Potential complications
Body Piercing
Immediate Complications
- Bleeding: Varies from minutes (earlobe) to days (genitals) to stop.
- Pain: Often experienced as local anesthesia is rarely used.
- Nausea: Can result from pain.
Cutaneous Adverse Effects
Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is a frequent non-infectious complication, often caused by nickel. Hypoallergenic metals like surgical stainless steel, niobium, titanium, or gold are recommended during the healing period. Irritant contact dermatitis can occur from cleaning solutions and is treated by removing the irritant.
Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars
Individuals with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring are at increased risk. These scars can be mitigated with silicone gel sheeting or corticosteroid injections. Keloid scars may continue to grow beyond the original wound size and require prolonged treatment.
Granuloma
Granulomas, or small lumps of trapped fluid, can form around the piercing site. Treatment involves warm compresses to reduce the fluid accumulation.
Infectious Complications
Infections at the piercing site can be serious and require prompt medical intervention. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. Severe infections may necessitate antibiotics or other treatments.
Special Considerations for Belly Button and Ear Piercings
Belly Button Piercings
Belly button piercings can take up to 18 months to heal due to constant movement. Signs of infection include painful swelling, increased redness, discharge, and feeling unwell. Treatment involves cleaning the area with saltwater solutions, applying antibacterial creams, and possibly seeking medical advice.
Ear Piercings
Ear piercings through the earlobe heal quicker due to better blood flow, while cartilage piercings are more prone to serious infections. Common complications include minor infections, allergic reactions, keloid formation, and traumatic tearing.
Preventing Infections in New Piercings
To minimize the risk of infection, it is essential to:
- Choose a Qualified Piercer: Ensure the piercer is experienced and licensed.
- Clean the Piercing Twice a Day: Use saline solutions to soften crusting.
- Avoid Touching or Twisting Jewelry: Minimize handling to prevent introducing bacteria.
- Stay Out of Pools and Bodies of Water: Avoid swimming during the healing
References
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Ear piercing: How to care for newly pierced ears. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ear-piercing/about/pac-20385041
DermNet NZ. (n.d.). Body piercing. Retrieved from https://dermnetnz.org/topics/body-piercing/
NHS. (n.d.). Body piercing and tattoos. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/body-piercing-and-tattoos/
