Can I do a lipo, lipectomy and breast augmentation with my own fat if I have Lupus?

Question

I was diagnosed with Lupus 9yrs ago. I have been on Hydroxychloroquine since then, but haven't had any problems. I want to know if I can do a lipo, lipectomy and breast augmentation with my own fat?

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

If you have Lupus which is active, I would postpone your surgery until your condition is in remission. Also, if you are taking high doses of steroid medication, that can have an adverse affect on your body accepting the fat.

Christine Fisher, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. Your lupus should not interfere with your ability to use fat grafting for a breast augmentation. However, your lupus may inhibit your ability to undergo surgical procedures, even minimally invasive ones like liposuction. Immunocompromised individuals are at a much higher risk for complications like infection or poor healing. You will first need clearance from the doctor who is treating your lupus. Then, you will need to work closely with both your specialist and your plastic surgeon to ensure that your lupus is well-controlled, that your medications will not interfere with your surgery and that there are no other lifestyle factors that may prevent you from being a candidate for these procedures.
I recommend speaking with your specialist first to determine if they believe you are healthy enough for cosmetic surgery. Then, you should schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon with demonstrated experience in liposuction and fat transfer augmentations to determine if you can safely achieve your aesthetic goals with these procedures. Good luck!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

To ensure your safety during surgery and recovery, your PS will likely want medical clearance from your specialist before performing the lipo, breast augmentation, and lipectomy.  
Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear alva14,
as long as your Lupus is under control, you might be a candidate for a surgery. Patients which use corticosteroids for a longer period of time can have healing issues. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

John LoMonaco, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like your disease is well controlled on minimal medications.  While each case is different, you should have no problems undergoing and healing well from the surgery you mention. Your plastic surgeon may request a clearance from your rheumatologist.

Can I do a lipo, lipectomy and breast augmentation with my own fat if I have Lupus?

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Can I do a lipo, lipectomy and breast augmentation with my own fat if I have Lupus?

Answers (10)

Answer: Lupus and surgery

Answer: Lupus and surgery

Answer: Plastic Surgery and Lupus

Answer: Plastic Surgery and Lupus

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Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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