AboutBrian Skellie Expertise I can answer questions in regards to and not limited to: jewelry safety, specifically material, shape, proportion, and related issues; aseptic technique and sterilization as it applies to piercing safety; ethical issues of technique and bedside manner; the aftercare and recovery process for piercings.
Experience
Past/Present clients
Tens of thousands of one on one client experiences. http://www.piercing.org/ Body jewelry design and safety expert: Member ASTM committee F04(www.astm.org)
Member AAMI (www.aami.org)
Research advisor and educator for the APP for over a decade(www.safepiercing.org) teaching advanced studio setup, sterilization and equipment management, freehand piercing, aseptic/sterile technique and much more.
Distributor for SciCan StatIM sterilization and cleaning products. http://www.piercing.org/statim/
Expert: Brian Skellie Date: 6/19/2008 Subject: Navel Piercing Infection
Question I got my navel pierced approximately nine years ago. Up until this past month I never had a problem. A couple of weeks ago I began itching around the area that my navel was pierced. I took the barbell out thinking I needed a break and cleaned it. I tried a few days later to put the barbell in, but it would not go all the way through. Also, I noticed puss coming from the area. It's been about three days and the area still appears to be infected - extremely sore and itchy. Once the infection goes away will I have to completely get the area repierced? If so, how long should I wait? Also, what would cause the area to become infected (after so many years) and what's the best way to treat this infection?
Thanks in adance.
Answer See a doctor if this does not clear up right away. Once you are well, stop by to visit the studio for a free consultation. We may be able to reinsert the jewelry for you.
The piercing probably was damaged by pressure or friction, or from rough handling. If you changed the jewelry right before the infection, it could be a reaction to the new piece, especially if the screw threads are visible on the post.
