The Medusa piercing, also known as the philtrum piercing, is a popular and striking trend among teens and young adults. Positioned in the centre groove of the upper lip, just below the nose septum, this piercing highlights the shape of your lips and complements other facial piercings.
Does a Medusa Piercing Hurt?
Yes, the Medusa piercing does cause pain due to the high concentration of nerves in the upper lip area. The pain level varies from person to person; some experience significant discomfort, while others find it relatively mild. Despite the pain, it’s not considered the most painful facial piercing. If you want a Medusa piercing, the pain is manageable and temporary.
Swelling from Medusa Piercing
Swelling is a typical response to Medusa piercing, similar to other body piercings. The extent of swelling varies among individuals, but it typically subsides within 1-2 weeks. Initially, a longer stud accommodates the swelling, which can be replaced with a shorter one after six weeks to prevent damage to gums and teeth.
How to Reduce Swelling
- Apply ice cubes to the area for 15 minutes multiple times a day.
- Consume crushed ice or popsicles.
- Use sea salt soaks to alleviate swellTake anti-inflammatory medications.
- Chew food slowly and minimise talking.
- Protect the piercing area from trauma.
- Maintain cleanliness to prevent infection.
How to Hide a Medusa Piercing
Medusa piercings are challenging to conceal due to their central facial location. While hiding it completely is tough, you can use a band-aid during the healing phase or a flesh-coloured or clear plastic retainer once healed. Removing the jewellery for short periods is possible, but extended removal, especially before healing, can lead to piercing closing and increasing the risk of infection. If you anticipate needing to hide it often, reconsider getting the piercing.
Scarring from Medusa Piercing
Yes, Medusa piercings can leave scars, with the severity depending on:
- Gauge size used
- Your body’s healing ability
- Any infections during the healing
- Early jewellery removal
- Duration the piercing was worn
Scarring varies widely; it can be minor or more pronounced, potentially forming keloids or hypertrophic scars that are harder to conceal.
How to Hide a Medusa Piercing Scar
To hide a scar, use skin-tone matching liquid makeup or powder foundation for small scars. For larger scars, makeup might not be effective. Massaging the scar with bio-oil, vitamin C oil, or tea tree oil can help fade it over time. Scar revision procedures are another option.
Can Medusa Piercing Get Infected?
Yes, like any piercing, Medusa piercings can become infected if not properly cared for. Regular cleaning with sea salt soaks, warm water, and antibacterial soap is essential. Symptoms of infection include:
- Persistent swelling and redness
- Fever and nausea
- Itching and burning sensations
- Prolonged throbbing pain
- Discharge of foul-smelling pus
- Difficulty eating and swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes
If these symptoms occur, seek medical advice immediately. Mild infections can be treated at home, but severe cases require professional intervention.
Medusa Piercing Healing Time
On average, Medusa piercings take 6-8 weeks to heal, though complete healing can take up to 6 months. During this period, the area may remain tender and sore, especially when changing jewellery.
Aftercare for Medusa Piercing
- Clean the piercing with warm water twice daily.
- Avoid touching the piercing with unwashed hands.
- Rinse your mouth with non-alcoholic mouthwash after eating.
- Use mild soap to clean the area while bathing.
- Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.
- Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild toothpaste.
- Avoid antiseptic mouthwash.
- Refrain from eating hot, spicy, or sticky foods initially.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol as they delay healing.
- Eat ice cream or suck on popsicles to reduce swelling.
- Do not apply antibacterial creams or lotions.
- Avoid Neosporin and similar ointments.
- Refrain from kissing and oral sex during initial healing.
- Keep the area away from sprays and perfumes.
- Avoid peroxide or betadine for cleaning.
- Eat slowly and carefully.
- Stay out of public pools and baths.
- Prevent any trauma to the piercing.
Don’t play with the jewellery, as it can damage oral structures even after healing.
Following these aftercare steps will help ensure a smooth healing process and minimise the risk of complications.
Risks of Medusa Piercing
Medusa piercings come with potential risks, including:
- Infection
- Severe swelling
- Bleeding
- Teeth erosion
- Scarring
- Gum recession
- Changes in oral structures
- Incompatible jewellery placement
- Pus discharge
- Redness and severe pain
Be informed and prepared for these risks before getting a Medusa piercing. Proper care and hygiene are crucial for a successful piercing experience.