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Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe and evaluate an ear piercing and earring retention method for individuals with metal hypersensitivity.

SETTING: Private facial plastic surgery practice associated with a tertiary care medical center.

METHODS: Thirty-one patients with a history of hypersensitivity to metallic jewelry (62 ears) underwent earlobe piercing with an intravenous catheter.

RESULTS: None of the patients experienced an infection or hypersensitivity reaction. All patients were able to wear nickel-free earrings for short periods without using the shortened catheter.

CONCLUSION: Using the distal shaft of an intravenous catheter as an earring post sheath is a safe and effective technique that allows hypersensitive individuals to wear earrings in pierced ears on a limited basis.

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Ear Piercing for Individuals with Metal Hypersensitivity

Abstract

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References