Why Do I Have to Remove Jewelry for Plastic Surgery?
Dr. Paul Angelchik is a Phoenix plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Angelchik is well-trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, namely breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation. He has been serving patients for over 20 years. Dr. Angelchik brings his surgical experience, expertise, and quality care to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona.
Getting ready for your surgery date can be exciting and stressful all at once. As you review your pre-op instructions, you’ll likely come across instructions to take off any jewelry and piercings before surgery. It may seem needless or even difficult to consider removing your favorite pieces, but it’s an important step in the safety and success of your procedure. Here’s what to know about removing your jewelry before surgery and why Dr. Angelchik and our team will ask you to do so.
Jewelry Can Create Added Risks
The most important way to prevent complications during surgery is by creating a sterile environment. Before surgery, our team spends considerable time preparing the operating room by cleaning everything that could possibly harbor bacteria. Once surgery begins, your body will even be wiped down with an iodine solution and the rest will be covered with sterile sheets. All of these steps prevent bacteria from coming into contact with the surgical site. Jewelry and piercings, unfortunately, tend to accumulate bacteria and can introduce it into the operating room – even if it’s on a completely different area of the body.
In the rare event of an emergency, jewelry can also complicate care from our team. For example, strong magnetic technologies or electrical tools may be needed. Additionally, piercings can get in the way of areas our team needs to quickly access. Although these events are extremely rare under the care of a board-certified plastic surgeon, it’s important to mitigate any possible risks during your surgery.
Jewelry Can Be Lost or Stolen
Dr. Angelchik partners with many hospitals and medical facilities around the Glendale, AZ area. Most medical centers carry policies that state they’re not responsible for any lost or stolen items, and jewelry is no different. Even if you leave your jewelry with your friend or family member who will drive you home, it can still be lost or stolen. Additionally, if you leave jewelry on like sentimental rings, there’s always the rare chance it will need to be cut off in an emergency (and the facility will not be liable).
Jewelry Can Interfere With Medical Care
It’s logical to remove piercings in your treatment area like belly button piercings if you’re undergoing a tummy tuck or nipple piercings for a breast procedure. But your procedure will likely include more steps than just the surgery itself – you may also need general anesthesia or a urinary catheter during your procedure. Even if your procedure doesn’t include these things, they may be necessary in the event of an emergency. So, for example, tongue and genital piercings need to be removed even if it doesn’t seem relevant to your procedure.
What Should I Do With Jewelry and Piercings?
Best practice is to leave any and all jewelry and piercings at home before you leave for your procedure. This includes rings (even wedding rings), necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Any facial or body piercings must also be taken out. There’s always the chance that your surgery will need to be rescheduled if you arrive with jewelry or piercings, so make sure to contact our team with any questions about your pre-op instructions to ensure a smooth and successful procedure.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Paul Angelchik is an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who can answer your questions about plastic surgery and what to expect. To schedule an appointment with our team, contact our Glendale office by calling or filling out our online contact form.
