Recently, I had a patient visit with a complaint of ear lobe swelling.\u00a0 She had had her ears pierced at a well-regarded tattoo and piercing studio a few weeks before. Despite following the studio\u2019s aftercare recommendations, one of her piercings became a bit irritated and suddenly \u201cblew up overnight.\u201d When she came to the office, I couldn\u2019t even see the front of the earring that had become fully embedded in her ear lobe.<\/p>\n
Ear piercings<\/a> are a type of \u201cbody modification,\u201d or a way to permanently alter one\u2019s appearance. Tattoos and other types of body piercings<\/a> are also body modifications that are increasingly common forms of self-expression in the United States.<\/p>\n Body modification of any type can lead to complications like my patient experienced. While most kids\u2019 ear lobe piercings heal well with proper care, certain piercing locations have higher risk of complications \u2013 particularly the tongue, nasal septum, genitalia and dermal piercings. Most reactions tend to be minor, but there can also be serious, life-threatening complications such as infection, hematomas, embedded jewelry, keloid scarring, ripped holes or permanent stretching. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to watch for any symptoms and reach out to your doctor promptly if you notice anything concerning.<\/p>\n It\u2019s always recommended to have these modifications done by a trained professional, who will use proper techniques and explain the risks and how to take care of the site at home. Proper sterilization of needles is of utmost importance to prevent life-threatening bloodborne infections like HIV and hepatitis B and C. A piercing professional can also guide jewelry choices for new piercings to minimize the chances of inflammation.<\/p>\n Tattoo complications are uncommon if done by professionals and cared for appropriately. However, sensitivity to the pigments that give tattoos color can cause inflammation, and conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or lupus can be worsened by tattooing. Local infections can occur from contaminated tattoo ink\/needles or from scratching the skin after tattooing.<\/p>\n In most states, to have a piercing done under the age of 18, parent\/guardian consent is required. Tattooing may be done as young as 16 with parental consent in a few states, whereas many states prohibit tattoos under the age of 18 even with parental permission.<\/p>\nMy teen wants to get a tattoo or piercing.<\/em>\u00a0How should I respond<\/em>?<\/em><\/h3>\n