Nipple piercings are a great way to express your unique style. However, due to varying circumstances, many people choose to remove the piercings and then consider re-piercing them. It’s essential to be aware of the risks and post-care requirements before re-piercing the nipple.
Can Your Nipples Be Re-Pierced?
Yes, your nipples can be re-pierced. Many individuals who remove their piercings for various reasons, such as healing issues, discomfort, or personal preference, opt to have them re-pierced later. However, several factors must be taken into account before making this decision.
1. Heal Time: You must allow enough time for your nipples to fully heal after receiving their initial piercing to be taken out before considering another attempt at piercing. This usually means waiting at least six months – a year post removal to ensure tissue strength for another attempt at piercing.
2. Scar Tissue: If your initial piercing resulted in significant scar tissue formation, this could complicate and increase pain during re-piercing. A professional piercer can evaluate this potential hurdle to determine an ideal approach.
3. Consultation: Before deciding to re-pierce, always consult a professional piercer who can assess your situation, discuss the risks involved, and advise the most efficient course of action.
Re-Piercing Process
Re-piercing nipples is similar to their initial piercing. However, additional considerations may arise due to scar tissue or previous complications. Here’s what to expect:
1. Consultation: Your piercer will examine your nipples, review your history of piercings, and assess any scar tissue formation.
2. Placement: When performing the new piercing, its placement can either match up precisely with its predecessor’s or be slightly adjusted to prevent scar tissue formation.
3. Procedure: For subsequent piercings, using a sterilized needle to create a new hole and insert jewelry is usually sufficient to develop discomfort at similar levels to the initial piercing.
4. Aftercare: Aftercare is critical for optimal healing. Follow your piercer’s instructions regarding cleaning with a saline solution and avoiding trauma to the area.
Risks and Complications
Re-piercing one’s nipples may carry certain risks, including:
Infection: As with any piercing procedure, re-piercing can cause disease. To prevent infection, keep the area sterile and follow aftercare instructions.
Discomfort: Scar tissue may increase the pain experienced with subsequent re-piercing attempts.
Keloids: Some individuals are susceptible to the formation of keloid scar tissue, which may affect both the appearance and healing of new piercings.
Migration/Rejection: Even with proper aftercare, new piercings may migrate or be rejected by your body if there’s extensive scar tissue present. For this reason, you should carefully research all options before choosing the best one.
Also Read- How to Choose the Best Jewelry For Nipple Piercings
Also Read- What to Wear when Getting Nipple Pierced: Complete Guide
FAQs About Nipples Re-Piercing
1. How long should I wait before re-piercing my nipples
A: It is advised to allow at least 6 to 12 months post-removal of the initial piercing before attempting another for optimal healing results.
2. Will Re-Piercing Hurt More than My First Piercing
A: Pain levels vary. Scar tissue could make the experience more painful for some individuals, while others may not notice a difference at all.
3. Can I pierce through scar tissue?
A: Yes, but its success will depend on its extent and the advice and assessment from a professional piercer.
4. What type of jewelry should be used for re-pierced nipples?
A: To minimize the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, high-quality hypoallergenic materials like titanium or surgical steel should be chosen for jewelry to use with re-pierced nipples, such as titanium or surgical steel.
5. What should I do if my re-piercing becomes infected?
A: As soon as you suspect an infection, contact your piercer or healthcare professional immediately and keep the area clean. Do not remove jewelry again and again, as this could trap bacteria in its core and further spread the infection.
6. Is Breastfeeding with Re-pierced Nipples Safe?
A: While most can safely breastfeed while wearing jewelry in their pierced nipple piercings, for safety’s sake, it may be wise to remove all pieces prior to feeding in order to reduce potential choking hazards for babies.
Conclusion
Nipple re-piercing can be an attractive option if you allow enough healing time and consult with a professional piercer. Understanding the process, potential risks, and aftercare requirements will help guarantee an enjoyable re-piercing experience.