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When piercings passing through [[cartilage]] become infected, it is possible for an [[infection]] to become trapped between layers of cartilage. When this happens, infection can spread very rapidly and literally destroy an ear within a period of a day or two creating '''ear collapse.'''  Since the cartilage is the structural element of the ear, even after you've cleared the infection, permanent damage can easily be done.

A serious infection of this type should be immediately treated by a doctor. Again, this type of infection can spread and grow very quickly, so if this happens to you do not hesitate to visit an emergency room! See [[Cartilage Swelling|Cartilage Swelling]] for more information.

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[[Image:Ear_Collapse-1.jpg]]

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==See Also==
* [[Cartilage Swelling]]


==Entries related to this risk==
* [[Cartilage Piercing]]
* [[Ear Shaping]]
* [[Ear Pointing]]
* [[Helix Shaping]]
* [[Ear Cropping]]
* [[Industrial Piercing]]

[[Category: Risks]]