Complications of cosmetic piercings and tattoos in the head and neck region

• Published in: HNO Vol. 68; no. 2; p. 131
• Main Authors: Hackenberg, B, Große-Büning, S, Hammes, S, Strieth, S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: German
• Published: Germany 01-02-2020
• Subjects: Body Piercing - adverse effects; Cosmetic Techniques - adverse effects; Humans; Hypersensitivity - etiology; Tattooing - adverse effects; Soft-tissue infections; Skin pigmentation; Allergic reactions; Cosmetic techniques; Non-therapeutic body modification
• ISSN: 1433-0458
• DOI: 10.1007/s00106-019-00808-w

Piercings and tattoos have gained popularity across all cultural environments during the past century, and one in ten Europeans are now pierced. While tattoos are often restricted to the rest of the body, piercings are common at facial sites such as ears, nose, lips, and tongue. Complications following piercings are not uncommon. Infections can rapidly spread across the auricular cartilage and require antibiotic and often surgical treatment. Mild trauma (i.e., piercing the earlobe) can lead to excessive scar formation due to fibroblast proliferation. Keloids have a particularly high rate of recurrence and are therefore difficult to treat. Due to recent developments in the field of permanent makeup, tattooing techniques are also increasingly applied in the head and neck region. Here, complications such as infection or allergic reactions can occur. Topical medication or laser procedures are the usual therapeutic options.