Aug 27, 2025

LASIK & Eyelash Extensions: Before & After Guide

"I want to get LASIK surgery, but what should I do about my eyelash extensions?" "After LASIK, when can I get eyelash extensions again?"

LASIK is a common vision correction surgery, and eyelash extensions are a popular way to enhance the eyes. Since both involve the eye area, many people wonder if they can have both.

However, there are important precautions to take regarding eyelash extensions when undergoing LASIK surgery.

This article explains in detail how to handle eyelash extensions before and after receiving LASIK surgery.

The Relationship Between LASIK Surgery and Eyelash Extensions

LASIK is surgery on the cornea, while eyelash extensions are applied to the base of the eyelids. Although they might seem unrelated, precautions are necessary considering the safety of the surgery and the post-operative recovery process.

Eyelash Extensions Before LASIK Surgery

Refrain from application: Avoid getting new eyelash extensions or fills before your surgery.
Removal is mandatory: If you currently have eyelash extensions, you must have them completely removed several days before the surgery.
- Reasons:
  - Extensions can interfere with the disinfection process around the eyes before surgery or may fall off during the procedure.
  - Residual makeup or extensions can hinder the penetration of eye drops and anesthetic used during surgery.

Eyelash Extensions After LASIK Surgery

Doctor's permission is paramount: Resuming eyelash extensions must only be done after consulting with your surgeon and obtaining their explicit permission. Never make this decision on your own.
Infection prevention is crucial: For a period after surgery, it is extremely important to avoid getting foreign objects in the eyes or causing irritation to prevent infection.
Timeline guidance:
- The post-operative observation period generally requires about 6 months.
- During the period you are using prescribed eye drops (especially steroid medications that suppress the immune system), eyelash extensions should be avoided due to the increased risk of infection.
- The most reliable way is to ask your surgeon if it's okay to resume eyelash extensions once they have given you permission to stop the eye drop treatment and resume wearing regular makeup.

【Supplementary Information】What is LASIK Surgery?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea using a laser, thereby changing how light is refracted (bent).

Procedure Overview:
1. A thin flap is created on the surface of the cornea using either a microkeratome (an ophthalmic blade) or a femtosecond laser.
2. The flap is lifted, exposing the underlying corneal tissue (stroma). An excimer laser is then used to reshape the cornea's curvature.
3. The flap is repositioned, where it adheres naturally without stitches.
Advantages:
- A high probability of achieving good uncorrected visual acuity (e.g., 20/20 or better), potentially eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
- It's an outpatient procedure (no hospital stay required) with minimal pain during the surgery.
- Vision recovery is often rapid, with many patients seeing clearly within a few hours to a day after surgery.
Disadvantages & Precautions:
- Post-operative symptoms like halos (rings around lights), glare (increased sensitivity to bright lights), and dry eye can occur.
- It is considered an elective procedure, so it is not covered by health insurance.
- Not suitable for everyone; conditions like keratoconus (a corneal disease), glaucoma, or having thin corneas can make you ineligible.
- There's a small possibility of vision regression (myopia returning) or changes in prescription over time.
- The surgery thins the cornea, which might affect future eye procedures like cataract surgery (specifically, intraocular lens calculations and eye pressure measurements).

While LASIK is a well-established procedure, it's essential to understand these potential benefits and drawbacks. Choosing a reputable medical facility and having a thorough consultation to get all your questions answered before deciding is crucial.

Summary

When undergoing LASIK surgery, careful consideration must be given to eyelash extensions.

Before Surgery: Always have existing extensions removed.
After Surgery: Never resume extensions without your surgeon's explicit permission.

Prioritize your eye health and safety to successfully combine LASIK and eyelash extensions. If you have any questions or concerns, always consult your doctor.