Consider the Possible Problems With Ear Piercings

Not that long ago, it was fairly common practice for kids to pierce each other’s ears with an ice cube and a needle, a practice that could result in a nasty infection.

These days, kids are better informed about ear piercing, knowing that they can go to the doctor’s office or jewelry store to have the procedure done. It’s generally considered a safer bet to go to a doctor--usually a dermatologist.

The trouble with getting your ears pierced at the jewelry store is that you have no way of knowing for sure the expertise of the person poking holes in you. Also, you can’t be certain that the equipment is properly sterilized.

There are other things to keep in mind. If you’re younger than 18, you’ll need a parent’s permission. And it’s a good idea to have a discussion with them about whether piercing is the right choice for you.

“You should give it serious consideration. Piercing does leave permanent marks on the skin,” says Dr. Steven Weiss, chief of dermatology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. “It’s important to think about why one is doing it.”

Consider also that you will have to learn how to care for your newly pierced ears to avoid complications. Make sure you understand about cleaning your earlobes and how long to wear the studs. It’s important to always wash your hands before touching your pierced ears. Swelling, redness, heat, tenderness, pain and oozing are signs of a possible infection, requiring a visit to the doctor. Some people have allergic reactions to different metals; real gold or stainless steel are the recommended materials for earrings.

“The other thing that I advise people is they shouldn’t wear anything that’s too heavy or too long because this increases the risk of stretching or tearing the earlobe,” Weiss says.

He discourages patients from piercing above the earlobe, in the ear cartilage, because of the increased risk of problems. Piercing other parts of the face also is risky business. Most dangerous of all is tongue piercing, which sometimes can lead to chipped teeth, speech impediments and even life-threatening swelling.

“I would strongly, strongly discourage it,” Weiss says.

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Kids and other readers can e-mail Emily Dwass at emilydwass@yahoo.com.