Thoughts on Tummy tuck surgery while taking Remicade for arthritis? Should it be skipped before/after surgery to help w healing?

Question

I was on Otezla for a year. I stopped & started Remicade. I have only had one infusion last month. I am due tomorrow for my next dose. I canceled it until after surgery. I am scheduled for a tummy tuck October 20. I thought this would be best for the healing process? Not sure when to make my next remicade apt? The dr told me to ask the Plastic Surgeon about healing. I don't have my Pre Op until the 5th, which is 2 weeks before my surgery. Can I take remicade before/after a tummy tuck? healing?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

the major concern with Remicade would be if it causes bleeding like other arthritis medicines, including Aspirin.  I looked up information on Remicade with shows it does not cause bleeding.  However, if you can skip a dose without a problem, you might want to play it safe and skip a dose.  Get advice from your surgeon and rheumatologist first.

Scott C. Sattler, MD, FACS · Answer

I've done body contouring procedures for patients on Remicade and have not encountered any problems with wound healing or scar quality. I worked closely with the patient's prescribing physicians to coordinate Remicade dosing that would be most advantageous for wound healing.

Robert S. Houser, DO · Answer

I have had the opposite experience with Remicade.  I have had some healing issues in patients who were otherwise great tummy tuck candidates -- they were thin and had never smoked.  It was nothing disastrous, but I think you'll heal a lot faster with fewer issues if you skip a dose or 2. I would have skipped this dose and not consider another until about a month after surgery if everything is healing ok.  Please let us know how you do!  Good luck!

Thoughts on Tummy tuck surgery while taking Remicade for arthritis? Should it be skipped before/after surgery to help w healing?

Answers (3)