Acrylic Nails and Gel Polish During Surgery: What You Need to Know

Before undergoing any surgery, patients are often asked to remove makeup, jewelry, and nail products. One of the most common questions is whether acrylic nails and gel polish during surgery are allowed. While it may seem like a small detail, keeping your nails natural before a procedure plays an important role in your safety.

Why Are Acrylic Nails and Gel Polish a Concern During Surgery?

The main reason hospitals restrict acrylic nails and gel polish during surgery is related to patient monitoring and hygiene.

• Oxygen monitoring: During surgery, your oxygen levels are continuously measured using a device called a pulse oximeter, which is usually clipped to your finger. This device detects oxygen saturation through your natural nail bed. However, gel or acrylic nails can block accurate readings, especially if the color is dark or opaque. Incorrect oxygen readings may delay a doctor’s response during critical moments.
  

• Infection risk: Artificial nails and gel polish can trap bacteria underneath, even after thorough hand washing. In a sterile surgical environment, this poses a risk of infection for both the patient and medical staff.
  

• Flammability: Certain types of acrylic nail products are flammable. Though rare, this presents an additional safety risk during surgeries that use heat or electrical equipment.
  

What About Toenails?

Patients often ask if it’s acceptable to keep acrylic or gel polish on toenails instead. The same rules generally apply—especially for foot or leg surgeries. However, if your surgery doesn’t involve the feet, the medical team may allow it, depending on hospital policy.

Can One Nail Be Left with Gel Polish for Monitoring?

Some hospitals allow one finger—typically the index or middle finger—to remain polish-free for monitoring purposes. However, it’s always best to check with your surgeon or anesthesiologist. In most cases, all nail polish and artificial nails must be removed from both hands before surgery for accurate monitoring and to avoid contamination risks.

Preparing for Surgery: What You Should Do

To ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Remove all acrylic nails and gel polish at least one day before surgery.
  

• Avoid using nail hardeners or colored polishes.
  

• Keep nails clean and short.
  

• Inform your medical team if you have any nail infections or skin irritation.
  

Proper preparation helps ensure that all medical readings are precise and that your risk of infection is minimized.

The Role of Healthy Türkiye

At Healthy Türkiye, we guide every international patient through pre-surgery preparation to ensure safety and comfort. Whether you’re undergoing cosmetic, orthopedic, or general surgery, our team and partner hospitals provide detailed pre-operative instructions, including guidelines about acrylic nails and gel polish during surgery.

Our goal is to help you arrive for your procedure fully prepared—physically, mentally, and hygienically—so that your recovery can begin in the best possible way.

Conclusion

While having acrylic nails or gel polish during surgery may seem harmless, it can interfere with vital monitoring equipment and increase infection risks. Removing them beforehand ensures a safe and smooth surgical experience.

If you’re planning surgery in Turkey, Healthy Türkiye will provide all the necessary details and personalized guidance for your pre-operative preparation.