If you’re considering LASIK surgery and also want to perm your eyelashes, timing is important. It’s best to wait at least 1-2 weeks between a lash lift (eyelash perm) and LASIK surgery to avoid complications and ensure optimal results.
This guide explains why eyelash perming and LASIK surgery should be carefully timed, what the risks are, and how to maintain healthy lashes and eyes before surgery.
Key Takeaways
- Wait at least 1–2 weeks between a lash lift and LASIK surgery.
- Perming eyelashes too close to LASIK increases the risk of irritation, infection, and complications.
- After LASIK, wait 2–4 weeks before perming your lashes again to allow full healing.
- If you can’t wait for a lash lift, consider safe alternatives like mascara or mechanical lash curlers.
- Always inform your surgeon about any recent eye-area treatments, including lash lifts.
Understanding Eyelash Perming and LASIK
A lash lift, also known as an eyelash perm, is a beauty treatment that uses chemicals to curl and shape your natural lashes. This procedure involves:
- Applying a perming solution to the lashes.
- Setting the curl with a neutralizer.
- Sometimes tinting the lashes for extra definition.
While a lash lift typically lasts several weeks, it’s important to time it properly before LASIK to avoid potential complications during surgery.
What Happens During LASIK Surgery?
LASIK is a vision correction surgery that reshapes the cornea using a laser to improve eyesight. The process involves:
- Performing the surgery in a sterile environment to minimize infection risk.
- Avoiding makeup, creams, or any foreign substances near the eyes.
- Ensuring proper post-operative hygiene to protect the cornea from contamination.
Any irritation or chemical residue around the eyes from a recent lash lift could compromise the sterile field needed for LASIK surgery.
Is It Safe to Perm Eyelashes Before LASIK?
It’s safest to perm your eyelashes at least 1–2 weeks before LASIK surgery. Here’s why:
- Chemical Exposure: Lash lift solutions can cause temporary irritation, redness, or allergic reactions. Your eyes need to be healthy before surgery to avoid complications.
- Increased Risk of Infection: Any irritation or micro-abrasion from a lash lift can make your eyes more susceptible to infection during LASIK.
- Sterility Concerns: LASIK surgery requires a sterile environment. Any residual chemicals or tint left on your lashes can compromise sterility and affect surgery.
Why Not Perm Lashes Right Before LASIK?
Perming eyelashes right before LASIK can cause:
- Sensitivity and Inflammation: The perming process may leave your eyelids or lashes sensitive, making it more difficult to undergo surgery.
- Chemical Residue: Even after cleaning, traces of perming solution or tint may remain, irritating the eyes during surgery and delaying the procedure if irritation occurs.
How Long Should You Wait Between Lash Perm and LASIK?
The ideal waiting period between a lash lift and LASIK surgery is at least 7–14 days. This waiting time allows for:
- Any irritation to resolve before surgery.
- Addressing any allergic reactions that may develop.
Always consult your surgeon for personalized advice based on your eye health and beauty regimen.
Risks of Eyelash Perming Too Close to LASIK
Perming your eyelashes too close to LASIK increases the risk of:
- Increased Risk of Infection: Disruption to the natural barrier of your eyelids makes it easier for bacteria to enter during surgery.
- Eye Irritation and Delayed Healing: Irritation or allergic reactions from the perm may delay your LASIK recovery.
- Compromised Surgical Sterility: Residual chemicals from the lash perm could affect the sterility required for LASIK surgery.
What About Perming Eyelashes After LASIK?
After LASIK surgery, you should wait at least 2–4 weeks before perming your lashes again. This waiting period allows your eyes to heal fully. Always inform your salon technician that you’ve recently had LASIK surgery before scheduling a lash lift.
Alternatives to Lash Perms Around LASIK
If you’re not ready to perm your lashes before LASIK, consider these safe alternatives:
- Lash Curlers (Before Surgery): Use a mechanical lash curler before LASIK as long as you’re gentle.
- Mascara (Before Surgery): Use mascara up until the day before LASIK. Avoid waterproof formulas as they can be difficult to remove.
- Lash Growth Serums: Check with your surgeon if you’re using any lash serums, as some can cause irritation.
Pre-LASIK Beauty Routine Checklist
- 24 hours before surgery: Stop using eye makeup and creams.
- 1–2 weeks before LASIK: Avoid lash tints, lifts, or extensions.
- On the day of surgery: Remove all makeup and skincare products.
- Inform your surgeon about any recent eye-area treatments or reactions.
Tips for Healthy Lashes and Eyes Before LASIK
- Schedule beauty treatments well in advance of your LASIK surgery date.
- Choose reputable salons with high hygiene standards for lash lifts.
- Monitor your eyes for irritation after a lash perm and consult your eye doctor if needed.
- Keep your eyes clean and makeup-free before surgery for the best outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I get a lash lift the day before LASIK?
No. It’s recommended to wait at least one to two weeks before LASIK to avoid irritation and reduce the risk of infection.
Q2. Will a previous lash perm affect my LASIK results?
As long as your eyes are healthy and free of irritation on the day of surgery, a past lash perm will not affect the LASIK outcome.
Q3. When can I perm my lashes after LASIK?
Wait until your surgeon confirms that your eyes are fully healed, typically 2–4 weeks after surgery.
Q4. Is it safe to use lash serums before LASIK?
Some lash serums may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Always discuss any products with your surgeon during the pre-op appointment.
Q5. Should I tell my LASIK surgeon about my lash lift?
Yes. Be sure to inform your surgeon about any recent eye-area treatments to ensure your safety during surgery.