Body Modification

Body modification aims to change a part of the body to create a more exciting or appealing look. Body modifications may be to increase social acceptance, support religious traditions or subvert the cultural norm.

Some of the methods used in body modification are; scarification, permanent piercing, and tattooing. All businesses that undertake body modification procedures have to follow guidelines and be registered with the local council. Look for a registered business if you’re getting modifications done. Because scars are the result of the body healing and recovering in some ways it is impossible to control fully. Therefore, the final look of the scar or scars may be different from the one you imagined.

Venues

To comply with health regulations:

  • The premises must be kept clean,
  • Any item used for penetrating the skin must be sterile at the time of use,
  • Any item that has penetrated the skin or has come into contact with blood or body fluids must be either disposed of immediately. However, some items may be cleaned and sterilised before being used on another person,
  • Any other used item must be cleaned before being used on another person.
  • Operators must keep themselves and their clothing clean, and have no exposed cuts, wounds or broken skin,
  • Importantly, operators must wear gloves,
  • Proprietors must provide written health information to explain to clients the potential health risks associated with skin penetration procedures.

Safety

The skin is the largest organ in the human body. Its function is to protect us from the environment by keeping out bugs and infections. If broken skin and non-sterile equipment or unsafe practices come in contact there is a high risk for transmission of blood borne viruses. HIV and Hepatitis B and C, for instance. The introduction of objects into a wound may increase the risk of infection. Any of the body mod procedure mentioned here need to be done by experienced professionals and will also require a degree of after care.

Performing genital or female nipple piercing, scarification and tattooing to people under 18 years of age are illegal in Victoria. It is legal to perform most other piercings (such as ears, nose or lips) to people 16 years or older.

In an Emergency

 WHAT IF SHIT GOES WRONG?

  • If you are concerned about wokr you’ve had done or an infection – head back to the place you got your work done for advice. Good services will provide plenty of aftercare advice.
  • If you seriously damage or aggravate any work caused by toys go directly to the emergency department of your nearest hospital without delay.
  • In an emergency dial 000 and remember paramedics and emergency workers have seen it all! No matter what you’ve done there’s no need to be embarrassed.
  • Not quite an emergency? Not sure if you need to go to the hospital? Give Nurse On Call 24 hours a day for advice on 1300 60 60 24

Not an emergency but got a question about body modification? Give us a holler and we’ll happily answer your questions about keeping your session safe and hot!

Questions about Body Modification

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