Wearing jewellery during cosmetic surgery can pose various risks and complications, so medical professionals advise removing all jewellery before any surgical procedure. Here are some of the main reasons why jewellery is not safe to wear while undergoing surgery:

Infection Risk

All forms of jewellery have the potential to accumulate bacteria and germs in close contact with the skin, irrespective of how diligently they are cleaned. Surgical environments demand exceptionally high levels of sterility, as any introduction of bacteria can significantly elevate the risk of infections in the area of incisions or surgical wounds. Things like rings, bracelets, and piercings, when coming into direct contact with the skin, can be prone to trapping and spreading germs. Preventing infection is critical during invasive procedures where the skin barrier is broken.

Interference with Medical Devices

Many medical devices used during surgery emit electrical currents or magnetic waves, such as cauterisation tools. Jewellery pieces can absorb some energy and heat up unexpectedly, causing burns or discomfort. Metallic jewellery can also distort imaging scans like CT or MRI used before and during some operations. Any jewellery can also hinder the proper placement and functioning of blood pressure cuffs and pulse oximeter probes, crucial for monitoring vital signs during surgery.

Risk of Burns

Even common sterilising solutions used during surgery, like iodine or chlorhexidine, can react with jewellery metals and chemicals. This can heat metal rapidly against the skin, leading to chemical burns or skin damage. Jewellery accidentally exposed to electrocautery during invasive procedures can also burn the surrounding skin or surgical drapes and tools.

Physical Obstruction

Any jewellery physically blocks full access to and visibility of the surgical site for the physician. Whether necklaces, large rings, or dangling earrings, these adornments can obstruct incisions and constrict narrow surgical openings. Jewellery also limits accessibility for proper cleaning and sterilisation of the skin before making incisions. Even small studs or rings can catch on gloves, surgical drapes, or instruments and increase the chances of contamination.

Risk of Strangulation 

Loose neck chains risk catching on surgical equipment and tightening around the neck. Similarly, piercings with dangling hoops can get accidentally tangled on retractors or scopes during delicate tissue handling. This can lead to cuts or tears on the skin or even choking hazards during extensive neck or face procedures. Any jewellery that can wrap around tissue creates unsafe snagging or strangulation risks.

Loss or Damage Risk

In a complex surgical environment, jewellery items worn into surgery can easily be misplaced, contaminated, or damaged. Items like precious rings, valuable watches, or meaningful religious ornaments are likely to be lost or destroyed when worn into sterile procedural settings. It is safer to leave all jewellery protected with personal belongings rather than risk cherished items.

By understanding all these diverse risks of wearing jewellery during any type of cosmetic surgery, patients can choose to remove all jewellery before their procedure. This helps maximise safety and optimal surgical experiences, free of any jewellery-related complications or delays. Serious problems and permanent injuries can be avoided simply by adhering to the standard pre-op protocol to remove all jewellery before surgeries.