I'm considering a tummy tuck but I'm very scared to do so because i have Anklosing Spondylitis . I have not started any biologic yet . I just take naproxen and tizandine . Is someone with an autoimmune disorder a good candidate for surgery / tummy tuck
Having ankylosing spondilitis does not bar you from having a tummy tuck. You would need to talk to your rheumatologist regarding this surgery and receive his or her okay for going through with the procedure. Most plastic surgeons ask you to discontinue your Naproxyn prior to surgery because one of the side effects of NSAIDs is increased bruising and risk of bleeding causing a hematoma (a collection of blood in the wound that might require further surgery). After a tummy tuck, many women have to walk a bit hunched over for a few days, which can result in low back pain. On the positive side, people with autoimmune disorders often end up with better scars than the general population. Consult with an ASPS member surgeon to see if you are a safe candidate for this surgery.
Yes you can still be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if your rheumatologist agrees and they work closely with your plastic surgeon to prepare you. Medications like Naproxen (NSAID) need to be stopped temporarily as they are blood thinners. Other medications that treat your autoimmune disorder may interfere with your wound healing ability and need to be stopped temporarily as well. I would encourage you to speak to your rheumatologist, then find a plastic surgeon you have confidence in. Lots of pre planning will result in a smooth post operative course. Good luck to you.
Hi. I would recommend you not to undergo a plastic surgery procedure, since it is an elective surgery unnecessary for your health and wellbeing. You are even taking blood thinner therapy for your condition which must be stopped for surgery, and this disease increases your risks and complications during and after surgery, at a short or long term.
Thank you for sharing your excellent question. You may need tailoring of your medications during the recovery process but by itself, AS does not prevent you from obtaining surgery.
Follow the recommendations of your Rheumatologist and the Board Certified Plastic Surgeon you choose, but a person with an autoimmune disorder does not deny you an elective procedure.
You would need to consult with your rheumatologist and get clearance.
Dr. Edward Jonas Domanskis is Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Newport Beach, San Francisco,Miami, EU, Anguilla
Assistant Clinical Professor of SurgeryWOS-Plastic,University of California (Irvine)
Orange County’s Physician of Excellence/America’s Top Physicians/Top Doctors
Plastic Surgery- 2005-2018
President,American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons
Organoderm Skin care/ScaRxTape