My friend would like to get her daughters' ears pierced and I'm not sure where to tell her to go since I have a little boy. They are from Africa and it is very important to her to have this done as soon as possible. The babies are 3 months old. The pediatrician said she will do it in her office at 6 months but the mom would like it done before then.
What age is appropriate to have this done in the US? Is there a safe, kid-friendly place you'd recommend? We're coming from Laurel.
Hi E., To answer your question about the appropriate age, I do believe the going advice is at the 6 month mark. This is due to the immunization schedule. I can't remember the exact 6 month shots, but it may be the final Hepititus shot.
I would say the if the pediattrician offered to do it at 6 months,..let them do it. You could sure be as guaranteed as ever to not have the little ears get infected. :)
I had my daughter's done at 3 months old ... at Piercing Pagoda in Columbia Mall (uppler level, center kiosk) ... and they did a great job. My 2 sisters also pierced their daughters' ears at 3-4 months also ... it's common practice in my culture. They're in VaBeach, and they took their daughters to a similar place (even Claire's Accessories store does it well). My pediatrician recommended to at least wait til after their 2-month old shots, but before they can start grabbing at the ears (like 4-5 months old), because it's easier to care for it when the baby can't reach it. I would say the hardest part is keeping it clean and cared for during the first few months, but other than that, the piercing itself was pretty quick and easy. If she waits to do it when her daughter is older, I'd recommend maybe having 2 ladies pierce at the same time... when the kids are old enough, they often figure out (after feeling the first piercing) that they cringe/fear the second one. So, I know some Moms that had 2 different ladies do it at the same time. But I tell ya, keeping it clean (during those first few weeks/months) is more challenging when it's done at an older age (when they're old enough to pick at it)... so I'm glad we did it when she was 3 months old. Now, she's 8 yrs old and LOVES her earrings. Never been a problem. Barely any maintenance, only fun in picking out new earrings. Hope this helps.
I just got my daughter's ear's pierced at 3 months old at Providence Hospital in Northeast Washington DC. I think the doctor's name is Dr. Kaftarian but if you call the hospital information line, they will know who you are talking about. He does walk-ins on Mon through Wed mornings. He was nice and has been doing it for a while. Good Luck!
At the Mall in Columbia, you can go to Claire's or Piercing Pagoda. Both are great and on weekends I think both have enough people, that you can get both ears pierced at the same time.
Good luck!
K.
