Most surgery centers ask patients to arrive with clean skin and without makeup, jewelry, or other personal items. While these instructions may seem minor, they help your surgical team monitor you safely and reduce the risk of complications.
Quick Summary
Before surgery, you'll usually be asked to:
- Remove all jewelry and body piercings.
- Avoid makeup, lotions, creams, and perfumes.
- Remove nail polish from at least one finger if instructed.
- Wear glasses instead of contact lenses.
- Follow any additional instructions provided by your surgeon or surgery center.
If you're unsure about a specific item, it's always best to ask your surgical team before the day of surgery.
For a complete overview of how to get ready, see How to Prepare for Surgery.
Why Are These Restrictions Important?
Many pre-surgery instructions are designed to make surgery safer and help your care team monitor you throughout your procedure.
Some items can interfere with medical equipment, while others may increase the risk of infection or make it more difficult for providers to assess how you're doing during surgery.
Can I Wear Makeup?
It's generally best to avoid wearing makeup on the day of surgery.
Foundation, concealer, lipstick, and heavy eye makeup can make it harder for your healthcare team to evaluate your skin color and circulation before, during, and after your procedure.
Arriving with a clean face also makes it easier to place tape, oxygen equipment, or other monitoring devices if needed.
Can I Wear Lotion, Cream, or Perfume?
Most surgery centers recommend avoiding:
- Lotions
- Moisturizers
- Body oils
- Perfume or cologne
- Heavy deodorants (if instructed)
These products can interfere with skin preparation, adhesive monitoring equipment, or surgical dressings.
Showering beforehand with clean skin—using any special soap your surgeon recommends—is usually the best approach.
Can I Wear Nail Polish?
Many patients are asked to remove nail polish from at least one fingernail before surgery.
During surgery, a pulse oximeter is often placed on your finger to monitor your oxygen level. While many modern monitors can work through some nail polish, removing it helps ensure the most accurate readings.
If you wear acrylic or gel nails, ask your surgeon whether they need to be removed before your procedure.
Can I Wear Jewelry?
It's best to leave all jewelry at home.
This includes:
- Rings
- Earrings
- Necklaces
- Bracelets
- Watches
- Body piercings
Jewelry can interfere with surgery, become difficult to remove if swelling occurs, or present safety concerns when certain surgical equipment is used.
If you cannot remove a ring or piercing, let your surgical team know before your procedure.
Can I Wear Contact Lenses?
Most patients should wear glasses instead of contact lenses on the day of surgery.
Contact lenses are usually removed before surgery to help protect your eyes while you're asleep.
Bring a case for your contacts if needed, or wear your glasses instead.
What If I Forget?
If you accidentally arrive wearing makeup, jewelry, lotion, or nail polish, don't panic.
Tell your surgical team when you check in. In many cases, these items can simply be removed before surgery. Avoid canceling or delaying your procedure without first speaking with your care team.
Knowing What to Expect on Surgery Day can help reduce stress and avoid last minute surprises.
The Bottom Line
Following these simple instructions helps your surgical team provide the safest possible care. Every surgery center has slightly different requirements, so always follow the instructions you receive from your surgeon or pre-operative team.
When you're unsure, asking ahead of time is always better than guessing.
For a complete checklist before you procedure, review the Surgery Preparation Checklist - Free PDF.
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