit from breast reduction. The overall health of the patient needs to be assessed as well as the influence medication may have on the healing process. This will be discussed with you by your plastic surgeon.

Rheumatoid arthritis itself is not a contraindication to a breast reduction but many of the medications that you may be taking may be more problematic.  Some medications cause increased bleeding.  Check with your rheumatologist prior to considering the surgery.  

You can have surgery, but may need to come off of certain medications if they cause potential for wound healing problems. Your rheumatologist will likely need to provide clearance or recommendations for your medications around the time of surgery. If you go off certain meds, you may have a flare up of your RA. Meet with a board certified plastic surgeon to help assess the risk benefit ratio. Good luck!

Rheumatoid arthritis is a terrible disease but it doesn't mean you can't safely have needed surgery, including breast reduction. I suggest that you visit your internist first for a medical clearance then you can schedule a plastic surgery consult with a medical clearance in hand. It's a wonderful operation with a high reliability and high patient satisfaction level.