Conch Piercing FAQ
A conch piercing is a cartilage piercing located in the central part of the ear, within the concha, the large curved area near the ear canal.
The conch piercing is located in the inner or outer concha of the ear, depending on whether it's an inner or outer conch piercing.
Yes, conch piercings can be moderately painful due to the thickness of the cartilage, but pain varies by individual.
Most people describe the pain as a sharp pinch followed by a dull ache during healing.
Healing typically takes between 6-12 months, depending on aftercare and individual healing factors.
They require consistent aftercare, but they are not inherently harder to heal than other cartilage piercings.
The standard gauge is usually 16g or 14g, though some piercers may use 18g.
Initial jewelry is typically a labret stud, with bar lengths ranging from 6mm to 10mm depending on swelling. Hoops should only be worn after full healing.
Hoops are not recommended for initial healing due to movement and irritation; a stud is the preferred starter jewelry.
It is best to wait at least 6-12 months before switching to a hoop to avoid irritation.
Downsizing from the longer initial post to a shorter bar is typically recommended after 6-8 weeks to prevent irritation.
Use a sterile saline solution twice daily and avoid touching or twisting the jewelry.
Reduce swelling with saline soaks, avoid sleeping on the piercing, and ensure proper jewelry fit.
Only remove jewelry when fully healed; if difficult, seek professional assistance.
It is best to avoid sleeping on it during healing to prevent irritation.
Using earbuds during healing can cause irritation; over-ear headphones are recommended.
Prices vary but typically range from $40 to $100, excluding jewelry.
Implant-grade titanium or gold studs are recommended for initial healing.
A flat-back stud used as the initial jewelry for healing.
A hoop-style jewelry option for healed conch piercings.
A piercing placed on the outer edge of the concha, closer to the helix.
Two conch piercings placed in the same area, either inner or outer.
A conch piercing connected by a single hoop that passes through two holes.
The inner conch is pierced in the center of the concha, while the outer conch is closer to the ear’s edge.
Healing takes approximately 6-12 months.
Persistent redness, swelling, pain, and discharge may indicate infection and should be assessed by a professional.
No, hoops are best worn after full healing.
Common bumps can result from irritation; cleaning with saline and avoiding pressure can help reduce them.
Yes, conch piercings can be stretched once fully healed, typically using tapers or gradual jewelry changes.
Healing varies by individual, but both conch and rook piercings require careful aftercare and patience.
Standard sizes range from 10mm to 12mm, but proper fit depends on individual anatomy.
A professional piercer will use a sterile hollow needle to pierce the conch cartilage.
Pain is moderate due to cartilage thickness but varies by individual.
It is recommended to wait 6-12 months before changing jewelry.
Hold the front and twist off the back, or visit a piercer if difficult.
Wait until healed before using earbuds, and opt for over-ear headphones during healing.
