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Side Lip Piercing

Ningthoujam Sandhyarani
Side lip piercing is performed either on the left or right side of the upper and lower lips. Some people love to adorn jewelry in pairs, so they go for lip piercing on both sides. With proper aftercare tips and attention, these lip piercings heal completely in about 3 - 4 months.
Body modification in terms of piercing has come a long way from the regular ear piercing and nose piercing. Many people who remain up-to-date on fashion trends consider body piercing as a way to express their personal style statement.

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Hence, some opt for the most extreme types of body piercings such as those performed on the bridge of nose, base of throat, clavicle, and genital areas. The risk of procedures and healing period vary for each type of body piercings.
Even in face piercing practice, there are varied types depending upon the exact location that is getting pierced. For instance, lip piercing encompasses puncturing in and around the lips.

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Accordingly, varied names are given based on the actual piercing site; some examples are labret piercing (lower lip), angel bites (each side of upper lip), snakebites (each side of lower lip) and spider bites (two piercings in the same side of lower lip). In short, the positioning of side lip piercing can be selected as per your personal choice.
So, you have finally decided to get your side lip pierced? Any form of piercing involves puncturing the skin by inserting a sterile needle of accurate size. In addition to painful procedure, there is also a risk of infection and scarring. These same consequences are applicable to piercing on the side of your lips.
Hence, consider taking advice from a qualified piercer and make sure, you visit a reputable salon. Following is a brief overview of lip piercing on the side, which you ought to know before participating this procedure.

Lip Piercing Jewelry

While speaking about the side lip piercing jewelry, stud and captive bead ring are commonly worn at the piercing time. The size of the chosen jewelry should be large enough to give space for initial swelling and inflammation.
However, the most concerning part is selecting the suitable material so as to avoid allergic reactions. You can consider stainless steel, titanium, and inert metal for adorning these lip piercings.

Lip Piercing Procedure

In general, piercings on the sides of the lip are called bites. Whether you go for right side piercing or left side piercing, the procedure is one and the same. The piercing points are first marked on the inside and outside the lip, after which the area is sterilized properly.
Then, the piercer fits a surgical clamp to the lip and piercings are done by using a surgical needle. The last step is of course, inserting the initial jewelry.

Lip Piercing Aftercare

Aftercare tips for lip piercing on the side includes gently rinsing the area with saline solution for 3 - 5 minutes, at least for the first few days after the procedure. What you can do is wet a cotton ball with a weak saline solution and dab the pierced area.
This will aid in removing blood and scar tissues adhered to the jewelry. Repeat the cleaning procedure for 2 - 3 times daily to promote quick healing. Also, oral hygiene is imperative to minimize infection.

Lip Piercing Healing

The healing period for all types of lip piercings, including those performed on the sides is approximately 3 - 6 weeks. Nevertheless, there are certain factors that should be taken into account while concerning complete healing.
Hence, it is always recommended to follow the aftercare tips as directed by the piercer. Failure to do so increases the chances of infection and ultimately results in delayed healing.
For some piercing enthusiasts, piercing on the side of lips is easier to deal with and more comfortable than the center lip piercing. However, before you directly go to the artist for getting it done, it will be wise to talk to people who have already gone through the procedure of this lip piercing type.
You should follow correct cleansing and caring tips to avoid piercing infection. Once complete healing is achieved, the initial jewelry can be replaced with other fashionable designs.