Can I have eyelash extensions during a lower eyelid surgery?

Question

I know it seems like a dumb question but I was wondering if you’re allowed to have lash extensions for a lower eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty)? I’m going on vacation right before my surgery so I was wondering if I have to remove the lash extensions right away like prior to my surgery or if it’s OK to have during my surgery since the surgery is on my lower eyelids.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! Each surgeon can vary with requirements prior to surgery but it's best to have eyelash extensions removed prior to surgery.

Anna Bakeman, MD · Answer

Generally if surgeons can work around the extensions with the understanding that some of the extensions could potentially get displaced during surgery. There are multiple approaches to lower lid surgery (through the skin or under the lid itself), so depending on the type of surgery you are having it's best to confirm with your surgeon in case they have specific preferences

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

Yes technically you can, but we prefer that you do not. Extensions tend to become entagled in sutures and also we worry about infection as well. So I definitely tell my patients to remove them, but it definitely doesn't rule you out for the operation.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

We ask women to remove eyelash extensions before any surgery involving general anesthetic. Sometimes one or more can dislodge, and get into the eyeball, and cause a corneal abrasion. Thank you for this excellent question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Many thanks for participating in the RealSelf community and for your question.  The most authoritative answer will be forthcoming from your Blepharoplasty surgeon's office.  Transconjunctival procedures and open procedures differ.  How important to you is your blepharoplasty result vs. maintaining your lashes?  Long lashes may interfere with surgeon's view of your detailed anatomy.  Extensions may be damaged during the procedure, or may contaminate the surgical field because they're impossible to completely sterilize.  If lashes are important, maybe reschedule procedure.  These are factors very specific to your situation and the type of blepharoplasty your surgeon is planning, so a phone call to the doctor is in order.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

How are they doing the lower lid surgery? If it is "transconjunctival", on the inside of the lids, it may be less of an issue. If it is on the outside it is more in the way. I've done these both ways in people with lash extensions and it is doable, but...  it makes it harder for the surgeon and there is a good chance some of the lash extensions fall off anyway.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

The simple answer is yes, you can, but the Surgeon will generally prefer that you do not.  Extensions tend to become entagled in sutures etc.  So I would prefer that you don't have them, but it doesn't rule you out for surgery.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

No, you may not have eyelash extensions prior to surgery due to the risk of infections. Those extensions are full of bacteria. Please follow your surgeon's instructions.

Can I have eyelash extensions during a lower eyelid surgery?

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