If I want a fat transfer to my breasts do I need to take out my nipple jewelry during surgery?

Thank you for your question. All body piercing should be removed prior to surgery to avoid burns from electrocautery and to avoid contamination during the procedure. Piercings may be replaced after the procedure. Always discuss this with your surgeon as each physician may have their own preference in regards to removing and replacing piercings. Thank you! 

For safety reasons, because the piercings are near the surgery site, you will want to remove them. Get in touch with your PS and anesthesiologist to determine when the nipple piercings have to be removed. Your PS will tell you when it is safe to reinsert the piercings after your breasts have healed.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Yes, there are several indications for why jewelry must be removed prior to surgery. Wearing jewelry during a surgical procedure can put you at an increased risk for infection, it can possibly get in the way during the procedure, and normal post- operative swelling can cause the area to swell making removal of the jewelry difficult.

Thanks for your question. I ask my patients to remove any nipple piercings prior to surgery. Depending on your surgeon, this can be done while you are asleep. The piercings can then be returned post-operatively. All the best.