Whether or not you can have phalloplasty if you have a history of autoimmune diseases depends on the specific autoimmune disease you have and how well it is controlled. Some autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can increase your risk of complications from surgery. Other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, may not have as much of an impact on your risk of complications.

It is important to talk to your surgeon about your history of autoimmune diseases before deciding whether or not to have phalloplasty. Your surgeon will be able to assess your individual risk factors and help you make the best decision for yourself.

Here are some of the autoimmune diseases that may increase your risk of complications from phalloplasty:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis: This is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect the joints, skin, and other organs. Rheumatoid arthritis can increase your risk of complications from surgery, such as infection and bleeding.
  • Lupus: This is an autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, and other organs. Lupus can increase your risk of complications from surgery, such as infection and blood clots.
  • Scleroderma: This is an autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, and other organs. Scleroderma can increase your risk of complications from surgery, such as wound healing problems and infection.

If you have a history of autoimmune diseases, it is important to talk to your doctor about how well your disease is controlled. If your disease is not well-controlled, you may need to wait until it is under control before having phalloplasty.

It is also important to talk to your surgeon about the specific risks of phalloplasty for people with autoimmune diseases. Your surgeon will be able to give you more information about the risks and benefits of phalloplasty for your individual situation.

Having a history of autoimmune diseases does not necessarily preclude you from undergoing phalloplasty. However, it is important to evaluate your specific case in consultation with your healthcare team, including your surgeon and any relevant specialists.

Autoimmune diseases involve an overactive immune response, which can affect various organs and systems in the body. These conditions may potentially impact the surgical and healing processes, as well as the management of the underlying autoimmune condition itself.

Your healthcare team will assess the specific autoimmune disease you have, its severity, stability, and any potential risks or challenges it may pose during and after phalloplasty. They will evaluate your overall health and work with you to ensure that your autoimmune disease is properly managed before, during, and after the surgery.

It is crucial to have open and ongoing communication with your healthcare team about your autoimmune disease, including any treatments, medications, and management strategies you currently use. They will work with you to develop a comprehensive care plan that takes your autoimmune condition into account and maximizes your chances of a successful outcome.

In some cases, additional pre-operative assessments, consultations, or multidisciplinary approaches may be recommended to ensure that your autoimmune condition is adequately managed before and after phalloplasty. These measures may include coordinating with your rheumatologist or other specialists to optimize disease management, adjusting medications as needed, and closely monitoring your immune system during the surgical and healing processes.

Ultimately, the decision to proceed with phalloplasty will depend on a thorough evaluation of your overall health, including the management and stability of your autoimmune disease, and a careful assessment of the potential risks and benefits. Your healthcare team will guide you through this process, considering your individual circumstances and ensuring that your safety, well-being, and surgical outcomes are prioritized.