A dermal piercing involves a single-point insertion where an anchor is embedded just beneath the skin’s surface, with the decorative jewelry visible on top. Unlike traditional piercings, it lacks an external backing, making its removal a specialized procedure. People may seek removal for various reasons, including aesthetic change, irritation, natural rejection, infection, or migration. Medical procedures, such as MRIs, can also necessitate their removal.
Seeking Professional Removal
Professional removal is essential for safety and optimal results. Qualified professionals for this procedure include dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and highly experienced, licensed body piercers specializing in advanced body modifications. These experts maintain sterile environments, minimizing complications like infection. When choosing a professional, research their qualifications, experience, and patient reviews to ensure a proven track record with dermal piercing removal. Their expertise is important because the anchor of the piercing is designed to integrate with the tissue, often forming scar tissue around it over time.
Understanding the Removal Process
Dermal piercing removal is typically a quick, minor in-office procedure, often completed within 20 minutes under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The process begins with sanitizing the area, followed by administering a local anesthetic to numb the skin. The visible jewelry top is then unscrewed, and a small incision, often just a few millimeters, is made to access the embedded anchor. The professional carefully extracts the dermal anchor, sometimes by gently massaging the surrounding skin or releasing any scar tissue. After the anchor is removed, the tiny incision may be closed with a single stitch or sterile strip, or it might be left to heal on its own if small enough; while some scarring is possible, it is generally minimal and often appears as a small mark.
Aftercare and Healing
Aftercare following dermal piercing removal is important for proper healing and minimizing scarring. The removal site should be cleaned gently twice daily with a mild, antibacterial soap or saline solution, then carefully patted dry with a clean, sterile gauze. It is important to avoid touching the area unnecessarily and to refrain from using harsh products like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can impede healing. Monitoring the site for signs of infection, such as severe pain, increased swelling, yellow or green discharge, foul odor, or excessive redness, is also important. The typical healing period for a dermal piercing removal site can range from a few weeks to up to three months, depending on individual healing capabilities and adherence to aftercare instructions. A small scar, which might be a slight indent or raised bump, is a possible outcome, but with consistent care, it can often become less noticeable over time.
Dangers of Self-Removal
Attempting to remove a dermal piercing at home carries significant risks and is strongly discouraged by professionals. These include a high risk of infection due to non-sterile conditions, excessive bleeding, and the potential for permanent and noticeable scarring, including hypertrophic or keloid scars. There is also a risk of incomplete removal, where part of the anchor remains embedded, or even nerve damage. Professional intervention is necessary because specialized tools and techniques are required to safely extract the anchor, ensuring the best possible outcome for the skin.