The short answer is no. You should not wear makeup or eye cream of any kind for at least 24 hours before surgery and then up to two weeks after surgery. If you wear lash extensions, those will have to be removed and not replaced for two months once the surgery is complete. Here is everything you need to know to prepare for surgery and photo-refractive keratectomy or PRK.

Preparing for Laser Eye Surgery

Before getting eye surgery, you will set up a consultation with your doctor. To get an authentic feel for your eye and surrounding conditions, it is a good idea not to have makeup or cream around your eyes during the consultation. If you must wear makeup, keep it minimal.

You can expect different tests to determine what your eyes will need, and makeup, creams, and residues can affect the outcomes. You should not wear contact lenses at least a week before your consultation. If you have any questions about makeup, creams, or contact lenses, always ask your doctor at least two weeks out if they have a different policy.

During Laser Eye Surgery

You should avoid using makeup, foundations, creams, eyeliners, mascara, eyeshadow, or anything else during surgery. You should stop wearing anything on the day of your treatment and for the preceding 24 hours, as any residues can affect surgical outcomes.

Do not wear any colognes, perfumes, aftershaves, or anything else resembling any of those things, as the scents can irritate your eyes while in surgery. The same thing goes for lotions and moisturizers. Vapors from scented items can also cause laser interference during surgery.

After Laser Eye Surgery

You should not have anything that can irritate your eyes after surgery because they need time to heal correctly. That means no mascara of any kind, no eyeshadow, and no eyeliner. You cannot wear or use anything that will irritate your eyes for as long as your doctor tells you.

As for foundations and creams, you can use them after getting approval from your doctor. Scented creams or moisturizers are out until your doctor gives you the okay. They are likely to irritate your eyes.

Powders should also be avoided until your doctor tells you otherwise. If you accidentally get powder in your eyes, it will irritate them and cause issues. You will also want to purchase a new set of makeup tools after surgery to prevent any infection from bacteria on older devices.

Getting Permission

When you can wear makeup or use creams and moisturizers, be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions strictly. Gently apply and remove makeup as your eyes will be sensitive. Facial creams and moisturizers also need to be gently applied. You should avoid the eyelid areas until your doctor tells you that you are free to resume your routine.

For any questions or concerns, always ask your doctor before undergoing eye surgery. Give Laser Vision Delaware a call at 302-656-2020 with any questions or book a consultation at our office in Wilmington, Delaware.