Medusa Piercing FAQ

A Medusa piercing is a type of upper lip piercing placed directly in the philtrum—the vertical groove between your nose and the upper lip. Typically, it is done using a flat-back labret stud that sits comfortably inside your mouth while the decorative end is visible above the lip.

The term “Medusa piercing” is a stylistic name coined within the piercing community. Although it shares its name with the mythological figure Medusa from Greek mythology, there is no direct connection; the name was chosen for its edgy, memorable quality.

Healing time for a Medusa piercing is generally between 3 to 6 months. Factors influencing this include:

• Aftercare practices: Consistent use of sterile saline and avoiding irritants.
• Individual healing factors: Such as overall health, diet, hydration, and immune response.
• Jewelry quality and fit: Using implant-grade materials (titanium, niobium, or high-quality gold) can reduce irritation and promote proper healing.

Note: Even if the piercing appears healed on the surface, internal healing may still be completing, so patience is essential.

The cost typically ranges from $40 to $80. Prices may be higher for:

• Premium, custom, or gem-accented jewelry
• Services by experienced piercers in high-end studios

Always prioritize reputable studios for safety and precision.

A Medusa piercing is typically done at 16 gauge (1.2mm), though some piercers might opt for a 14-gauge (1.6mm) based on your anatomy or if you plan to stretch the piercing later.

• 16g is standard for most lip piercings.
• 14g may be preferred for durability or if planning to stretch.

A Medusa piercing can cause dental issues if improperly placed or if the wrong jewelry is used.

• Flat-backed labret studs help minimize contact with teeth and gums.
• Incorrectly sized jewelry can lead to gum recession or enamel wear over time.
• If irritation occurs, consult your piercer about downsizing your jewelry.

• External Cleaning: Gently cleanse the outside of the piercing twice daily with a sterile saline solution.
• Oral Care: Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free saline rinse or gentle mouthwash after meals to clear food particles and reduce bacteria.
• General Tips: Avoid touching or rotating the jewelry, and steer clear of harsh products that could irritate the piercing.

• Apply a cold compress externally during the first few days.
• Reduce talking or excessive lip movement initially.
• Avoid spicy, acidic, or hot foods that might irritate the piercing.

Swelling is common in the first 3–7 days, but persistent swelling should be evaluated by a piercer.

• Accidental trauma: Biting or bumping the area.
• Irritation: From certain foods, smoking, or alcohol.
• Allergic reactions: To low-quality or incompatible jewelry materials.

If swelling persists beyond the early healing phase, consult a professional piercer.

Most people rate the pain of a Medusa piercing as moderate. The initial procedure feels like a quick, sharp pinch, and while some soreness and tenderness may persist during healing, the pain is generally manageable (often described as a 3–5 out of 10).

• Before handling: Wash your hands thoroughly.
• Removal: Gently hold the flat back disc inside your mouth while unscrewing the decorative top.
• If Stuck: If the jewelry does not come out easily, do not force it—visit your piercer for safe removal.

It’s best to wait until the piercing is fully healed—typically between 3 to 6 months—before changing jewelry. Changing too early can cause irritation or disrupt the healing process. If you encounter difficulty removing the jewelry, consult your piercer.

• Initial Jewelry Size: Typically, an 8mm to 10mm post length is used to accommodate initial swelling.
• After Healing: Many opt to downsize to 6mm to 8mm to reduce irritation and improve comfort.
• Gauge: Standard is usually 16g (1.2mm), but some people prefer 14g (1.6mm) depending on individual preference.

• Professional Studios: Many reputable piercing studios sell high-quality, implant-grade jewelry on-site.
• Online Retailers: Look for specialized online stores that offer titanium, niobium, or solid gold jewelry.
• Tip: Avoid cheap, plated metals like silver, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions.

• Clear Retainers: Use clear or skin-toned retainers that blend with your natural skin tone.
• Low-Profile Jewelry: Choose small, flat-backed pieces that do not protrude significantly.
• Makeup: You can use makeup to camouflage the piercing area, but avoid applying products directly to the healing tissue.

Any piercing has the potential to leave a scar, though with proper aftercare, scarring is usually minimal. Factors that increase scarring include:

• Premature removal of jewelry
• Poor aftercare or infection during healing
• Individual skin type (keloid-prone skin may scar more)

Stretching should only be done gradually and under professional guidance. Use implant-grade jewelry and increase sizes in small increments (e.g., moving from 16g to 14g, then 12g) to avoid tissue damage.

If the jewelry is improperly fitted or too long, it may contact your teeth and lead to enamel wear or gum recession. Selecting a flat-backed labret and ensuring proper fit is crucial for minimizing dental risks.

The Medusa piercing is primarily aesthetic, designed to enhance the natural contours of the upper lip and create a bold, distinctive look. It can be a statement piercing or part of a broader lip piercing set.

Despite its evocative name, the term "Medusa piercing" is simply a popular label within the body modification community. It does not have a direct mythological connection to the Greek figure Medusa; instead, it has become a recognized term for a central philtrum piercing.