Repiercing Old Piercings: A Comprehensive Guide to Safely Renew Your Look

So, you've got an old piercing hole that's been closed for a while, and now you're itching to put some jewellery back in? We get it! Repiercing can be exciting, but it's crucial to approach it safely to avoid complications. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about repiercing old piercings, from how long to wait to what to expect, and the critical factors a professional piercer considers.

How Long Do I Really Need to Wait?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer here, as the ideal waiting time depends on several factors:

• How long was the piercing in for originally? If you only had the piercing for a short period before removing it, the hole might close up faster and more completely.

• How long has the piercing been closed? A piercing that's been closed for a few weeks will be very different from one that's been closed for a few years.

• The type of piercing: Different body parts heal at different rates. An earlobe piercing will typically be much quicker to “re-open” than a cartilage or navel piercing.

• Your individual healing capabilities: Everyone's body heals differently.

  
  

General Guidelines (But Always Consult a Professional!)

• Recently Closed (Weeks to a Few Months): If your piercing has only been closed for a few weeks or a couple of months, a professional piercer might be able to taper it open. Tapering involves gently inserting a sterile, tapered tool to gradually stretch the existing fistula (the healed tunnel of skin) back to its original size. Do NOT attempt this yourself at home!

• Moderately Closed (Several Months to a Year): After several months, the fistula may have shrunk considerably or even completely closed. Tapering might still be an option, but it's less likely. You're probably looking at a full repiercing in the same spot or very close to it.

• Long-Term Closed (Over a Year): If your piercing has been closed for a year or more, it's highly probable that the tissue has fully healed. You'll need a complete repiercing, meaning you'll go through the entire healing process again.

  
  

Tapering vs. Repiercing: What's the Difference?

Understanding these two terms is key:

• Tapering: This is the process of re-opening an existing, but shrunken, piercing hole. It's gentler than a full repiercing, as it utilizes the original fistula. Not all closed piercings can be tapered open.

• Repiercing: This involves creating a brand new piercing hole in the same general area where an old one used to be. This is necessary when the original fistula has completely closed or is too small to be tapered open safely.

  
  

Beyond Time: Critical Factors for Repiercing Viability and Safety

While time is a factor, a successful repiercing also depends on:

1. The State of the Old Piercing Site:

• Presence and Type of Scar Tissue: This is among the most significant factors.

• Minor Scarring: If the original piercing healed cleanly, a piercer can often successfully pierce through it or taper it open.

• Significant Scarring: Raised, red scars are common, especially in cartilage. A piercer might work around a mature scar, but it may take longer to heal.

• Tissue Health and Elasticity: Healthy, pliable tissue is ideal for piercing. If it lacks elasticity or shows signs of irritation, repiercing may not be a good option.

• Discoloration: Persistent discoloration may indicate ongoing inflammation, which must resolve before repiercing.




2. Time Since the Piercing was Removed:

• Complete Healing: The original piercing must be fully healed and closed. Rushing can lead to complications.

• Fistula Integrity: A piercer will assess if there's enough of the original channel left to taper.




3. Original Piercing Experience and Complications:

• Infections: If the old piercing closed due to a severe infection, recovery might be complicated. The area must be free of residual infection before repiercing.

• Allergic Reactions: Identifying any allergens in your original jewelry is crucial for a safe repiercing.




4. Anatomy of the Area:

• Subtle Changes: Age or weight fluctuations may change your anatomy, affecting ideal jewelry placement.

• Nerves and Blood Vessels: A professional piercer will avoid significant nerves or blood vessels during the procedure.




5. Type of Piercing:

• Lobe Piercings: Generally forgiving, can often be repierced with good results.

• Cartilage Piercings: These require more patience and may have a higher risk of complications.

• Oral/Mucous Membrane Piercings: These heal quickly but can also close quickly.




6. Your Overall Health:

• Immune System: Healthy immune function is essential for healing. Discuss any underlying health conditions with your piercer.

The Do's and Don'ts of Repiercing Old Piercings

DO:

• Consult a Professional Piercer: This is the most crucial step. A reputable piercer can assess your old piercing and advise you on the safest course of action.

• Be Patient: Don't rush the process. Waiting longer is better than risking complications.

• Choose Quality Jewelry: Opt for body-safe materials like implant-grade titanium or surgical stainless steel.

  
  

DON'T:

• Attempt to Force Jewelry Through Yourself: This can cause trauma and increase infection risk.

• Use Old Jewelry Without Sterilizing It: Ensure all jewelry is professionally sterilized before re-insertion.

• Repierce Over Scar Tissue Without Professional Advice: Have a piercer assess the safety of any new piercing.

  
  

What to Expect at the Piercing Studio

When you visit a professional piercer, they will:

1. Examine the Area: Assess the old piercing site for scar tissue and overall health.

2. Discuss Your Options: They’ll let you know if tapering or repiercing is necessary.

3. Clean and Sterilize: The area will be thoroughly cleaned and all equipment used will be sterile.

4. Perform the Procedure: Whether tapering or repiercing, they will ensure safety throughout the process.

5. Provide Aftercare Instructions: Follow these instructions diligently for optimal healing.

   
   

Ready to Rock That Old Piercing Again?

Repiercing old piercings can be a fantastic way to refresh your look, but safety should always be your top priority. By consulting a professional piercer and being mindful of all the factors involved, you can ensure a smooth and successful repiercing journey.

When you're ready to give that old piercing a new lease on life, seek out a reputable studio and get ready to accessorize! The journey of repiercing can be liberating and exciting, just make sure to prioritize your health and safety.