Can I Leave my Eyelash Extensions on During Tummy Tuck?

Dear Diana,

It's natural to have concerns about various aspects of surgery, including what is safe to leave on during the procedure. While eyelash extensions may seem harmless, it's essential to consider all factors, including potential risks and the comfort of the surgical team.

During surgery, it's standard protocol for patients to remove all makeup, jewelry, and accessories. This includes eyelash extensions. There are several reasons for this precaution:

Safety during surgery: Eyelash extensions, like other cosmetic enhancements, can potentially interfere with the surgical process. They may obscure the eyes or create barriers that hinder the surgical team's ability to monitor vital signs or respond quickly if needed.

Risk of contamination: Eyelash extensions can harbor bacteria or other contaminants, which could increase the risk of infection during surgery, particularly if they come into contact with surgical instruments or the surgical site.

Patient comfort: Removing eyelash extensions ensures that your eyes are free from any foreign material during surgery, promoting comfort and minimizing the risk of irritation or discomfort.

While it may be inconvenient to remove your eyelash extensions before surgery, it's an important step in ensuring your safety and the success of the procedure. Your surgical team will provide specific instructions on preoperative preparations, including what you should and shouldn't wear or bring to the surgical facility.

If you have any concerns or questions about preoperative instructions, don't hesitate to discuss them with your plastic surgeon or their medical team. They are there to address your concerns and ensure that you have a safe and successful surgical experience.

Wishing you all the best for your upcoming tummy tuck procedure and a smooth recovery.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen
Plastic Surgeon

Hi there-
Leaving your extensions in place should not present a problem for your surgeon or the anesthesia personnel, or compromise your safety.
It is important for you to know, however, that in order to protect your eyes during the surgery, it is common practice to tape your eyelids closed, and it is very difficult to do this without the tape contacting your eyelashes here or there- and when the tape is removed, it is possible that s few of your extensions may come with it...
I have many patients who have surgery with extensions in place and usually there is no problem, but every now and then a few are lost and you may need to see your provider for a touch up of the extensions.

I think it's fine to keep your eyelash extensions in place. Just make sure you tell the anesthesiologist that you have them so they can be careful. All patients have their eyes "taped" closed for protection during any surgery, this is done by the anesthesiologist. There is a chance that in doing so the extensions may be damaged. As long as you are aware of that -- it's up to you. If you feel better about removing them prior to the surgery, that is ok too.
I would also recommend you consider or take a look at Latisse which is a new FDA approved drop that facilitates natural eyelash growth and length obviating the need for eyelash extensions. It causes the eyelash hairs to thicked and lengthen and results are seen typically within 4 to 6 weeks.
Hope this helps!