Whether or not you can have breast implants if you have a history of autoimmune diseases is a question that can be best answered by a medical professional. There are a few factors that your doctor will consider when making a decision, including the type of autoimmune disease you have, the severity of your disease, and your overall health.

In general, people with autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop complications after breast implant surgery. This is because autoimmune diseases can affect the immune system, which can make it more difficult for the body to accept the implants. Some of the potential complications that people with autoimmune diseases may be at increased risk for include:

  • Breast implant illness (BII): BII is a collection of symptoms that may be related to breast implants. These symptoms can include fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and rash. BII is more common in people with autoimmune diseases.
  • Ruptured implants: Implants can rupture for a variety of reasons, including trauma, infection, or wear and tear. People with autoimmune diseases may be at increased risk for ruptured implants because their immune systems may make it more difficult for the implants to heal properly.
  • Infection: Infection is a risk with any surgery, but it is a more serious risk for people with autoimmune diseases. This is because their immune systems may not be able to fight off infection as effectively.

If you are considering breast implant surgery and you have a history of autoimmune diseases, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of surgery. Your doctor will be able to help you decide if breast implant surgery is right for you.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

  • The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/
  • The American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA) website: https://www.aarda.org/
  • The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) website: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/autoimmune-diseases

If you have a history of autoimmune diseases, the decision to have breast implants should be approached with caution and in consultation with both your plastic surgeon and your rheumatologist or autoimmune disease specialist. Autoimmune diseases can impact the body’s immune system, and it’s essential to ensure that breast implant surgery is safe and appropriate for you, taking into account both your physical health and the potential impact on your autoimmune condition.

Some autoimmune diseases that may need to be evaluated before considering breast implant surgery include:

  1. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing pain and inflammation. Surgery may need to be carefully planned to minimize the impact on affected joints and avoid potential flare-ups.
  2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and systems in the body. Surgery may need to be coordinated with lupus management to minimize the risk of exacerbating symptoms.
  3. Sjögren’s Syndrome: Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the moisture-producing glands, leading to dryness of the eyes and mouth. Surgery may need to consider potential issues related to dryness.
  4. Psoriasis or Psoriatic Arthritis: Psoriasis is a skin condition, and psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints. Surgery may need to consider skin health and joint involvement.
  5. Other Autoimmune Conditions: Various other autoimmune diseases can impact the immune system and overall health. Each condition should be carefully evaluated before surgery.

Your plastic surgeon will need to assess your overall health, including the management and control of your autoimmune disease, before proceeding with breast implant surgery. They may request a consultation with your rheumatologist or autoimmune disease specialist to ensure that the procedure is safe for you.

It’s essential to discuss your medical history, including your autoimmune condition, with your plastic surgeon openly. They will consider your specific health status and any potential risks associated with breast implant surgery.

In some cases, your surgeon may recommend postponing breast implant surgery until your autoimmune condition is stable and well-managed. Alternatively, they may suggest specific precautions or modifications to the surgical approach to minimize the impact on your autoimmune condition.

The ultimate goal is to prioritize your safety and well-being, both physically and in managing any potential effects on your autoimmune disease. Working closely with your healthcare providers, including both your plastic surgeon and autoimmune disease specialist, can help ensure that breast implant surgery is approached in a way that considers your individual health needs and concerns.