People with allergic conditions such as eczema, asthma, and hay fever may face higher risks of complications following certain surgeries, according to two studies that will be presented at the 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI). The research indicates that inflammation and immune system changes associated with these conditions can make it harder for the body to heal and may increase the risk of infection after surgery.
One study reviewed more than 20,000 women who underwent breast reconstruction after cancer surgery. It found that those with eczema, dermatitis, or other allergic skin diseases were more likely to experience complications with their breast implants—including infections, capsular contracture (buildup of scar tissue), and implant rupture—compared to women without these conditions. Over a three-year period after surgery, patients with atopic (allergic) skin disease were also more likely to require implant removal or additional surgeries.
“People with eczema or similar skin conditions already have more sensitive skin and a higher level of inflammation,” said Philong Nguyen, BS, lead author of the study. “That seems to make surgical healing harder and increases the risk of infection.”
A second study by some of the same researchers analyzed data from over 38,000 adults who had undergone bone graft surgery. Those with allergic conditions like eczema, asthma, or hay fever had higher rates of infection, bone inflammation (osteomyelitis), and were more likely to need additional surgeries for implant removal or replacement. Even two years after initial surgery, people with atopic conditions remained at greater risk for issues such as infections or loosening of implants.
“These findings suggest that allergic conditions can affect the body’s ability to heal after surgery—not just in the skin but also in bones,” said Joshua Wang, MS, lead author of the second study.
The authors from both studies note that knowing about this increased risk can help guide preoperative counseling and encourage closer postoperative monitoring for these patients.
The ACAAI is a professional medical organization representing over 6,000 allergist-immunologists and healthcare professionals based in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Founded in 1942, it focuses on patient care, education, advocacy, and research related to allergies and asthma. For more information on diagnosis and treatment options for allergic conditions or to find an allergist nearby, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org.
