the plethora of alternatives available, orbital piercings stand out for their distinctive positioning and aesthetic appeal. Piercings have long been a method of self-expression. For individuals wishing to add a unique element to their collection of body art, orbital piercings are an alluring option. It’s important to comprehend the subtleties of orbital piercings, from the surgery to the aftercare, whether you’re new to piercings or an experienced enthusiast. This thorough guide will cover all the information you require about orbital piercings, including types, healing procedures, and jewelry options.
What is Orbital piercing?
One kind of ear piercing called an orbital piercing consists of two holes joined by a single piece of jewelry, usually a captive bead ring or a hoop. The name of this piercing comes from the way the jewelry “orbits” through two different ear locations, giving the piece a distinctive and eye-catching appearance. The lobe, helix, and cartilage are just a few of the ear regions where orbital piercings can be inserted, and each offers a unique appearance and sensation.
Types of Orbital Piercing
Because of its versatility, orbital piercings can be tailored to each person’s tastes. These are the most typical kinds:
Cartilage Orbital Piercing
The most common variation of this method is cartilage orbital piercing. It involves using a single piece of jewelry to join two cartilage incisions in the ear. Depending on the person’s ear structure, this piercing can be done in a variety of positions and is usually placed in the top section of the ear. The jewelry on cartilage orbital piercings makes a powerful statement by fitting tightly against the outer rim of the ear, giving them a unique appearance.
Helix Orbital Piercing
A particular kind of cartilage orbital piercing called a “helix orbital piercing” is inserted into the helix, the curled outer edge of the ear. This piercing typically entails two piercings joined by a ring or hoops higher up on the ear. Helix orbital piercings are a favorite among people who like mild yet distinctive body modifications because of their attractive and delicate appearance.
Orbital Lobe Piercing
Another form is the orbital lobe piercing, which entails piercing the earlobe twice and joining them with a single piece of jewelry. This orbital piercing is situated in the soft tissue of the earlobe, which makes it less painful and heals more quickly than other orbital piercings that require cartilage. When opposed to cartilage and helix alternatives, orbital lobe piercings have a more subtle appearance, which makes them an adaptable option for people who want something different but not too garish.
Double Orbital Piercing
An enhanced kind of orbital piercing, known as a double orbital piercing, consists of two sets of piercings joined by two different pieces of jewelry. This piercing can be done in the lobe and helix, among other locations on the ear, giving the appearance of layers and complicated design. Double orbital piercings offer a complicated and striking appearance, making them perfect for people looking to make a statement with their body art.
The Process of Orbital Piercing
The procedure for getting an orbital piercing is simple, but it’s crucial to pick a qualified piercer with knowledge of this particular kind of piercing. What to anticipate throughout the procedure is as follows:
Consultation
To choose the ideal spot for the piercing, the piercer will talk with you about your intended placement and evaluate the structure of your ears. They will also go over the process, recovery period, and post-operative care.
Marking the Placement
The piercer will mark the entry and exit places for the jewelry on your ear once the placement has been determined. This stage guarantees that the piercing will be precisely aligned and symmetrical.
Sterilization
In order to stop infection, the region will be cleaned and sterilized. Additionally, the piercer will get ready the jewelry and sterilized needles for the process.
Piercing
The piercer will make the first hole and the second hole at the designated areas using a hollow needle. The jewelry is then put to join the two perforations; this is usually a hoop or captive bead ring.
Orbital Piercing Healing time
Depending on the location and the individual’s healing capacity, the orbital piercing recovery time may differ. Though some cartilage piercings may take longer, orbital piercings often heal completely in 3 to 6 months.
Orbital Piercing Pain Level
Since pain is a subjective feeling, how uncomfortable you are during and after an orbital piercing will depend on both the site of the piercing and your pain threshold. Because the lobe has softer tissue than the other, piercings via cartilage such as helix or cartilage orbital piercings generally cause more pain.
You should anticipate a dull aching after the treatment, followed by a stinging pinch as the needle penetrates the skin. Over-the-counter painkillers and appropriate treatment can help handle any discomfort, although the pain is typically only temporary.
Possible Issues
Orbital piercings have possible hazards and problems, just like any other body modification. Before opting to get the piercing, it’s crucial to be informed of these:
Infection: If the piercing is not cleansed well or if bacteria are introduced to the area, an infection may develop. Redness, swelling, warmth, and discharge are some of the symptoms.
Scarring: Damage or inadequate healing from the piercing may leave scars or increase regions of scar tissue called keloids.
Jewelry Rejection: The jewelry may occasionally be rejected by the body and forced out of the piercing. This is more likely to happen if the jewelry is overly tight or made of particular materials.
Migration: The jewelry could shift from where it was originally placed, making the piercing uneven or crooked. This may occur if the jewelry is too heavy or if the piercing is not properly placed.
Allergy Reactions: Certain metals can cause allergic reactions in some people, which can cause swelling, redness, and itching.
Orbital Piercing Aftercare Guide
- To avoid infection and encourage healing, clean the piercing twice a day using a saline solution or piercing aftercare spray.
- Try not to touch or rotate the jewelry too much as this might irritate the piercing and introduce bacteria.
- Reduce pressure and irritation, try not to sleep on the side of the newly placed piercing.
- During the healing phase, stay clear of pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water as these may contain bacteria.
- Look out for symptoms like redness, swelling, or discharge that could indicate an infection. Make quick contact with your piercer or a medical expert if you have any of these symptoms.
Products for Aftercare
Using the appropriate aftercare items is essential to ensuring the correct healing of your orbital piercing. Here are a few suggested choices:
- The best method for cleaning your piercing is to use a basic saline solution. To make your own, combine 8 ounces of warm distilled water with 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt.
- A variety of ready-made aftercare sprays with piercing-specific formulations are available. These mists are practical and simple to operate.
- To clean the area around the piercing, some piercers advise using a moderate, fragrance-free antibacterial soap.
- Applying compresses made of chamomile tea will help relieve sore piercings and minimise swelling. Just brew a tea bag filled with chamomile in boiling water, allow it to cool a little, and then place it over the piercing.
- Emu oil has anti-inflammatory qualities and can aid in healing and scar reduction. Ensure that the emu oil you use is pure and additive-free.
Selecting the Ideal Jewelry
It’s important to choose the appropriate jewelry for your orbital piercing for healing and comfort in addition to cosmetic purposes. Hoops and captive bead rings are the most popular jewelry designs used for orbital piercings, although material and size are other crucial factors.
Materials for Jewelry
- Surgical steel: Because of its strength and hypoallergenic qualities, this is one of the most widely used materials for piercing jewelry. It’s a great option for people with delicate skin.
- Titanium: Another hypoallergenic choice that is corrosion-resistant and lightweight is titanium. For people who are prone to allergic reactions, it may be worth the slightly higher cost compared to surgical steel.
- Gold: Although gold is a timeless material for jewelry, it’s crucial to select high-quality gold (14k or above) to prevent any negative responses. For newly placed piercings, gold-plated jewelry should be avoided.
- Niobium: This lesser-known substance is biocompatible and perfect for those who are allergic to metals. Comparable to titanium, but a tad heavier.
- Bioplast: This flexible, hypoallergenic material is safe for piercings and is a good choice for people who prefer non-metal choices. It’s frequently applied while the body heals.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Orbital piercings are surrounded by a number of myths and misconceptions, just like any other type of body modification. We’ll dispel a few of the most widespread ones here:
Orbital piercings are extremely painful.
Most people feel that orbital piercings are no more painful than other cartilage piercings, though pain tolerance varies from person to person. The pain is usually transient, and any soreness can be minimized with the right management.
Orbital piercings are prone to infections.
Compared to other piercing kinds, orbital piercings do not naturally have a higher risk of infection. The risk of infection is low if you maintain the piercing clean and adhere to the advised aftercare regimen.
Orbital piercings take years to heal.
Most orbital piercings heal in 3 to 6 months, although cartilage piercings typically take longer to cure than lobe piercings. Depending on the person and the location of the piercing, healing times can differ.
Orbital piercings are only for young people.
Getting an orbital piercing has no age restrictions. As long as they maintain good health and take good care of their piercing, people of all ages can appreciate its visual appeal.
You can’t have an MRI with an orbital piercing.
Even though metal jewelry should be taken off before having an MRI, having an orbital piercing does not exclude getting one. Just take off the jewelry before and put it back on afterwards.
How Much Does an Orbital Piercing Cost?
The cost of an orbital piercing can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location of the piercing studio, the experience of the piercer, and the type of jewelry you choose. On average, you can expect to pay between $20 and $110 for an orbital piercing.
How to Determine to Get an Orbital Piercing?
A number of considerations need to be made while deciding whether to undergo an orbital piercing, such as your lifestyle, personal style, and pain threshold. Before making the move, consider asking yourself the following questions:
- What is your level of pain tolerance? Although they don’t hurt too much, orbital piercings include cartilage, which might be more sensitive than other parts of the body.
- Are you ready to dedicate a few months to the aftercare procedure? For the healing process to be successful, proper care is essential.
- Can you maintain a piercing with your current way of living? Think about your hobbies, place of employment, and any sports or other activities that may interfere with your ability to take care of the piercing.
- Is an orbital piercing in line with your general look? Consider how the piercing will go with your everyday outfit and other jewelry.
- Do you feel well? Before obtaining their piercing, people who have certain medical issues or are prone to infections might need to take extra precautions or speak with a healthcare provider.
Final Words
A distinctive and fashionable option for anyone wishing to expand their ear jewelry collection are orbital piercings. There is an orbital piercing to fit your style, whether you choose a dramatic, statement-making item or a clean, minimalist appearance. An orbital piercing can be a gorgeous addition to your body art that highlights your uniqueness if you take the necessary care and attention.
To guarantee a seamless healing process, do your homework, pick a reliable piercer, and make the commitment to the required aftercare before undergoing an orbital piercing. Choosing between an orbital piercing made of cartilage, a helix, or a double will definitely draw attention to your body alteration and give your appearance a little something extra.
