Properly Healing Your Nose Piercing: Replacing a Short Stud

Got your nose pierced yesterday and are now contemplating a switch to a longer nose stud? While your impatience could be understandable, consider the critical role of proper healing first. When you receive a new nose piercing, your piercer and the aftercare instructions provided by them play a significant part in ensuring a smooth healing process.

Why You Should Consider a Longer Stud

There are several reasons why you might want to switch your short nose stud for a longer one:

To ensure proper healing without re-traumatizing the new piercing site To avoid the high risk of losing the shorter nose stud compared to a ring or a nose screw To align with your initial skincare and healing routine

Risks of Using a Nose Bone

Nose bones are typically reserved for healed piercings, and there are reasons for this practice:

The bone can cause micro-trauma each time it's removed, which can delay healing in a new piercing When a bone is removed, it can be caused by catching on clothing, bedding, or other items, leading to unnecessary pain and healing issues In a new piercing, the fistula (the opening in the cartilage) is still adapting to the post, and using a bone can disrupt this adaptation

Rather than a bone, a ring or a nose screw would be a better choice for a new piercing because these options help the piercing heal properly without causing additional trauma.

Professional Advice and Care

As someone with multiple piercings and experience in performing many piercings, including nostril piercings, my recommendation is to return to the piercing practitioner and ask for a ring or nose screw. Explain your concerns and why you feel you need a longer stud for proper healing. Piercers are there to support you and should not deter you from making the right choice for your body.

Avoid being swayed by industries' standard advice: Some professions might insist on using a specific piece of jewelry based on their practices. However, your comfort and health are paramount. Buy quality hardware: Obtain a nickel-free piece of jewelry to ensure minimal irritation and faster healing. Follow careful aftercare instructions to promote healing.

Alternative Solution: Healing the Piercing and Removing the Stud

If you decide against the immediate change, consider the following approach:

1. Remove the bone: Begin by removing the bone, allowing the piercing to heal.

2. Observe healing progress: Monitor the piercing closely. Nose piercings are among the most challenging piercings to heal, and you may need to take additional steps to ensure full recovery.

3. Re-pierce if needed: If the healing process is successful, you can re-pierce the nose with a longer stud. This method often results in a more unobstructed and aligned piercing.

Final Thoughts: Trust your instincts. Nose piercings, especially those with bones, can be challenging to heal properly. Taking the time to heal and then getting the appropriate jewelry can lead to a more successful and comfortable piercing experience.

Good luck with your healing process!