6.2e Healing Problems: Hypergranulation
Description
This article is from the Piercing FAQ, by Anne Greenblatt with numerous contributions by others.
6.2e Healing Problems: Hypergranulation
During the proliferation phase of healing, granulation tissue forms
along the inner surface of the piercing. Occasionally a piercing will
develop excess granulation tissue, a condition described as
hypergranulation. Excess granulation tissue is red or dark pink and
often forms a raw-looking, visibly layered bump that appears to erupt
from the entrance(s). Capillaries will grow into the tissue, and
hence the tissue will often bleed when disturbed. This condition is
usually not painful, but the piercing may be more susceptible to
infection. Hypergranulation prevents epithelialization and the healing
process is arrested.
While hypergranulation can affect any piercing, piercings in moist
areas which are also subject to prolonged physical irritation appear
to be particularly vulnerable. Prolonged physical irritation or
pressure exerted on the piercing may push the granulation tissue out
of the piercing where it continues to form. Removing the source of
irritation and keeping the piercing dry will often allow the piercing
to heal correctly.
Because granulation tissue is very delicate, it can sometimes be
removed by wiping with a cotton swab or gauze sponge. Excess tissue
may also be excised. However, in some cases the condition often
persists and excess tissue will continue to form. If hypergranulation
is persistent, the piercing may have to be abandoned.
The most common method of removing excess granulation tissue is
chemical cautery with silver nitrate. When silver nitrate contacts the
tissue, the tissue dies almost immediately and may be wiped away. Most
physicians encourage patients to remove their jewelry (and abandon
their piercing) to ensure successful treatment.
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