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Home / Ask the Expert / RA and surgery

RA and surgery

June 16, 2009 By Arthritis Center

Question

I have had RA for a little over a year, I’m not on humira yet.. I was wanting to know if it’s ok to breast implants while having RA?

Answer

Hi Anna,

There is no specific contraindication to having breast implant surgery, or any other surgery, while on treatment for RA.  However, some medications should be stopped prior to surgery, and for some period after surgery.  GEnerally, we rheumatologists don’t recommend stopping methotrexate, but some surgeons still insist on this.  Definitely, the biologic drugs should be stopped prior to surgery (these include Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, Orencia, Rituximab), some as little as two weeks, others as much as eight weeks prior to surgery.  You should discuss this issue with your rheumatologist for recommendations specific for your case.

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