What are the risks associated with stretching my ears?
Once one stretches past a certain point (typically around 0 gauge), tissue is permanently and radically different from its original form. If the skin around the piercing gets very thin, whatever you do, stop stretching. The easiest way to thicken the tissue is to downsize a few sizes, wait a couple of weeks, and then re-stretch. By repeating this process, you can usually drastically increase the thickness of the tissue. In addition, choice of jewelry material can have an effect on the tissue’s thickness (and general health). Many people find the high quality wooden jewelry both thickens the tissue and keeps it healthy (and stink-free). Most people can stretch about one inch per year. Over-stretching can result in tearing or migration, which will usually lead to scar tissue. The biggest problem with this is that it makes further stretching more difficult. Over-stretching can also result in damage to nerves, leading to a loss of feeling in the tissue. However, feeling typically returns i
