How to Safely Remove a Hard-to-Remove Septum Earring

Septum piercings are a popular form of body modification, but they can sometimes be tricky to manage. If you're dealing with a backing or earring that's difficult to remove, it's important to take the right steps to avoid further complications. Here’s how to safely and effectively remove a hard-to-remove septum earring.

Why Seeking Professional Help is Best

Your initial piercing may have been done with a piercing gun, which isn't ideal for septum piercings. Guns are not precise enough to create the perfect hole, and can often result in tighter, harder to remove backings. In such cases, it's important to seek help from a professional piercer. They not only have the right tools but also the expertise to manage and remove your earring safely.

Risks of DIY Removal

Attempting to remove the backing yourself using pliers or any other tool you have around can be extremely risky. Here are some of the dangers:

Damage to the Piercing Site: Using pliers can damage the piercing and even the surrounding tissue, causing pain and potentially leading to infection. Increased Risk of Infection: Home tools are unlikely to be sterile, and the environment in your home can never be as clean as a medical setting. Inability to Properly Heal: If the piercing is removed and not properly healed, a new piercing may be more difficult to perform, or you may experience complications like keloid formation. Further Complications: Delaying the removal can increase the risk of infection, swelling, and other issues that can make the removal process even more complicated.

Given these risks, it's crucial to have a professional handle the removal to ensure that your septum piercing is cared for correctly.

Steps to Safely Remove the Backing

While it's generally best to seek professional help, if you absolutely must remove the backing yourself, here’s how to do it safely:

Gather Sterile Tools: Ensure that you have clean and sterile tools, such as needle-nose pliers or a dedicated ring opener. Clean and Disinfect: Wash your hands thoroughly and disinfect your tools with rubbing alcohol or another suitable sterilizer. Position the Tools: Carefully insert the tips of the pliers into the loops of the butterfly barbell and pry them apart. Slide Off the Backing: When the loops are apart, the backing should slide off the post easily. Dispose of Tools and Clean Up: Dispose of any used items and clean the area around your piercing with a sterile antiseptic solution.

Even if you manage to remove the backing, it's essential to continue caring for your piercing as if it were new. Follow the aftercare guidelines provided by your piercer, and monitor the area for any signs of infection or complications.

When to Seek Additional Help

If you're struggling with the removal process or if you experience any of the following symptoms, seek professional help immediately:

Pain and Swelling: These can be signs of tissue damage or infection. Redness and Discharge: These are common signs of an infection and require attention. Increased Discomfort: If the pain is severe or worsening, it's best to see a professional.

Remember, a professional piercer has the skills and tools to ensure that your septum piercing is cared for properly, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring a smooth healing process.

Conclusion

Septum piercings, like any body modification, require proper care and attention. If you're faced with the challenge of removing a difficult backing, it's best to seek professional help to avoid further complications. Use sterile tools, practice proper hygiene, and ensure that any wound is cared for correctly. By doing so, you can avoid pain, infection, and potential scarring, allowing your piercing to heal properly and ensuring your safety and comfort.