IMPACT OF RECONSTRUCTIVE PLASTIC SURGERY IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS SEQUELAE: A DERMATOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Introduction: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation, affecting multiple organs and often resulting in significant dermatological sequelae, such as skin lesions, scars and pigmentary changes. These sequelae not only compromise aesthetics, but also have a profound psychological impact on patients' quality of life. Reconstructive plastic surgery has emerged as a potentially transformative intervention, promoting the restoration of skin function and appearance. Although there is a growing acceptance of these interventions, there are still gaps in understanding the real effects of reconstructive plastic surgery in patients with SLE, especially from a dermatological perspective. Objective: To analyze the impact of reconstructive plastic surgery in patients with sequelae of systemic lupus erythematosus, addressing clinical, psychological and social aspects, as well as best practices and associated outcomes. Methodology: The methodology followed the PRISMA checklist, searching the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases using five descriptors: "systemic lupus erythematosus", "plastic surgery", "reconstruction", "sequelae" and "dermatology". The inclusion criteria were: articles published in the last ten years, studies focused on reconstructive plastic surgery in patients with SLE and research evaluating clinical results. The exclusion criteria included: non-peer-reviewed articles, studies that did not directly address SLE and reviews or commentaries that did not present original data. Results: The results indicated that reconstructive plastic surgery provided significant improvements in the aesthetic appearance, self-esteem and quality of life of patients. Studies revealed that interventions such as skin grafts and surgical closure techniques improved scars and lesions, with a low rate of complications. In addition, the emotional recovery of patients was often associated with the normalization of body image, demonstrating the importance of surgical treatment in the dermatological context of SLE. Conclusion: Reconstructive plastic surgery has been shown to be an effective alternative for aesthetic and functional recovery in patients with sequelae of systemic lupus erythematosus. The findings highlighted not only the clinical benefits, but also the positive impact on mental health and quality of life, emphasizing the relevance of a multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of these patients.