Stupid question: could an infected ear piercing complicate my surgery?

[LynnD 7]

I was told I needed to remove all metal jewelry before my surgery so I replaced my tragus piercing with a plastic one. I think the piercing got irritated and I developed a really red bump next to it. You think this could have any effect on my surgery?

[Ms skinniness 3,003]

Can you put some antibiotic cream on it? You might be able to call your surgeon's office today an talk with an attending surgeon so you can cancel if it's a problem in their eyes.

[LynnD 7]

I am so tempted to call them now but it's almost 1:00 am here!! I already cleaned it and put some antibiotic. I really hope it isn't an issue!

[BrokeMyHalo 107]

I think you will be just fine. Also, take some warm Water and salt in a small cup and submerge your piercing, this helps pull the infection out. Ointments aren't that great for piercings.

[LynnD 7]

I tried the salt and Water soaks before but they never worked. Maybe I was doing them wrong..

[BrokeMyHalo 107]

I tried the salt and Water soaks before but they never worked. Maybe I was doing them wrong..

Ointments stop the airflow... I would use salt/water until you can talk to your piercer.

[LynnD 7]

My piercer.. I got it pierced in Paris. In Dubai, tattoo and piercing parlors are illegal. I'll try out the salt/water again though! Thanks for the advice and I really hope it doesn't change my surgery plans!

[Annie B 89]

Unless you're running a fever, I don't think it will interfere with your surgery.