Nose Piercing Using Laser

Nose piercing is a cult-like tradition in India. Nose piercing was introduced in India by Moghul Emperors during the 16 century. The left nostril of Hindu girls as young as five years old is pierced. On the wedding night, the bride wears a Nath (Nose ring). The Nath is hooked by a chain to either the earring or hair. The bridegroom removes the Nath, symbolizing end of bride’s virginity. A widow does not wear any jewel in the pierced nose.

Typically the left nostril is favored because in Ayurvedic medicine, the left nostril is associated with the female reproductive organs, and a piercing in that position is thought to make childbirth easier as well as lessen the amount of menstrual pain.

Any piercing may have potential complications. Nose piercing complications could involve infection, redness, swelling, keloid (scar) formation, possible swallowing of nose jewelry that comes loose, jewelry backing becoming embedded, or nose rings pulled out. Piercing between the nose should not go through the cartilage, but through the skin just below. If the nose cartilage is accidentally pierced, then more serious complications could arise such as significant bleeding, infection, and cosmetic deformity.

Depending on the country, religion, and culture, nose piercing is very common in women and considered a mark of prestige or beauty, especially in India, Pakistan and Middle East. Nose piercing is growing in popularity in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. The side of the nose pierced is a personal decision. According to the religion the site of nose piercing vary, also the location, on the left side in Northern India, but on the right Southern India.

Nose piercing Procedure-by Sterile Needle under local anesthesia-Done routinely in minor OT under sterile precaution.(see picture)

Laser Nose piercing

Using a special probe Nose piercing can be done safely with a Co2 laser after giving little local anesthesia.(see picture)

Dr Paulose is an ENT Consultant Plastic and Laser Surgeon with over 35 years of experience covering in Ear, Nose and Throat procedures, specializing in Laser Surgery and conventional medicine across India, U.K. and Middle East. He is currently engaged with the Jubilee Hospital, in Kerala, India.