Keloids are excess scar tissue that develops at the location of a skin injury, like a piercing. They often occur as a result of piercings and can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Although keloids are frequently seen with ear piercings, they can also happen with other types, such as belly button piercings.
Managing Keloids from Belly Button Piercings
- Keloids are raised, overgrown scars that can develop after belly button piercings due to excess collagen production.
- Individuals with darker skin tones or a family history of keloids are more prone to developing these scars.
- Improper piercing aftercare, infections, or allergic reactions to nickel in jewelry can increase the risk of keloid formation.
- Non-invasive treatments like silicone gels and invasive methods like corticosteroid injections or surgery can effectively treat keloids.
- Prevent keloids by using hypoallergenic jewelry, following proper aftercare, and choosing an experienced piercer.
Keloids and Belly Button Piercings
A keloid from a belly button piercing looks like a raised scar. It feels hard and rubbery. The keloid appears at the piercing site and may extend beyond it. It has a shiny, smooth, and round appearance. Its colors can vary from pink to purple to brownish. Keloids form when the skin produces excess fibrous tissue, often due to an overproduction of collagen.
Identifying a Keloid from Your Belly Button Piercing
It is important to be able to differentiate between a normal piercing healing process and the formation of a keloid. A keloid can take 3 to 12 months to first appear after the initial piercing, and it can take even longer in some cases. Unlike regular scars that are restricted to the original injury site, keloids can spread beyond the initial damaged skin, which makes them distinctly different from other types of scars.
Signs and Symptoms of a Keloid from Belly Button Piercing
Keloid scars often present themselves in a variety of colors, typically appearing red, pink, or purple initially. Over time, these keloid scars tend to darken, a characteristic feature of this skin condition. The texture of these keloids can vary, with some being quite hard and rubbery, akin to an abundance of fibrous tissue beneath the layers of skin. However, not all keloids share this consistency. Some keloids are softer and have a doughy texture, demonstrating the different kinds of keloids that can form.
Causes of Keloids from Belly Button Piercings
There are several factors that contribute to the formation of keloids from belly button piercings.
Genetic Predisposition
People with darker skin tones, particularly those between the ages of 10 and 30, have a higher likelihood of developing keloids. This risk is also present for individuals with a family history of keloids, such as a first-degree relative affected by them. Genetic skin disorders may contribute to this, making certain skin types, especially darker skin, more susceptible to keloid formation.
Improper Aftercare and Hygiene
Infections in new piercings, including belly button piercings, are quite common and can be a significant factor in keloid formation. These infections can occur if the needle used in the piercing is not sterile, leading to an abundance of bacteria in the wound. This can trigger an overgrowth of scar tissue, resulting in the formation of keloids.
A person’s inability to keep the piercing completely clean can also contribute to the likelihood of keloids. The healing process post-piercing requires diligent aftercare, including the use of gentle solutions like saline or tea tree oil, to prevent bacterial growth and subsequent infections.
Allergic Reactions to Jewelry
Nickel is a common element in various types of jewelry and is often responsible for most jewelry allergies. This metal is typically present in more affordable jewelry, which makes it a common risk factor for individuals who choose budget-friendly options for piercing jewelry.
However, it’s important to note that even gold or silver jewelry, which are generally considered safer options, may contain trace amounts of nickel. This is due to the fact that nickel is often mixed with these precious metals to enhance their strength and durability.
Even these higher-end pieces can potentially trigger an allergic reaction, leading to complications such as keloid formation.
SPECIALIST CARE YOU CAN TRUST
Dr. Salloum is supported by a brilliant team of caring staff members.
You can trust the entire staff to help make your visit as comfortable and safe as possible!
Treating Keloids from Belly Button Piercings
Treatment for keloids includes both non-invasive and invasive methods.
Seeking Professional Help from a Dermatologist or Piercer
To start treating a keloid, it’s important to consult a professional. A dermatologist or piercer can offer advice and suggest the best treatment options.
Non-Invasive Treatments Like Silicone Sheets or Gels
Non-invasive treatments, such as silicone dressings or self-drying silicone gel, can significantly aid in the management of keloids, particularly those resulting from belly button piercings. These treatments work by applying gentle pressure to the keloid, helping to reduce its size and alter its appearance.
Invasive Treatments Such as Corticosteroid Injections or Surgical Removal
Invasive treatments such as corticosteroid injections or keloid removal surgery can be effective in treating keloids. Corticosteroids can help shrink the keloid, with most people requiring about four injections on average, having one every 3–4 weeks. About 50–80% of keloids shrink after corticosteroid injection.
Preventing Keloids in the Future
There are several steps you can take to prevent the formation of keloids in the future.
Choose a Professional and Experienced Piercer
Choosing a professional and experienced piercer can help prevent complications and reduce the risk of keloid formation.
Follow Proper Aftercare Instructions
Following aftercare instructions is important for preventing infections and minimizing the risk of keloids, especially with belly button piercings. This typically involves cleaning the piercing area with mild solutions, steering clear of creams that contain lanolin or hydrogen peroxide as they may irritate the skin, and opting for hypoallergenic jewelry like surgical steel to avoid allergic reactions.
Avoid Excessive Movement or Trauma to the Piercing
Avoiding excessive movement or trauma to the piercing is a crucial step in preventing the formation of keloids, a type of scar tissue that can result from body piercing injuries. This is particularly important in the case of belly button piercing keloids, also known as umbilical keloids, which can form on the abdominal skin following a belly piercing.
Use Hypoallergenic Jewelry
Using hypoallergenic jewelry not only prevents allergic reactions but also plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of keloid formation, ensuring optimal skin health and comfort.
Treating Keloids Properly
While keloids from belly button piercings can be a distressing issue, remember that they are manageable and preventable. It’s important to seek professional help if you suspect a keloid is forming. Take proactive steps in your piercing aftercare to prevent their occurrence.
Remember that everyone’s body responds differently to piercings, so what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re in the Miami area and need expert advice or treatment for keloids, consider reaching out to Dr. Gabriel Salloum at the Miami Center for Plastic Surgery by contacting us or calling 305-405-6910. His expertise in keloid management can provide you with the guidance and care you need.