A Medusa piercing, or “Philtrum”, has become one of the most requested piercings in our studio in the last few years.  This piercing placed right above your upper lip, in what is sometimes called “a widow’s peak”, can add a lot to your style with the right piece of jewelry.

Anatomy can play a factor as to whether or not this is a viable piercing for someone; having too large of a frenulum will prevent this piercing from being placed properly.  The first thing your piercer will do when you sit down for your appointment will be to take a look and assure that your frenulum will not interfere with the piercing.

The jewelry worn in this piercing is either a threaded or threadless labret, typically in a 16g or 14g.  The length of the jewelry can vary depending on anatomy or history of excessive swelling with oral piercings.  The upper lip is also typically thicker than the bottom lip and tends to swell more and for a longer period. How much differs for everyone, but this can easily be controlled by keeping the area iced and free from excessive irritation. Downsizing this piercing is extremely important as wearing the longer labret jewelry can cause irreparable gum damage, often requiring that a client returns to have the jewelry downsized twice. For complete aftercare instructions, please visit our Aftercare page.

Making sure you eat before any piercing is important but, particularly with oral piercings as it will be difficult for you to eat afterward. Also being prepared by buying a non-alcoholic mouthwash prior to your trip to the studio will save you a stop afterward.

This piercing is performed like most other oral piercings. The area is cleaned, marked, clamped and pierced. The clamp can be uncomfortable but the procedure is fairly quick and always worth it!