Can I use a plastic piercing retainer during surgery?

Question

Hello, I have a breast reduction surgery scheduled and a recently done helix piercing on my ear. Would it be safe to use a plastic retainer in that piercing to keep it from closing during surgery?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @bdubs2, thank you for your question. I would recommend against using any kind of jewelry or retainer during surgery, even if it is made of plastic. This is because it poses a risk of infection and can interfere with the surgical procedure. It is important to remove all jewelry before surgery to ensure a safe and successful outcome.  Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS),   International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It's best to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding piercings and other jewelry during surgery, as they may have specific policies in place. Generally, it's recommended to remove all jewelry, including earrings and body piercings, before surgery to prevent any complications or interference with medical equipment.

However, if you're concerned about your helix piercing closing during surgery, you could speak with your surgeon and piercer to explore alternative options. For example, you could discuss whether it would be possible to temporarily replace the jewelry with a clear or flesh-colored retainer made of a biocompatible material such as BioPlast or PTFE.

Ultimately, the decision about whether to remove or retain your piercing jewelry during surgery should be based on your surgeon's guidance and your personal preferences, taking into account the potential risks and benefits.

Best of luck !

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi bdubs2,
Metal piercings create theoretic problems, given that they could heat up and caused burns secondary to the cautery and the grounding system used for the cautery. A plastic piercing would be appropriate.
Hope this helps.
Best,Christopher Pannucci MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, WA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bdubs2,
generally speaking, plastic retainer can be used. But every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jeremy S. Nikfarjam, MD · Answer

Hi bdubs,
Congratulations on your upcoming procedure!
I advise my patients to replace metal piercings with a plastic retainer if needed. 
Good luck to you!
-Dr. Nik

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. No, you cannot have a plastic piercing retainer during breast reduction surgery. Please always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take care, Dr. Moises Salama, board certified plastic surgeon.

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

Yes, it is safe to use a plastic retainer during your surgery.  I suggest switching several days before so that the piercing site is not irritated on the day of surgery.

Brian Biggerstaff, MD · Answer

Hello bdubs2, each surgeon is different and most are very picky in general, but in my practice (and I would guess the majority of practices) I would be alright with proceeding with a plastic piercing retainer. I would double check with your surgeon to be sure he or she is alright with it, however. That way there are no surprises the morning of surgery. Hope this helps. Thanks, Brian.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You probably should be able to keep the plastic in, but ask your surgeon to be sure. If it is not in the way, it should be fine.

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

Nipples harbor bacteria, as do any skin piercings.  Removing them is best so the operative site can be thoroughly sterilized for surgery.  You can have them placed after surgery to avoid closure.

Can I use a plastic piercing retainer during surgery?

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