What is a Medusa piercing?
The Madonna or Medusa piercing is a piercing in the lip area. Unlike the labret piercing, this is not placed on the lower lip, but on the upper lip. Ring jewelry in this part of the face is a long tradition in Asia, Africa, and America. However, these usually have or have a different shape than the types commonly used today.
Similar rings to those used today were only worn by the Sudanese Nuba tribe and the Dogon in Mali. A so-called labret stud is regularly used to attach the jewelry in the Madonna piercing. This consists of a small plate and a pin attached to it, at the other end of which there is a thread onto which a small ball can be screwed. This ball can in turn be used as a holder for various types of jewelry.
Piercing a Medusa piercing
To do the piercing, the relevant area of the skin is first thoroughly disinfected. This is followed by marking the puncture site and securing it in place using pliers. The next step is to pierce the skin at the relevant site with a special needle. The jewelry is then attached to the upper lip through the puncture channel. It should be noted that changing from curved to straight jewelry later on can be painful because the puncture channel adapts to the shape of the first piece of jewelry during the healing process. After the piercing has been done, you should not smoke for several hours and you should not drink alcohol for 12 to 24 hours to ensure that the healing process is as smooth as possible. Many providers also recommend avoiding foods containing lactic and fruit acid for two weeks.
Risks of a Medusa Piercing
Piercing the lower lip is quite straightforward. However, this is only possible if the piercing is done by a specialist, as several important nerves converge at this point. Hygiene is also extremely important; if the work is not done properly, inflammation can develop and scars can remain. However, despite all the cleanliness, the lip can swell after the Ashley piercing. Cooling brings rapid relief in this case.
The Ashley piercing heals slowly. The healing time is between two and six months. It is important to follow certain rules of conduct, especially in the initial period. If Ashley has not yet healed, you should completely avoid alcohol, cigarettes, spicy and acidic foods, and drinks. This also applies to the use of lipstick and make-up in the piercing area. Anyone who has an Ashley piercing should also be particularly careful with their dental hygiene. Firstly, unkempt teeth and an Ashley piercing simply do not go together, and secondly, the risk of inflammation in this area is increased.
Which is the right jewelry?
Anyone who wants to get a Medusa piercing should pay particular attention to the material to avoid damage to the teeth. A labret bar made of Bioflex ( PTFE ) is recommended for this type of piercing, as it is very skin-friendly. There are several variations, so there is something for everyone. Either with a piercing ball made of metal or with a glittering gemstone.
It is possible to use horseshoes or segment clickers, but only for a few days to avoid damaging the teeth.
Estimated healing time for Medusa piercing
about 6 weeks
Medusa Piercing FAQ
How much does a Medusa piercing cost?
The cost of a Medusa piercing in a professional piercing studio is 40 to 60 EUR on average. Since there is only soft tissue and no cartilage at this point, the piercing can be done in the normal way. This leaves smaller holes than punching, which means that the area is not too noticeable even if the piercing is not worn.
Pain from a Medusa piercing?
The pain that occurs when getting a Medusa piercing is a little more painful than comparable piercings on the lips and face. This is due to the location of the piercing; since there are nerves in the septum at this point, the sensation of pain is more pronounced there than in areas with muscle tissue.
Medusa inflamed?
If a Medusa piercing has become infected, it is important not to let too much time pass before treating it. Firstly, there are facial nerves in this area and secondly, bacteria are always present in the mouth due to food intake. Therefore, to combat the infection, a thorough cleaning of the infected area is necessary, as is brushing your teeth several times a day.
