Can a septum piercing melt away cartilage?

Hello,Based on your description, an in-person consultation is required to fully evaluate. Damage can be done to the septum from a piercing, but it shouldn't "melt" it. I recommend finding a board certified plastic surgeon near you to get a full evaluation.All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Hello and thank you for your question.  Piercings may damage the septum especially if some bleeding formed that resorbed the cartilage over time.  The best answer would be provided during an in-person consultation.Please refer to my link below for more information on Rhinoplasty.  Good luck.Mark K Markarian, MD, MSPHHarvard-trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

It's possible that if a patient develops a septal hematoma during the placement of the piercing, the cartilage may absorb and or the inflammation may become chronic.  Without an exam, it will not be possible to fully evaluate you and give you recommendations. 

Probably. You should take it out and clean it frequently and take care of the pierce so it doesn't get so irritated. A serious infection can melt cartilage and maybe the rubbing of the stud can do a little damage, but it is unlikely to result in any external nasal deformity.