Lathe Metalworking

OK, a year ago I got my nose pierced. I love it!!! Did not have one problem, and never had to have it adjusted. A week ago I went in and the put a new stud in for the first time (I'm not much of a changer!). I had to have it adjusted a few days later and decided while I was there to get a nose ring put in rather than my stud. It hurt worse than the original piercing. OK, stupid me didn't think about it being a slightly larger gage! That was Saturday and it is still very tender. How long does it take to stop hurting? Also, I am now worried that when I take it out that the studs won't fit any more. This is the smallest possible ring you can get from a piercer. Is this a possibility? I don't want to gage my hole up, I just like the look of a ring. If it could pose an issue, is it OK to get a small earing hoop to use...I know not to use anything but gold or surgical steel. Thanks in advance everyone!!!!