I have a dermal piercing in the middle of my chest. Will I have to get it removed for a breast augmentation?

The text book answer is to remove your piercing. This is to help prevent infection and to avoid a burn since the electrocautery used to stop bleeding in surgery could arc to the metal in your piercing. That said, I have had some patients who can't remove their jewelry, and I have never had anyone get an infection or burn. Your piercing could be covered with a sterile dressing during surgery to minimize the risks. I would discuss this with your plastic surgeon and do what feels right for you. 

Hello,Usually body piercings in this area pose an infection risk or could lead to burns related to the electrocautery equipment. You will need to ask your surgeon what they advise for you.All the best 

I advise my patients to remove chest dermal piercings. I am concerned that the electric current from a cautery unit (a device to stop small amounts of bleeding) might get transmitted to the piercing and burn the skin. Hope this information is helpful.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author