Can I get cauliflower ear from a piercing?

It is possible to develop cauliflower ear (hematoma auris) from complications of a piercing, although this is not common.

Cauliflower ear occurs when the cartilage in the ear is damaged and blood pools between the cartilage and the skin, which can lead to scarring and ear deformity. This is more common due to trauma, such as in martial arts or contact sports, but a piercing can also damage the cartilage of the ear and lead to this problem, especially if there is an infection.

A poorly performed or poorly healed piercing can become infected, leading to swelling, blood pooling, and cartilage damage. Wearing heavy jewelry or accidentally bumping the piercing can cause damage to the cartilage. If the piercing is not cared for properly, it can lead to complications such as infection or cartilage trauma.

See a professional piercer with experience in cartilage piercings. Clean the piercing regularly as instructed by the piercer. Avoid wearing heavy jewelry or exposing it to trauma until the piercing is fully healed.

The risk is small, but by taking good care and precautions, you can usually prevent complications such as cauliflower ear.

Source: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-laryngology-and-otology/article/abs/evaluating-ear-cartilage-piercing-practices-in-london-uk/0707340A8CC15F76D460D37C2BE1ADD2

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-09-08 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024