Can You Change a Nose Piercing to a Septum Piercing and Other FAQs

In the world of piercings, it's essential to understand the differences and limitations of altering body piercings. This article will explore the possibility of changing nose piercings to septum piercings, as well as answers to other common questions regarding piercings.

Can You Change a Nose Piercing to a Septum Piercing?

Yes, you can change a nose piercing to a septum piercing, though it's a process that requires careful planning and execution. Most people can do this themselves, but it can be more challenging and will likely cause more bleeding and pain than your first nose piercing. I underwent this process twice in 2019 and 2021, and the experience was quite intense. It involves breaking the initial jewelry and replacing it with a septum stud. However, professional help might be necessary for some individuals if they have difficulty with hand-eye coordination or visual impairment.

It's important to note that if you mean changing a nostril piercing to a septum piercing, the answer is no. These piercings are located in different areas of the nose. A septum piercing requires piercing through the septum, which makes direct conversion impossible without a new piercing.

How to Change a Nose Piercing to a Septum Piercing

The process of changing a nose piercing to a septum piercing typically follows these steps:

Prepare for the change: Ensure the nose piercing is fully healed for at least 6-8 weeks. This reduces the risk of complications during the change and reduces the time required for healing the new piercing.

Break the nose piercing jewelry: Use a piercing kit or pliers to carefully break the original jewelry. Be cautious to avoid any sharp edges that could cause injury.

Insert the septum stud: Use a sterile needle or piercing setter tool to insert the new septum stud. This should be done in a clean and hygienic environment to minimize the risk of infection.

Secure the new piercing: Apply a bandage to protect the new piercing and keep it clean. This will also help in minimizing bleeding and maintaining hygiene.

Post-procedure, it's crucial to keep the new piercing clean and free from infection. It might take several weeks for the septum piercing to fully heal, and you may notice increased bleeding and discomfort as the body adjusts to the new jewelry.

Additional Questions About Piercings

Here are some more common questions and their answers regarding body piercings:

Q: Can a first-time piercing be changed immediately?

A: No, a first-time piercing should not be changed immediately. It's important to allow the initial ring to sit for at least 6-8 weeks to ensure proper healing. Changing the jewelry before this period can lead to inflammation, infection, or even organ prolapse in nasal piercings.

Q: How do I care for a new piercing?

A: Proper care is crucial for the successful healing of any piercing. Clean the piercing gently with a saline solution or specially formulated piercing cleaner, and avoid touching it excessively. Change the jewelry regularly to prevent a build-up of bacteria, which can cause infections.

Q: Can I wear jewelry that is too big or too small?

A: It's generally advised to have the correct gauge of jewelry. Wearing jewelry that is too large can cause tearing and damage, while jewelry that is too small can cause irritation and inflammation. It's best to consult a professional piercer to ensure the correct gauge and type of jewelry is used.

Conclusion

Changing a nose piercing to a septum piercing is possible but requires careful consideration and proper execution. Always prioritize your safety and the health of the piercing by consulting professionals or experienced piercers when making significant changes. With the right care, the transition can be smooth and successful.