Ear gauging is a type of body modification where you use different size ear gauges to stretch the earlobe to form a through hole. Ear stretching is popular in Western culture, but individuals modify the ear for many different reasons, including religious, spiritual or just for fun.
History
The history or ear gauging dates back to Egyptian times, but they are popular in the Asian culture. According to Dr. Barry Eppley, a reconstructive plastic surgeon, ear stretching is tissue expansion, which evolved in the early 1980s. Tissue expansion is common in breast reconstruction after mastectomy and in pediatric scalp reconstruction.
Significance
If you are planning to stretch your ears, do not rush. The process takes a gradual increase to prevent necrosis of the skin or adverse side effects from occurring. Familiarizing yourself with the sizing of the ear gauges is integral in the process; the lower the number the larger the hole.
Types
The types of ear gauges available include plugs, tunnels, tapers and spirals. Many are available in acrylic, bone, stone, stainless, organic, wood or silicone material. Plugs are generally solid and you will find them with various designs. Tunnels are similar to plugs, except they have a hole bored out of the center. You will notice some individuals who insert hoops through the tunnels. Tapers are cone-shaped and come with a rubber o-ring to prevent it from falling out of your ear. The spiral is similar to the taper with a point, but shaped like a cursive letter e, according to the eargauges.net website.
Side Effects
Allergic reaction, embedded gauges, infection, keloid or scar formation, abscess and traumatic tearing are the most common side effects reported while undergoing ear stretching, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. During the ear gauging process, if you notice severe redness, inflammation, pain, have a green to yellow discharge with odor, red streaks coming from the piercing site, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, dizziness or disorientation that lasts for one week or more, seek medical attention. These symptoms can be a sign of either an allergic reaction or a serious infection, according to the Association of Professional Piercers.
Ear Care
Proper ear care is important whether you are undergoing your first piercing or through the ear stretching process. Using strong cleaning products, such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, harsh soaps and ointments may inhibit the healing process and are not recommended during the healing process by the Association of Professional Piercers. To clean your ear area during the process, use a mild, non-iodized sea-salt mixed with water to make a saline soak, and a liquid antimicrobial or germicidal soap twice daily.
Considerations
When you are purchasing the ear stretchers, make sure you use materials that you are not allergic to. Most jewelry is made of stainless steel, gold, titanium or alloys, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Find body jewelry that you can easily remove in case of an emergency, and with smooth surfaces to prevent injury from occurring.
