Does the acrylic on my nails have to be removed before breast augmentation?

Question

I am scheduled to have my breast augmentation at the end of this month. My preoperative appointment is next week. I've read alot about preparing for surgery. A few things I read mentioned removing fingernail Polish before surgery. I get my nails done biweekly and have acrylic put on them. Do I need to remove the acrylic also before surgery?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Because the tip of the finger is used to measure your oxygen saturation while asleep, it would be best to have at least one nail without acrylic so that the anesthesiologist can appropriately monitor your health during surgery.  Hope this helps.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Yes, acrylic nails and polish can interfere with reading your pulse and oxygen during surgery. Most Surgical centres and hospitals will require that you have them removed. I recommend that you discuss this with your Plastic Surgeon to be prepared.All the best

Jeffrey D. Wagner, MD · Answer

Your anesthesiologist will want to monitor your oxygen saturation during surgery.  Typically, a finger probe is used, and acrylic painted nails won't allow this monitor to work.  However,  often a toe or earlobe monitor can be applied instead.  I recommend you discuss with your anesthesiologist before the day of surgery.

Eric Schaffer, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a great question as many women now have beautiful manicured nails.  Please contact your surgeons office and clarify with them as there are different rules for different facilities.  Have a great surgery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is best if you have the acrylic removed.  During surgery you will be monitored for your safety.  One of the tools used is a pulse oximeter which sometimes can't read properly when acrylic nails are present.  Also, your nail beds are monitored for proper color and capillary refill.

Does the acrylic on my nails have to be removed before breast augmentation?

Answers (8)

Answer: Acrylic nails and surgery

Answer: Acrylic nails and surgery

Answer: Acrylic nails

Answer: Acrylic nails

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Does the acrylic on my nails have to be removed before breast augmentation?

Answers (8)

Answer: Acrylic nails and surgery

Answer: Acrylic nails and surgery

Answer: Acrylic nails

Answer: Acrylic nails

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.