If your belly button piercing has been healed for years but you want to start wearing a ring again, you may be curious how to go about it. Can you simply slide your old ring back in, or will you need to get it repierced? Reinserting naval jewelry into a fully closed piercing takes some care.
In short, an original belly button piercing will be completely sealed after about 1-2 years without jewelry. This means getting it redone by a piercer. But take certain precautions, and be patient with healing. Read on for a full step-by-step guide on putting a belly ring back in after years away.
How Long Does It Take a Belly Button Piercing to Close?
When it comes to taking out a belly button piercing and putting it back in after years, one of the main concerns is how long it takes for the piercing to close up. Here, we will discuss the two main timeframes to keep in mind: the initial healing timeframe and the fully closing up over years.
Initial Healing Timeframe
After getting a belly button piercing, it typically takes around 6 to 12 months for the piercing to fully heal. During this time, it is important to follow proper aftercare instructions provided by the piercer to ensure a successful healing process.
This includes cleaning the piercing regularly with a saline solution and avoiding any activities that may irritate or damage the piercing.
During the initial healing period, it is generally not recommended to remove the belly button ring unless necessary. Removing the jewelry too soon can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
If you do need to remove the belly button ring temporarily, it is advisable to consult with a professional piercer to ensure proper reinsertion.
Fully Closing Up Over Years
If you have had your belly button piercing for several years and want to put the ring back in, you may be wondering if the piercing will still be open. The answer to this depends on various factors, including individual differences in healing, how well the piercing was taken care of, and the length of time since the piercing was last worn.
While some people may find that their belly button piercing remains open even after years of not wearing jewelry, others may experience partial or complete closure. It is important to note that the longer the piercing has been without jewelry, the higher the chances of it closing up.
If you are attempting to put a belly button ring back in after an extended period, it is recommended to start with a smaller gauge jewelry and gently stretch the piercing over time. This can help prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of tearing or damaging the piercing.
It is always a good idea to consult with a professional piercer who can assess the condition of your piercing and provide guidance on the best approach for reinserting the belly button ring.
For more information on belly button piercing and aftercare, you can visit reputable websites such as https://www.safepiercing.org/ or https://www.mayoclinic.org/.
Getting the Original Piercing Redone
So, you’ve decided to put your belly button ring back in after several years. Whether it’s because you miss the way it looked or you simply want to embrace your body’s unique style, getting your original piercing redone can be an exciting experience.
However, it’s important to be well-informed about the process and what to expect. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind:
Finding a Reputable Piercer
When getting your belly button piercing redone, it’s crucial to find a reputable piercer. Look for someone who has experience in belly button piercings and a clean, sterile environment. You can ask for recommendations from friends who have had successful piercings or do some research online.
Websites like safepiercing.org provide a directory of professional piercers who adhere to strict safety and hygiene standards.
Piercing Technique and Jewelry Considerations
Once you’ve found a reputable piercer, they will guide you through the piercing technique and help you choose the right jewelry for your belly button. It’s important to discuss your previous piercing experience, any allergies or sensitivities you may have, and your desired jewelry style.
Your piercer will assess the condition of your old piercing and determine if any additional measures need to be taken.
When it comes to jewelry, there are various options to choose from. Some people prefer to keep the same style they had before, while others may opt for something new and different. Your piercer will help you select the appropriate gauge, length, and material for your new belly button ring.
Common materials include surgical steel, titanium, and gold.
It’s worth noting that the healing process for a redone belly button piercing may be slightly different compared to a fresh piercing. Your piercer will provide you with aftercare instructions, including cleaning techniques and any precautions you need to take.
Caring for the Piercing During Healing
Cleaning and Aftercare
Proper cleaning and aftercare are crucial when putting a belly button ring back in after years. It is important to keep the piercing clean to prevent infection and promote healing. The first step is to wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching the piercing.
Then, gently clean the area around the piercing with a saline solution or an antiseptic solution recommended by your piercer. Avoid using alcohol-based products, as they can be too harsh and irritate the skin. Pat the area dry with a clean towel or let it air dry.
During the healing process, it is important not to twist or turn the jewelry excessively. This can cause irritation and delay the healing process. If you notice any crust or discharge around the piercing, gently clean it with a cotton swab soaked in saline solution or warm water.
Avoid using cotton balls or tissues, as they may leave fibers behind.
Avoiding Infection and Irritation
Preventing infection and irritation is crucial when putting a belly button ring back in after years. To minimize the risk of infection, avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands and avoid exposing it to dirty or contaminated objects.
It is also important to avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water until the piercing is fully healed.
Wearing loose-fitting clothing can also help to prevent irritation. Tight clothing can rub against the piercing and cause discomfort or even lead to infection. Opt for breathable fabrics and avoid wearing belts or waistbands that may put pressure on the piercing.
If you experience any signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or discharge with an unpleasant odor, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can assess the situation and provide appropriate treatment.
For more information on belly button piercing aftercare, you can visit the Association of Professional Piercers website. They provide valuable resources and guidelines to ensure the proper care and healing of body piercings.
What to Expect During the Healing Process
Putting a belly button ring back in after years can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to understand the healing process that comes with it. Here’s what you can expect during the healing process:
Swelling, Discomfort, Bleeding
After reinserting your belly button ring, it is normal to experience some swelling, discomfort, and even minor bleeding. This is because the piercing hole may have closed up or become smaller over time.
As you put the ring back in, the tissues around the piercing will need to readjust, which can cause temporary discomfort. However, with proper care and cleaning, these symptoms should subside within a few days.
During this time, it’s crucial to keep the pierced area clean to prevent infection. Clean the area with a saline solution or an antiseptic solution recommended by a professional piercer. Avoid touching the area with dirty hands and refrain from changing the jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.
How Long Until Fully Healed
The healing time for a belly button piercing can vary from person to person. On average, it can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months for a belly button piercing to fully heal. However, after reinserting a belly button ring after years, the healing time may be slightly shorter compared to a fresh piercing.
During the healing process, it’s important to avoid any activities that could irritate or damage the piercing. This includes avoiding tight clothing that puts pressure on the piercing, swimming in pools or hot tubs, and exposing the piercing to excessive moisture or sweat.
It’s also crucial to be patient during the healing process. While it may be tempting to change the jewelry or touch the piercing, doing so can disrupt the healing and potentially lead to complications.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer and monitor the healing progress regularly.
Remember, every individual’s healing process is unique, so don’t compare your healing time to others. If you have any concerns or notice any abnormal symptoms during the healing process, it’s best to consult with a professional piercer or a healthcare provider.
FAQs: Repiercing a Belly Button Ring
If you’ve had your belly button pierced in the past and are considering putting a belly button ring back in after years, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about repiercing a belly button ring:
1. Is it possible to repierce a belly button after it has closed?
Yes, it is usually possible to repierce a belly button after it has closed. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s body is different, and the ease of repiercing may vary from person to person.
It’s best to consult with a professional piercer who can assess your individual situation and provide guidance.
2. Will the repiercing process be the same as the initial piercing?
The repiercing process may be similar to the initial piercing, but it can also be slightly different. Since your belly button has already been pierced before, the piercer may need to navigate scar tissue or determine the best placement for the new piercing.
They will also take into account your previous piercing experience and any potential complications that may arise.
3. How long should I wait after the previous piercing has closed to repierce?
The recommended waiting time before repiercing a belly button can vary. It’s generally advised to wait at least 6-12 months after the previous piercing has fully closed. This allows enough time for the skin to heal and reduces the risk of infection or complications during the repiercing process.
4. What should I expect during the repiercing procedure?
During the repiercing procedure, the piercer will first clean the area and mark the new piercing placement. They will then use a sterilized needle or piercing gun to create the new hole. The process may cause some discomfort or pain, but it is usually quick and tolerable.
After the piercing is complete, the piercer will provide aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.
5. Are there any risks or complications associated with repiercing a belly button?
While repiercing a belly button is generally safe, there are some risks and potential complications to be aware of. These can include infection, allergic reactions, excessive bleeding, or scarring. It’s important to follow proper aftercare instructions, keep the piercing clean, and seek professional help if any issues arise.
For more information on belly button piercings and repiercing, you can visit reputable websites such as Mayo Clinic or The Piercing Bible.
Conclusion
While it takes patience and professional help, repiercing your belly button after years of having it healed is certainly achievable. Give the new piercing ample time to heal properly, and be diligent with aftercare. Within a few months, you can safely have your belly ring back in!
