A septum piercing, that bold and beautiful statement adorning the center of your face, is a popular form of body modification. But what happens when you decide to retire it? How long does a septum piercing take to close, and what factors influence this process? This comprehensive guide dives into the intricacies of septum piercing closure, offering insights into the healing stages, potential complications, and aftercare considerations.
The Septum Piercing Healing Journey
Understanding the healing process is crucial for determining how quickly a septum piercing will close. It’s not a simple “plug and play” scenario; various biological processes are at play.
Initial Healing Phase (Weeks 1-3)
The first few weeks after getting a septum piercing are characterized by initial swelling, redness, and tenderness. Your body is actively working to heal the wound, forming a layer of new tissue around the jewelry. During this phase, the piercing is highly susceptible to infection. Consistent cleaning with a saline solution is paramount to prevent complications. Avoid touching or rotating the jewelry unnecessarily as this can introduce bacteria and disrupt the healing process. Think of this stage as the body’s initial emergency response.
Secondary Healing Phase (Months 1-6)
As the initial inflammation subsides, the piercing enters a secondary healing phase. This is where the fistula, the channel of skin that forms around the jewelry, begins to solidify. While the piercing may appear healed on the outside, the internal tissues are still delicate. You might experience occasional crusting or discharge, which is normal. Continue cleaning the piercing regularly, although less frequently than during the initial healing phase. Be patient; this stage requires time and consistency.
Long-Term Healing and Maturation (Months 6+)
Even after six months, the piercing is still considered to be maturing. The skin around the fistula is strengthening and becoming more resilient. However, it’s still possible for the piercing to shrink or close if the jewelry is removed for an extended period, especially if the piercing is relatively new. Consider this period a maintenance phase where continued care contributes to the long-term stability of the piercing.
Factors Influencing Septum Piercing Closure Time
The time it takes for a septum piercing to close varies significantly from person to person. Numerous factors play a role, influencing the speed and completeness of the closure.
Piercing Age: A Key Determinant
The age of the piercing is one of the most significant factors. A newer piercing, even one that appears healed, will close much faster than a piercing that has been in place for several years. A piercing that’s only a few months old can potentially close within a matter of days, while a well-established piercing may take weeks or even months to close completely. Older piercings have a more established fistula, making them less prone to rapid closure.
Individual Healing Rate: Genetics and Health
Everyone heals at a different rate, influenced by genetics, overall health, and lifestyle choices. Some individuals are naturally faster healers, while others may experience slower healing due to underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems. Factors like smoking, poor nutrition, and chronic stress can also impede the healing process and affect closure time. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and adequate hydration, can positively impact your body’s ability to heal.
Jewelry Material and Gauge
The type of jewelry used can impact the healing process and, consequently, the closure time. High-quality, hypoallergenic materials like surgical steel or titanium are generally recommended, as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. The gauge (thickness) of the jewelry also matters. Larger gauge piercings tend to take longer to close than smaller gauge piercings, as there is more tissue involved.
Aftercare Routine: Consistency is Key
Proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing and can indirectly affect closure time. Consistent cleaning with a saline solution helps prevent infection and promotes healthy tissue growth. Neglecting aftercare can lead to complications that prolong the healing process and potentially increase the likelihood of scarring or a more rapid closure once jewelry is removed.
What to Expect When You Remove Your Septum Piercing
Removing your septum piercing is a personal decision. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare for the changes your body will undergo.
Initial Shrinkage: The First Stage
The first thing you’ll likely notice after removing your jewelry is that the piercing begins to shrink. This happens relatively quickly, as the skin starts to contract. The extent of the shrinkage depends on the factors mentioned above, such as piercing age and gauge. You may notice that the hole becomes noticeably smaller within a few hours or days.
Fistula Closure: Filling the Gap
As the piercing continues to close, the fistula (the tissue-lined channel) begins to fill in. The body essentially treats the piercing like a small wound, gradually repairing the tissue and closing the gap. This process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the individual and the characteristics of the piercing. The rate at which the fistula closes can vary significantly.
Scar Tissue Formation: A Natural Response
As the piercing closes, scar tissue may form. The amount of scar tissue varies from person to person, and some individuals may experience minimal scarring, while others may develop a more noticeable scar. Proper aftercare during the closure process can help minimize scarring. Keeping the area clean and moisturized can promote healthy skin regeneration.
Can You Reopen a Closed Septum Piercing?
The possibility of reopening a closed septum piercing depends on how long it has been closed and how completely it has healed.
Recently Closed Piercings: A Good Chance
If the piercing has only been closed for a short period (a few weeks or months), there’s a good chance that you can reopen it. The fistula may still be partially open, making it easier to reinsert jewelry. However, it’s crucial to do so with caution. Trying to force jewelry into a partially closed piercing can cause pain, damage, and potentially lead to infection. Consulting a professional piercer is highly recommended.
Long-Term Closure: More Challenging
If the piercing has been closed for an extended period (several months or years), the fistula is likely to have completely closed, and scar tissue may have formed. In this case, reopening the piercing is more challenging and may require re-piercing. Attempting to reopen a completely closed piercing on your own is strongly discouraged, as it can lead to significant damage and infection.
Seeking Professional Advice: The Best Approach
If you’re considering reopening a closed septum piercing, the best course of action is to consult a professional piercer. They can assess the condition of the piercing, determine the likelihood of successful reopening, and provide guidance on the best approach. In some cases, they may recommend re-piercing the septum.
Tips for Managing Septum Piercing Closure
If you’ve decided to remove your septum piercing, there are steps you can take to promote proper healing and minimize complications.
Keep it Clean: Hygiene First
Maintaining good hygiene is essential. Clean the area around the piercing twice a day with a saline solution. This helps prevent infection and promotes healthy tissue regeneration. Avoid using harsh soaps or chemicals that can irritate the skin.
Moisturize: Hydrate the Area
Keeping the area moisturized can help minimize scarring. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin supple and hydrated. Avoid using petroleum-based products, as they can clog pores and impede healing.
Avoid Touching: Hands Off!
Resist the urge to touch or play with the area. Touching can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. Allow the piercing to close naturally without interference.
Monitor for Infection: Watch for Signs
Keep a close eye on the area for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention promptly.
Closing a septum piercing is a journey influenced by multiple factors. While timelines can vary, understanding the healing process and adopting proper aftercare practices can ensure a smooth transition. Remember, consulting with a professional piercer is always the best approach for personalized advice and guidance.
How long does it generally take for a septum piercing to close?
The time it takes for a septum piercing to close varies significantly from person to person, depending on several factors including how long you’ve had the piercing, your body’s healing capabilities, and the gauge of the jewelry. Newly healed piercings, even those that have been established for a few months, can start to shrink noticeably within hours or days of removing the jewelry. This is because the body actively works to heal the opening and restore the skin to its natural state.
For septum piercings that have been in place for several years, the closing process can still happen relatively quickly, but it might not completely close. While the hole may shrink considerably, sometimes a small indentation or a trace of the piercing will remain, even after extended periods without jewelry. This is due to the formation of a permanent fistula, a tissue-lined tunnel that can persist even if the piercing appears to have closed superficially.
What factors affect how quickly a septum piercing closes?
One major factor is the length of time you’ve had the piercing. A piercing that’s been in place for several years, allowing a strong fistula to form, will generally take longer to close compared to a piercing that’s only a few months old. The body has established a more permanent structure in the older piercing, making it more resistant to closing completely.
Another critical factor is individual healing ability. Some people naturally heal faster than others, and this can influence the speed at which a septum piercing closes. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as smoking or a poor diet can hinder the healing process, potentially causing the piercing to close more slowly or with more complications like infection or prolonged irritation.
Will my septum piercing definitely close if I remove the jewelry?
While most septum piercings will shrink significantly after removing the jewelry, complete closure is not always guaranteed. The likelihood of complete closure depends on the factors mentioned previously, primarily the age of the piercing and your body’s healing ability. Newer piercings are more likely to close entirely.
Even if the piercing appears to have closed on the surface, a small channel or indentation might remain beneath the skin. This is because the body may not completely break down the established fistula, especially in piercings that have been in place for a considerable time. While the piercing may no longer be usable without re-piercing, a subtle mark could persist.
What can I do to help my septum piercing close faster if I want it to?
Unfortunately, there aren’t any scientifically proven methods to drastically accelerate the closing process of a septum piercing. The body’s natural healing mechanisms dictate the speed at which the piercing closes. However, maintaining good hygiene can help prevent infections and promote healthy skin regeneration, which might indirectly influence the closing process.
Refraining from stretching or manipulating the piercing site is also recommended. Avoid touching or picking at the area, as this can irritate the tissue and potentially slow down the natural healing process. Simply keeping the area clean and allowing your body to do its work is the best approach.
What are the risks of letting a septum piercing close on its own?
Generally, allowing a septum piercing to close on its own poses minimal risks. The primary concern is the potential for infection if the piercing is not kept clean while it’s closing. Trapped bacteria can lead to inflammation, redness, and even pus formation.
Another potential issue is the formation of scar tissue. As the piercing closes, the body naturally produces collagen to fill the gap. In some cases, this can lead to a small bump or knot of scar tissue forming at the piercing site, although this is usually not a serious health concern. Keeping the area clean and avoiding irritation can minimize the likelihood of complications.
Can I re-pierce my septum after it has closed?
In many cases, it is possible to re-pierce a septum after it has closed, but it’s crucial to consult with a professional piercer. They can assess the area and determine if the tissue is suitable for re-piercing and avoid piercing through any scar tissue that may have formed, which could lead to complications.
The re-piercing process might be slightly more sensitive than the initial piercing, depending on the amount of scar tissue present. The piercer will aim to re-establish the piercing in the same location as before, minimizing the risk of a crooked or misaligned piercing. It’s vital to follow the piercer’s aftercare instructions diligently to ensure proper healing and avoid infection.
Will a closed septum piercing leave a noticeable scar?
The likelihood and severity of scarring after a septum piercing closes depend on various factors. Smaller gauge piercings that have been in place for a shorter time are less likely to leave a significant scar. The body can often heal the small hole with minimal visible trace.
However, larger gauge piercings or piercings that have been in place for many years are more likely to leave a noticeable scar. This scar might appear as a small indentation, a slightly discolored patch of skin, or a small bump of scar tissue. The appearance of the scar can also vary based on individual skin type and healing tendencies. Proper aftercare while the piercing is closing can help minimize scarring.