What should I do if I accidentally applied super glue around an earring where the back has possibly grown over in my upper ear?

Management of Embedded Earring with Superglue in the Upper Ear

For an embedded earring in the upper ear with superglue around it, you should seek professional medical care for safe removal, as this requires specialized techniques to prevent damage to the ear cartilage.

Assessment of the Situation

• Embedded earrings in the upper ear (cartilage area) are a recognized complication of ear piercings that can lead to infection and tissue damage 1
• The presence of superglue complicates the situation as it can adhere to skin and potentially damage the ear canal or cartilage if removed improperly 2, 3
• Cartilage infections (auricular perichondritis) are more serious than earlobe infections and can lead to permanent cosmetic deformity if not treated properly 1, 4

Immediate Management

• Do not attempt to remove the earring or superglue yourself as this could damage the ear cartilage or cause tearing of the tissue 1
• Do not apply any solvents or solutions without medical supervision as they may cause further irritation or damage 1
• Monitor for signs of infection including increasing pain, redness, warmth, or swelling around the piercing site 4

Professional Medical Management

• A healthcare provider can safely remove the embedded earring and superglue using appropriate techniques 1, 4:

  • For superglue removal, medical professionals may use warm 3% hydrogen peroxide which can help dissolve the glue and allow for removal as a cast 2
  • In some cases, sequential use of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid has been successful for removing superglue from the ear canal 3
  • Acetone has also been used under microscopic guidance by specialists to remove superglue from the external ear 5

• If the area is infected or painful, a local anesthetic block of the ear may be performed to facilitate comfortable removal 6

• If gentle probing fails to locate an embedded earring, a small incision under local anesthesia may be necessary to locate and remove the earring or backing 1

Post-Removal Care

• Any suspected infection should be treated with appropriate antibiotics 1, 4
• For cartilage infections, fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin) are recommended as they are effective against common pathogens including Pseudomonas aeruginosa 1, 4
• If an abscess is present, surgical drainage may be necessary 1
• Wait at least 6-8 weeks after complete resolution of any swelling or tenderness before considering repiercing the ear 1, 4

Prevention of Future Complications

• Consider using earrings with locking or screw backs to prevent embedding 1
• Remove earrings at bedtime if they cause pressure sores or skin irritation 1
• Avoid using superglue near piercings or in the ear 7

When to Seek Emergency Care

• Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
  • Spreading infection or systemic symptoms (fever, chills) 4
  • Formation of an abscess 1
  • Failure to improve after 48 hours of appropriate treatment 4

Remember that cartilage piercings in the upper ear are more prone to serious infections than earlobe piercings, and improper management can lead to permanent deformity of the ear cartilage 1, 4.