I Have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Am Taking Actemra Via IV Once a Month. I Am Considering Plastic Surgery?

Dear Moennich,

Thank you for your question. Yes, unfortunately these types of medications are designed to suppress the immune system and also have an effect on wound healing.  This put you at higher risk.  However, a mini-facelift is less invasive.  Care need to be taken to time your surgery around the infusions and your plastic surgery and internist need to talk about this.

Best Wishes,

Pablo Prichard, MD

Actemra can have serious potential for affecting and healing and increased risk for infection in the post-operative period.

Your surgeon and rheumatologist need to work closely together if you are planning on proceeding with the Mini Lift in light of the risks with Actemra. They may consider timing your surgery around the IV infusions and using prophylactic antibiotics.

At any rate your overall health and safety come first when it comes to deciding on undergoing any elective surgery.

All the best,

Dr. J