If you’re someone with body piercings and you’ve ever needed an MRI, CT scan, or surgery, you might already be familiar with the concept of retaining jewelry. Retainers are an essential tool in making sure your piercing doesn’t close during medical procedures where metal jewelry isn’t permitted.
What Are Retainers?
Retaining jewelry, often referred to simply as retainers, are typically made from non-metallic, biocompatible materials like glass, PTFE, or medical-grade silicone. They’re designed to hold the piercing open temporarily without interfering with medical equipment or imaging results.
I peresonally stock high-quality glass retainers from Gorilla Glass, a respected and innovative company in the body jewelry industry. Gorilla Glass handcrafts their retainers from borosilicate glass—known for its durability, safety, and hypoallergenic properties.
Why Use Retainers?
Here are a few reasons you might need a retainer:
- MRIs and CT Scans: Metal jewelry can cause artifacts or distortions in MRI or CT images. In some cases, it may even pose a burn risk due to interaction with strong magnetic fields. Glass retainers eliminate this issue.
- Surgeries: Medical staff may ask you to remove all metal jewelry before surgical procedures to reduce infection risks or prevent complications with surgical instruments.
- X-rays: Although some X-rays might tolerate metal, it’s best practice to swap to a non-metallic retainer when possible.
What to Expect from Gorilla Glass Retainers
The Gorilla Glass retainers we carry are:
- Biocompatible
- Easy to sterilize
- Handmade with precision and care
- Available in a range of sizes for different piercings
Important Note: Retainers Are Not for Long-Term Wear
Retainers serve a temporary purpose. They are not meant to be worn long-term—especially in fresh or healing piercings. Wearing a retainer in place of proper jewelry for an extended period can irritate the piercing channel, encourage migration or shrinkage, and compromise overall healing.
If you’re not sure when it’s appropriate to use a retainer or need help switching out your jewelry before a procedure, we always recommend reaching out. We’re happy to help guide you or assist with the swap to ensure it’s done safely.
Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming scan or you just want to keep your piercing secure during a medical appointment, we’re here to help you make that transition safely and comfortably.
📟 Text me at 347-770-7653 or 🗓️ schedule your appointment online anytime at book.ipricku.com.