What is a medusa piercing?
Medusa piercing also known as cupid’s bow piercing is the perforation of the philtrum. The piercing is made on the dip above the upper lip. The location is directly below the septum of the nose. The piercing is also known as the philtrum piercing.
Method
- First the philtrum, i.e; is cleaned to remove bacteria that may be present.
- Then the person must clean the inside of his/her mouth by using an antibacterial solution.
- A surgical pen is used to mark the exact location for the piercing.
- Then the piercer may use a clam to stretch the upper lip.
- After that a hollow, light needle is used to make a perforation on the marked spot and the jewelry chosen by the person is inserted into the piercing immediately.
Pain in Philtrum piercing
The experience of pain is relative for different people. This difference in experience is due to the fact that different people have different thresholds of pain. However, the medusa piercing pain is quite high because the piercing is made at a place that is tender and has a lot of nerve endings located, which make it very sensitive. However, if the piercing is done by an expert who uses the correct technique, then it may be possible to reduce the pain to an extent that is bearable.
Risks
The person intending to get a medusa piercing must be aware of the fact that this sort of piercing is not safe from the infections that are followed by any other kind of piercings. It may cause severe infections or any other kind of complication. The infections may cause swelling, redness, pain, and discharge of fluids such as pus. In case such a condition occurs it is advisable to take the opinion of a doctor rather than self medicating. Due to its location, the gums and teeth are at high risk of damage due to contact with the metal back of the jewelry. Another risk involved in case of a philtrum piercing is that of scarring. Although, there may be options for medusa piercing scar removal later, but it is better to be informed about such possibilities.
Related: Bottom Lip Piercing
Precautions
- Choose an experienced piercing artist to make the piercing. Use of the wrong technique to make the piercing increases chances of infections and complications.
- Choose a salon that is clean and hygienic so that chances of an infection are very less.
- Discuss the procedure with the piercing artist thoroughly to avoid any confusion and complication.
- Choose the jewelry carefully to ensure quick healing and avoid any complication.
- It is advisable for the person to consult a doctor before undergoing the procedure for piercing. It makes the person aware about the possible dangers and any possible allergies that the person may be subject to.
Aftercare
Healing time
There are a number of factors that affect the healing process. While regular cleaning and proper care can hasten the healing process, poor choice of jewelry and touching the wound with dirty hands might further complicate the process. The medusa piercing takes about 6- 12 weeks to heal.
How to avoid infections?
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Jewellery for Philtrum piercing
The best possible jewelry option in case of a medusa piercing is a labret stud. People can experiment with the jewelry once the jewelry has healed. People who want to hide a medusa piercing may wear acrylic retainers.
Cost
Cost incurred in case of a medusa piercing may change depending on the jewelry that the person chooses or the salon and piercing expert hired for the job. Usually, the cost incurred for a medusa piercing rages between $20-$30.
