As we age, the appeal to erase fine lines, remove wrinkles, and lift areas of the body becomes all the more attractive. For most who undergo cosmetic procedures to look younger, the positives far outweigh the concerns about side effects. If you, however, suffer from psoriasis there are a few things to be made aware of before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Talk to a dermatologist at The Derm Group who specializes in psoriasis and who is up-to-date on the most recent clinical studies.
If you have psoriasis on your face and body, you may want to think twice before getting any cosmetic injections or aesthetic services. Whether you want BOTOX for your glabellar lines, lip filler, microneedling, or want to smooth those number 11 lines, cosmetic treatments for psoriasis sufferers can have a noticeable side effect. The same rings true for those looking for more involved plastic surgeries. Patients seeking breast implants and reductions, tummy tucks, and mommy makeovers, among others, need to consider their psoriasis first. Enter the Koebner phenomenon.
Psoriasis and the Koebner Phenomenon
The Koebner phenomenon was named for the dermatologist who first observed this condition in the 19th century. He noticed that some people with psoriasis would develop lesions, and sometimes infections, in areas where the skin was traumatized. That includes anything from cuts and injuries to small scratches and pin pricks. It can also include parts of the body that can get really irritated on a regular basis—think about where your bra strap or belt buckle rubs all day.
So, when we are considering anything from the prick of a simple lip filler injection to the healing scars of breast reconstruction surgery, there is a real risk of causing this Koebner phenomenon to kick it into high gear.
For those who do suffer from the Koebner phenomenon, there’s also a chance it could lead to psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune disease. The overactive immune system people with psoriasis suffer from can extend to the joints—unlike osteoarthritis, which is from wear and tear. This can cause pain and inflammation in the joints.
Treating Koebner Phenomenon Symptoms
To treat psoriatic arthritis, a dermatologist might prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or immune suppressant drugs. For skin lesions caused by Koebner phenomenon, a derm might recommend UV light therapy, oral medications or topical medications.
To talk to a board-certified dermatologist about your psoriasis, schedule an appointment at The Derm Group online or by calling 973.571.2121.