As both nasal surgeries and nasal piercings continue to be popular fashion trends for women and men, the two may sometimes find themselves at odds. Although nasal piercings now ranging in a variety of styles and shapes, any of them will pose extra risks during a rhinoplasty surgery if not managed carefully.

If you are one of the many prospective rhinoplasty patients who has already altered his or her nose through piercing, you’ll want to pay attention.

Can Pierced Noses Be Surgically Altered?

Having a nasal piercing does preclude you from having nasal surgery. Since piercings are placed in the cartilage of the nose, the hole will not present any problems during your rhinoplasty. You may be a good candidate for either open or closed rhinoplasty surgery, no matter what kind of piercing you have. A closed rhinoplasty begins with incisions placed inside the nose, where they will not leave any visible scars behind. For an open rhinoplasty, one small incision is placed on the underside of the nose and between the nostrils.

Either approach to rhinoplasty will not directly affect your nose piercing. However, the changes made during your surgery may change its location. Sometimes, as your plastic surgeon makes the alterations necessary to achieve your desired results, the piercing hole can shift. In some cases, patients may choose to have their nose pierced again after they have fully healed.

Should Piercings Be Removed Prior to Surgery?

While your piercing will likely stay untouched during your surgery, that doesn’t mean it’s okay to keep it in. During your rhinoplasty consultation, your surgeon will discuss removing your piercing as one of your pre-operative instructions. Leaving your piercing in can pose serious risks to you, since it is possible for it to dislodge and travel into your airway. Piercings can also conduct electricity and heat up during your surgery, burning the skin surrounding it. Ultimately, leaving your piercing at home for the day is the best way to go, so plan accordingly.

When Can Piercings Go Back In After Surgery?

After surgery, your nose will be bandaged or placed in a cast, so you probably won’t even think about putting your piercing back in place. As the healing process progresses and the swelling goes down, you might start to consider it, provided the hole hasn’t closed up. Timing is everything when it comes to this important post-operative step, so be sure to go over it with your surgeon before making any decisions on your own. When you are completely healed and not at risk of infection, you can replace your piercing safely.

When Is It Safe for Post-Op Piercings?

If you’re thinking about getting a piercing after your rhinoplasty, or just getting re-pierced, you’ll want to discuss it with your surgeon as a safety precaution.

After rhinoplasty surgery, the cartilage in your nose will be very soft and malleable until it is able to settle into its new position.

A nasal piercing performed during this time will damage the cartilage in this weakened state, often permanently. When the cartilage is too soft, it can’t withstand the weight of nasal rings or studs safely, so gunning for that piercing gun is a bad idea. Many plastic surgeons will recommend waiting at least eight to 10 weeks before having any piercings performed, while others suggest waiting longer.

To get the best answer for your unique set of circumstances, talk directly to your surgeon. Even though waiting can be frustrating, try to remember that doing so will only help ensure your new piercing is placed safely and won’t cause lasting damage to your nose. This should one of the most basic precautionary measures you take as you’ve just invested the time and money into your beautiful new nose!

Where Can I Find a Rhinoplasty Surgeon?

When you’re ready to take the first step toward achieving the look you’ve always wanted for your nose, book a consultation with a recognized expert in facial plastic surgery. Dr. Andrew Frankel is board certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (Ear, Nose, and Throat). Rhinoplasty is one of his specialties, and he has been recognized for original scholarship on nasal vasculature and rhinoplasty’s effect on it.

Schedule your appointment today to guarantee your best rhinoplasty results.Contact Dr. Frankel’s office, located at 201 Lasky Drive in Beverly Hills, CA, by calling (310) 552-2173.