Are you contemplating getting a flat piercing? Before taking the plunge, it's essential to educate yourself about the pain, cost, and healing process associated with this type of ear piercing.
At Luna, we specialize in ear piercings and possess the know-how to guide you on this exciting journey. A flat piercing is located on the top of the ear, on the flat part of the cartilage. It is quite rare and usually adorned with a small stud in the shape of a moon, star, or ball. The flat piercing is not very painful, given the thinness of the cartilage in this area. The cost is approximately 40 euros.
In this article, you will discover everything you need to know about flat piercing, tips for taking care of your cartilage, and healing quickly, as well as different types of jewelry suitable for this piercing. The flat piercing will hold no secrets from you. So, let's get started!
What is a Flat Piercing?
The term 'flat piercing' comes from the English word "flat," referring to the shape of the cartilage at this particular location. The flat part of the cartilage is indeed located on the top of the ear. This spacious area lies underneath the helix and above the rook. Little known, the flat piercing is discrete and brings a touch of originality to your ear.
Given that the flat area is quite large, you can have several piercings in it and accumulate small pieces of jewelry for a fashionable effect.
Flat Piercing Price and Rates
When you get your ears pierced, you usually pay a one-time fee for the act of piercing, the jewelry, and the advice from the piercer. The average price for a flat piercing varies between $30 and $60, like most cartilage piercings. Indeed, the flat area is easy to access, not too thick, and does not require a specific needle.
The cost of an ear piercing depends on the location, experience, and popularity of the piercer, as well as the materials they use. Avoid jewelry stores despite their appealing prices: it's merely a marketing technique to win your loyalty!
Pain of the Flat Piercing
The pain felt during the cartilage piercing may come as a surprise and sting, but it quickly fades. This sharp pain is followed by a dull ache for a few hours and then a general ear sensitivity for about 2 weeks. The perception of pain varies depending on your pain tolerance and mood. The pain of a flat piercing can vary according to the thickness of the cartilage, your morphology, and your stress level. That's why some areas of the ear are more painful than others: the rook is more unpleasant while the lobe is almost painless. Contrary to what one might think, a flat piercing is not very painful since the cartilage at this location is quite thin. Moreover, most piercers use hollow, sharp needles to minimize the pain.
The Piercing Session: What to Expect?
-
Choosing the Right Piercer: Before deciding on a flat piercing, it's crucial to select a professional and experienced piercer. Make sure to choose a clean, hygienic salon. Don't hesitate to ask your friends for recommendations, read online reviews, or visit the place to talk to the piercer directly.
-
Preparation of Materials and Piercing Area: On the day of the piercing, the piercer will carefully prepare the necessary material: sterile gloves, a hollow needle, forceps, alcohol, and gauze. They will then disinfect the ear area to be pierced with an antiseptic solution to prevent infections.
-
Marking and Validating the Position: Before proceeding with the piercing, the piercer will mark the exact location of the flat piercing with a special marker. You will be able to validate the position and request adjustments if necessary.
-
Cartilage Piercing: Once you are satisfied with the location, the piercer will insert the hollow needle into your ear cartilage. They will then pass the jewelry through the needle to place it in the hole.
-
Cleaning and Aftercare Tips: Finally, the piercer will clean the area again and provide you with tips on how to care for your flat piercing during the healing phase.
Healing Time and Aftercare
Healing Time: The healing duration of a flat piercing varies between individuals but is generally estimated between 6 and 12 months.
During this period, it's crucial to follow your piercer's advice to avoid infections and complications.
Aftercare: Here are some tips on how to care for your flat piercing during the healing phase:
- Clean the area twice a day with a saline solution;
- Avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands;
- Do not rotate the jewelry in the hole, as this can delay healing;
- Avoid swimming pools, saunas, and hot baths for the first few weeks;
- Regularly change your pillowcase to avoid bacteria.
What Kind of Jewelry to Choose for a Flat Piercing?
The flat piercing offers a lot of possibilities in terms of jewelry. Here are some popular options:
-
Studs: Studs are the most commonly used jewelry for flat piercings. They consist of a small bar with a ball, a star, a moon, or another discreet design. Studs are comfortable and easy to wear daily.
-
Chains: Chains are also suitable for flat piercings. Chains add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your ear.
-
Custom Piercings: Some piercers offer custom jewelry for your flat piercing. You can choose a unique design or opt for letter-shaped jewelry to represent your initials, for example.
Tips for Changing Jewelry
Once your flat piercing is completely healed, you can start changing the jewelry. Here are some tips for safely changing your jewelry:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before touching your piercing.
- Clean the new jewelry with a saline solution or a specific piercing jewelry cleaner.
- Gently remove the previous jewelry by unscrewing or sliding it out of the hole.
- Quickly insert the new jewelry to prevent the hole from closing.
- Firmly tighten the closures or ends to secure the jewelry in place.
- Clean the piercing area with a saline solution after changing the jewelry.
Risks and Complications of Flat Piercing
Like any type of piercing, the flat piercing carries certain potential risks and complications. These are the most common:
-
Infection: Infections are the most common complications for piercings. To minimize this risk, follow post-piercing care advice and avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands.
-
Keloids: Keloids are thick, raised scars that can form around the piercing. They're more common in people with a family history of keloids. If you're prone to keloids, talk to your piercer before getting a piercing.
-
Rejection: Rejection is a body reaction that consists of pushing the jewelry out of the skin. It's less common with flat piercings but can occur if the jewelry is too heavy or if the bar is too short. To minimize this risk, choose suitable, good-quality jewelry.
-
Slow Healing: The healing of a flat piercing may take longer in some people. Follow your piercer's advice and be patient.
In conclusion, the flat piercing is a discreet and modern cartilage piercing that offers many possibilities in terms of jewelry. Before you start, consult a professional and experienced piercer for personalized advice. Follow the recommended post-piercing care to ensure quick healing and prevent complications.
If you're looking for an original piercing and you like the idea of a discreet but elegant piece of jewelry, the flat piercing could be the perfect choice for you. It's relatively painless and offers a lot of freedom in terms of jewelry, allowing you to customize your look according to your desires.
Don't hesitate to check out other articles on piercings and jewelry for inspiration and to broaden your knowledge on the topic. You'll be better prepared to fully enjoy this experience and create your own unique style. Now that you have all the necessary information about the flat piercing, all that's left is to take the step and embark on this exciting adventure. Don't wait any longer, and visit your piercer to beautify your ear with this discreet and original piercing!