Vertical Labret Piercing FAQ

A Vertical Labret piercing is a variation of the labret piercing where the jewelry is inserted in a vertical orientation along the lip, rather than the traditional horizontal placement.

For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

Pain levels are similar to a standard Labret piercing—a quick, sharp sensation during insertion followed by moderate discomfort during initial healing. Some people report slightly increased sensitivity due to the orientation.

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The initial healing time is generally 6 to 8 weeks, with complete healing taking 3 to 6 months, similar to a standard Labret piercing.

For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

It’s possible, but consult both your piercer and your cosmetic specialist. Lip fillers can alter lip anatomy, which might affect placement and healing.

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Yes, as with any piercing, rejection is possible if the body pushes the jewelry out. Good placement and proper aftercare help minimize this risk.

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Both types generally follow similar healing timelines. However, the vertical orientation may be subject to different stresses from lip movement, potentially influencing healing in individual cases.

For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

If healed properly, scarring is minimal. However, if the piercing is removed prematurely or complications occur, a scar might form.

For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

  • Avoid any touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
  • Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution/wound wash spray as needed.
  • Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

    • For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    Low-profile, flat-backed studs or specially designed vertical labret rings are recommended. The jewelry should be made of high-quality, implant-grade materials.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    Hoops are less common in vertical labret piercings due to the orientation and limited space; most individuals opt for studs or other low-profile jewelry.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    When properly fitted and low-profile, it should not damage your teeth. If the jewelry is too long or misaligned, it could make contact with your teeth and potentially cause wear over time.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    The pain is generally comparable to a standard labret—a brief, sharp pinch during insertion followed by moderate soreness during healing. Some may find the vertical placement slightly more sensitive.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    Swelling is typically most noticeable during the first few days to a week after piercing. It should gradually subside as the initial healing phase passes.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    An “Ashley piercing” is a term sometimes used to refer to a specific style of vertical labret piercing with unique placement or design elements. If you encounter this term, ask your piercer for clarification on how it differs in technique and aesthetics.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    The cost of a “Vertical Labret” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    This is a less common variation where the jewelry is inserted in a reverse orientation compared to a typical vertical labret. It is performed for aesthetic variation and may require specialized technique.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    Cleaning is done in the same manner as other lip piercings: gently cleanse the area with a sterile saline solution 1–2 times daily using a clean swab or your fingertips with clean hands.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    Wait until the piercing is fully healed—typically 6 to 8 weeks for initial healing, though many piercers recommend waiting 3 months or longer before changing jewelry.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    If you wish to conceal your vertical labret piercing, consider using discreet jewelry (such as a clear retainer) or choosing a design that blends with your natural lip tone. Makeup can also help camouflage the piercing if necessary.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    Yes, once it has healed sufficiently. During the healing phase, be gentle to avoid irritation or dislodging the jewelry.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    It is best to avoid smoking during the initial healing period because smoking can hinder circulation and delay healing. Once healed, some continue to smoke, but reducing or quitting is recommended for overall health.

    For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare

    Clementine Piercing offers “Vertical Labret” Piercings in NYC. Johnny Pearce, one of the worlds top rated and most trusted piercing professionals, holds tenure at Clementine Piercing in NYC—making it an excellent option for trusted piercing services.

  • Look for professional, APP-certified piercing studios with:
    • Experienced piercers familiar with genital piercings
    • Strict hygiene and sterilization protocols
    • Positive client reviews and portfolio examples
  • Please feel free to use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.

    • For more information on oral piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/oral-piercing-aftercare