Whether or not you can have breast fat transfer if you have a history of autoimmune diseases depends on the specific type of autoimmune disease you have and how well it is controlled. In general, people with autoimmune diseases are at an increased risk of complications from surgery, including infection, bleeding, and delayed healing. They are also at an increased risk of developing new autoimmune diseases.

If you are considering breast fat transfer and you have a history of autoimmune diseases, you should talk to your doctor or a plastic surgeon about the risks and benefits of the procedure. They will be able to assess your individual risk factors and make a recommendation about whether or not the procedure is right for you.

Here are some specific considerations for people with autoimmune diseases who are considering breast fat transfer:

  • The type of autoimmune disease you have. Some autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are more likely to cause complications after surgery than others.
  • How well your autoimmune disease is controlled. If your autoimmune disease is well-controlled, you may be at a lower risk of complications.
  • The medications you take for your autoimmune disease. Some medications, such as steroids, can increase your risk of complications after surgery.
  • Your overall health. If you have other health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, you may be at an increased risk of complications after surgery.

If you decide to have breast fat transfer, it is important to find a plastic surgeon who is experienced in working with people with autoimmune diseases. They will be able to take your individual risk factors into account and make sure that you receive the best possible care.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

  • The American Society of Plastic Surgeons: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/fat-transfer-breast-augmentation/safety
  • The American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association: https://www.aarda.org/
  • The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/autoimmune-diseases

If you have a history of autoimmune diseases, the decision to undergo breast fat transfer should be made in consultation with both your plastic surgeon and your primary healthcare provider or specialist who manages your autoimmune condition. Autoimmune diseases involve an overactive immune system that attacks the body’s own tissues, and it’s essential to consider how this may impact your eligibility and safety for elective procedures like breast fat transfer.

Some common autoimmune diseases include:

  1. Rheumatoid Arthritis
  2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
  3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
  5. Psoriasis
  6. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

During the consultation with your plastic surgeon, be sure to disclose your medical history, including any diagnosed autoimmune conditions and the medications you may be taking to manage them. Your surgeon will work closely with your healthcare provider to assess the potential risks and benefits of breast fat transfer based on your specific autoimmune condition and its current status.

Here are some important considerations:

  1. Disease Activity and Medications: The stability of your autoimmune condition and the medications you are taking to manage it will be important factors to consider. Uncontrolled or active autoimmune disease may increase the risk of complications and negatively affect wound healing.
  2. Immune Response and Healing: Since breast fat transfer involves manipulating the body’s tissues and the immune response, individuals with certain autoimmune conditions may have a higher risk of complications or impaired healing. Your plastic surgeon will assess whether your immune system is strong enough to tolerate the procedure.
  3. Medications and Anesthesia: Some medications used to manage autoimmune conditions may interact with anesthesia or increase the risk of bleeding. It’s essential to provide a comprehensive list of medications to both your surgeon and anesthesiologist to ensure your safety during the procedure.
  4. Post-Operative Risks: Autoimmune diseases can affect the body’s response to surgery and increase the risk of infections and delayed healing. Your surgeon will provide guidance on post-operative care and any additional precautions you may need to take during your recovery.
  5. Individualized Approach: Your treatment plan should be tailored to your specific health needs and medical history. Your healthcare team will consider factors such as the type of autoimmune disease you have, its severity, and how well it is managed.

Ultimately, the decision to proceed with breast fat transfer will depend on a thorough evaluation of your medical history, current health status, and the collective expertise of your plastic surgeon and healthcare provider managing your autoimmune condition. If your healthcare team determines that the risks are manageable and your health allows for the procedure, they will work together to create a safe and individualized treatment plan. If there are concerns about the risks, they may explore alternative options to address your aesthetic goals that are more suitable for your health condition.