Vertical labret: features, photos, reviews and consequences

What it is

This is a rather rare, but very original type of piercing, which is not particularly in demand among fans of body modifications due to an impressive list of potential complications and fairly high pain. An undeniable advantage of such a labret is the fact that the puncture site is almost completely devoid of large blood vessels. With this operation, the likelihood of severe bleeding and facial expression disorders is excluded.

Vertical lip labret is carried out from bottom to top, exactly in the center and perpendicularly. At the moment the puncture is performed, the needle is inserted into the base of the lower lip and passes through its entire thickness strictly at the upper point in the middle. True, in this case both ends of the decoration will be visible. No less popular is another method of piercing, in which the exit hole is placed inside the mouth - where the metal decor will not touch the teeth and damage them. In this case, only one tip of the decoration remains visible.

Possible complications and consequences

All types of piercing are an invasive procedure, so they do not exclude not only the presence of pain during the process and during wound healing. Firstly, doctors mention allergic reactions, which cannot be insured against - the body may not like any medicines that the master works with, or even the metal from which the jewelry is made. There are also certain risks that you need to consider before getting a lip piercing:

• Infection - if the instruments were not sterile, pathogenic microorganisms can enter the wound, which can cause suppuration (the simplest option) or, much worse, blood poisoning. Depending on the qualifications and degree of compliance of the master with sanitary standards, the client can get either a mild infection or HIV.
• Damage to teeth - this is affected not only by the actions of the master during the procedure, but also by the quality of the jewelry, its size (it can touch the enamel), interaction with it, and incorrect attempts to remove it.
• The appearance of an inflammatory process in the puncture area and swelling is a common consequence (the probability of occurrence is about 30%), and is not the worst thing, since it goes away after using local medications.
• Scarring of tissue (especially if you make a ring in the middle of the lip), which does not go away even after removing jewelry.

Features of the vertical labret of the lower lip

Most often, girls prefer to do this type of piercing, since it looks inappropriate and very ridiculous on men’s lips. The main advantage of this piercing lies in the visual increase in lip volume. The shiny details of the decoration visually make them more magnificent, sensual, expressive, and plump.

It is very important to install the earring in such a way that its clasp does not touch the teeth or does so as rarely as possible. After all, due to friction with metal, tooth enamel gradually begins to deteriorate, as a result of which, instead of beautiful lips, the girl becomes the owner of caries.

A vertical labret is not suitable for those who wear braces to change their bite and straighten their teeth. The products will greatly interfere with each other and constantly cling, causing discomfort.

Material of manufacture

Labret products are made from different materials and can have different purposes.

Labrets with internal threads are the best option for healing a fresh ear piercing. Products for initial wear should be made of hypoallergenic material. Photos of labrets made of titanium, bioplast, bioflex indicate a wide selection of jewelry, among which everyone can choose their own option.

Titanium products are a recommended option for people prone to allergic reactions. This inert material is used for implants, speedy healing of wound surfaces during punctures.

Medical steel is the most common and relatively cheap alloy for piercing products. But given the presence of nickel in the composition, it can lead to skin dermatitis and cause an allergic reaction.

Plastic labrets are universal in that they can serve as primary products after a puncture. The surface of the rod of products made from bioflex and bioplats is quite smooth, which is optimal for a better healing process. At the same time, lightweight plastic models are distinguished by a huge variety of colors and decorations.

Positive qualities of bioplastic products:

• Inertness towards chemicals. Not subject to destruction or deformation.
• Resistant to temperature changes and ultraviolet rays. With decoration you can visit the sauna, sunbathe, take a hot shower.
• The lightness of the product promotes faster healing of the wound and makes the decoration almost imperceptible.
• The hypoallergenic properties of the material make it safe for use by pregnant women and people with sensitive skin.
• A wide range of colors and shapes.

Products made of gold and silver are best used as decoration for a healed puncture. 585 gold contains nickel, which can cause allergic dermatitis.

Silver jewelry labrets are susceptible to oxidation and this feature suggests their use only as decoration.

Often, the surface of jewelry is not polished enough and can accumulate dust and be a breeding ground for bacteria. Therefore, it is better to make the initial choice on more modest products with high quality materials.

Features of the procedure

This puncture is quite painful, and not everyone is ready to endure such sensations for the sake of beauty.

The procedure itself is not particularly difficult. But those who decide to decorate their lips with such a piercing should remember that any violation of the integrity of the skin requires compliance with strict sanitary standards. So you shouldn’t get down to business at home; it’s better to go to a specialized office or tattoo parlor with a good reputation. In this case, it is advisable to take into account reviews, the skill level of the master, the cost of the service in the establishment and the ability to choose an earring.

A competent specialist will tell you during a preliminary consultation about the features of the procedure, help you choose the appropriate jewelry material, clarify the absence of any contraindications, and only after that will set a date for the puncture.

What is piercing

The name of this procedure comes from the English “piercing”, which translates as “puncture”, and it is a modification of the body for the purpose of decorating it. The very concept of “piercing” in the modern world can mean not only the procedure, but also the products that are worn in the created hole. For most people today, this is a simple way of self-expression, especially if you take into account subcultures whose members wear a lot of metal (rockers, punks, etc.), but there are several goals in carrying out this invasive procedure:

• Religious - mainly refers to eastern peoples, in whom piercings of the lips, ears and other areas of the face were performed for spiritual reasons.
• Aesthetic – more characteristic of young people, who follow the example of Western stars who set the fashion for changes in appearance.
• Practical - concerned the ancient peoples: this is how some Romans hooked the edges of their cloaks onto rings embedded in the skin.
• Physiological – concerns decorations on the genitals: piercing the nipples or genitals increases the sensitivity of these areas, which helps to diversify sexual life and brighten sensations during sexual intercourse.

How does the process work?

How exactly is the puncture performed? The vertical labret is made in several stages:

1. Together with the master, you choose a piece of jewelry from the salon’s assortment or bring it with you.
2. The specialist will advise you regarding certain prohibitions and rules for caring for the puncture after the procedure.
3. The instruments and earring are placed in an autoclave for sterilization.
4. After all the necessary devices have been processed, the intended puncture site is lubricated with an antiseptic inside and outside.
5. Markings are made to maintain aesthetics and geometry.
6. Using surgical punches, the lip is slightly pinched and pulled back.
7. Using a sharp needle, the master makes a neat puncture, immediately after which he inserts the jewelry and secures it.
8. The puncture is disinfected.

Keep in mind that the process must use a sterile needle, the packaging of which will be opened in your presence. In addition, the technician must wear rubber gloves at all times.

The manipulation itself lasts less than a minute.

Puncture procedure

So, how to do a lip piercing? After selecting the jewelry, you need to mark the puncture. In the case of side lip piercings (Monroe and Madonna), the piercing can be done almost along the entire perimeter, the main thing is that you like the place. But the upper lip piercing and the lower lip piercing (Medusa and vertical labret) are performed strictly in the center.

First, the master disinfects the puncture site and makes a point, then holds the skin with a clamp and performs a through puncture, after which he carefully inserts the labret using a taper and screws the screw on. A lip piercing is done fairly quickly, so it is considered a not particularly painful piercing.

Contraindications

Vertical labret is a piercing that is a minimally invasive procedure. It has a number of limitations for use in people with certain pathologies and characteristics. The main prohibition applies to those who suffer from skin diseases and herpes on the lips. Such surgical interventions cannot be performed during exacerbations of colds, infectious and viral diseases.

In what cases is it prohibited to perform a vertical labret, as well as other punctures:

• Defects of blood vessels. Due to problems with blood, healing of the injury takes quite a long time and is often accompanied by various complications.
• Pregnancy period. The contraindication is not categorical, but such an intervention is undesirable for the body of a woman carrying a child.
• Weakened immunity. In this case, rejection of the earring is possible.
• Insulin-dependent form of diabetes mellitus.
• Stomatitis, caries, periodontal disease and other pathologies of the oral cavity.
• Malignant tumors in the body.
• Chronic defects that lead to deviations in the functioning of internal organs.
• Psychological disorders, epileptic seizures and traumatic brain injuries.

Objectively assess the state of your health and do not try to hide existing problems from the specialist. After all, the procedure, the duration of healing of the resulting wound, and the development of all kinds of complications, for example, inflammation or rejection of jewelry, largely depend on this.

Possible consequences and side effects

Vertical labret is a simple, but not completely safe procedure. This type of piercing can cause a number of complications. Especially if serious mistakes were made during this procedure.

Earring rejection

A metal barbell or earring pulled through the tissue of the central part of the lower lip are foreign objects, the presence of which creates additional stress on the body's immune system. In this case, the person who made the vertical labret may develop a rejection effect.

This is an acute immune reaction, the manifestation of which is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• redness of the surface of the lip;
• swelling of epithelial tissues;
• discharge of purulent or sanguineous exudate in the puncture area;
• constant leakage of blood from the damaged area of ​​the lip;
• severe pain, which reduces the quality of life and complicates the process of eating and drinking.

The effect of rejection of the metal structure installed during the upper labret procedure can develop even if the highest quality medical steel jewelry is used. To minimize the risk of an acute immune reaction of the body, it is necessary to use titanium alloy grade G23.

Damage to teeth or gums

The vertical labret involves installing a metal rod directly in the center of the lower lip. Even with careful eating and careful care of the pierced tissue surface, the upper part of the installed jewelry will cause damage to the gums and enamel of the lower teeth.

According to medical statistics, from 19 to 68% of people who have undergone a vertical labret seek dental care.

In this case, the following damage to the gums and front teeth of the lower jaw may occur:

• gum recession;
• chips and cracks of the lower incisors;
• development of caries and the appearance of root stones;
• abrasion of enamel, which automatically entails increased sensitivity of teeth to sour, too cold or hot, sweet foods;
• exposure of the neck of the lower teeth;
• chronic inflammation and increased bleeding of the gums.

Patients with such complications will require dental care after installation of a vertical labret. In especially severe cases, it is necessary to remove severely damaged teeth and then install implants or crowns.

Infection

Piercing in the tissues of the lower lip is a foreign metal object that constantly irritates the mucous membrane, taste buds of the oral cavity, and also provokes active salivation. In this regard, a certain part of the saliva still ends up at the puncture site.

An open wound of the lower lip becomes infected with Staphylococcus aureus, strain A streptococci, as well as pathogenic microorganisms - pseudomonads. In medical practice, cases are periodically recorded when, after performing a vertical labret, a person developed a complication in the form of oral candidiasis.

Infection of the lower lip caused by a vertical labret is manifested by the following pathological symptoms:

• redness of the oral mucosa in the gum area of ​​the lower jaw;
• swelling of the pierced lip;
• acute throbbing pain, which intensifies in the evening and at night;
• suppuration of the tissues of the lower lip with the release of serous exudate;
• increase in body temperature to 37-38 degrees Celsius;
• deterioration in general health;
• physical weakness.

Infection of the lower lip as a result of a vertical labret requires immediate removal of the placed jewelry. After this, surgical debridement of the infected tissue is performed. The doctor cleans the suppurating lip from purulent exudate and treats it with an antiseptic solution. Infection of the lower lip occurs due to violation of sterility standards and improper care of the puncture site.

Scarring

The development of excessive scarring is one of the most common complications of vertical labret.

The appearance of such consequences is caused by the negative impact of the following factors:

• severe injury to the lower lip, which led to the formation of a large scar;
• pathological proliferation of fibrous tissue;
• an allergic reaction to a metal structure that was integrated into the structure of the lower lip after the puncture;
• infection of epithelial tissues by bacterial microorganisms;
• severely weakened immunity, due to which tissue healing was too slow.

The disadvantage of the effect of excessive scarring of the lower lip is a hypertrophic change in the epithelial tissue. Extensive keloid scars remain visually noticeable even after complete healing of the puncture or removal of the installed jewelry. In this case, a very noticeable cosmetic defect is created, the elimination of which is only possible through surgical treatment.

Swelling

The appearance of slight swelling is normal for a vertical labret. Swelling of the punctured tissues persists for 3-4 days after this procedure. If the master did everything correctly, observed sterility standards, and carried out preliminary antiseptic treatment of the tissues, then after the specified period of time the swelling of the lower lip will gradually disappear.

The persistence of tissue swelling for more than 5 days indicates that they are infected with a bacterial infection. In such a situation, you must immediately seek medical help from a surgeon.

Nervous system disorder

Vertical labret is a minimally invasive, simple, but still local surgical procedure. Some people who want to get this type of piercing are not psychologically ready for a lower lip piercing.

During the period of healing of injured tissues, against the background of experienced stress, the following disturbances in the functioning of the nervous system may occur:

• fear of medical and cosmetic procedures that involve injections in the facial area;
• nightmares;
• panic attacks;
• attacks of unexplained anxiety;
• lack of self-confidence and development of an inferiority complex;
• nervous tic;
• enuresis.

The above complications periodically occur in people who experienced fright at the time of this procedure. In this case, to restore the normal functioning of the nervous system, you will need the help of a psychologist, neurologist or neurologist.

How to care for a piercing

If you become the owner of a vertical labret, you should remember that the wound requires special care. After all, the oral cavity is the place where numerous bacteria and food debris accumulate. So experts recommend paying special attention to mouth rinses using special antiseptic and regenerating compounds.

Don't forget about other care rules.

• To speed up the healing process, be sure to treat the mucous membrane with Stomatitis, Miramistin or other antiseptic medical solutions. This should be done in the mornings, evenings and after every meal.
• Jewelry can accumulate ichor, dirt, blood and grease. That is why during the first few weeks you should systematically clean the earring using a cotton swab generously soaked in Chlorhexidine.
• On the first day after the procedure, it is necessary to avoid contact with running water. Then, for a few more days, it is advisable to lubricate the wound with a rich cream or ointment, for example, “Rescuer,” to prevent contamination.
• It is strictly forbidden to paint the injured area of ​​skin or apply cosmetics to it.
• The area near the wound may remain swollen and red for the first few days - this is normal. To eliminate the swelling that appears, you can use compresses with Miramistin.

Lip piercing care

Caring for a lip piercing requires careful care . First of all, you will need antiseptic sprays octenisept or miramistin, treatment 2 times a day.

For 3-4 weeks you will have to exclude baths, saunas and hot baths (after taking a shower, treatment is also necessary).

For the first time, we advise you to exclude hot, salty and spicy foods; this also promotes faster healing.

In case of injury and inflammation, baneocin ointment (apply 2 times a day, maximum 5 days). For good healing, exclude any mechanical injuries, do not use cotton swabs/cotton pads when processing, if dried blood forms, do not pick at it under any circumstances, but simply treat it with an antiseptic, in which case it will wash off on its own over time. Replacing the primary decoration with a shorter one (downsize) after 2-3 weeks .

Choosing a decoration for a vertical labret in the lower lip

This type of piercing is good because you can use various decorative elements for it. The range of products is very wide. Different materials are used to produce jewelry, but it is best to give preference to an earring made of special medical alloys, precious metals (silver, gold) or bioplastic - a type of silicone that is very comfortable to wear in winter.

The labret itself is a kind of rod onto which a threaded ball is screwed. The length of the decorative element can vary from 5 to 20 mm, and the diameter of the rod can be 1-1.5 mm.

Earrings and piercing jewelry

Various types of jewelry are used to decorate lip piercings:

• Microbananas
  . These are small curved rods, traditionally decorated with multi-colored balls. They decorate the piercings of Monroe, Madonna and some others;
• Segment rings
  . They are suitable exclusively for piercings in the oral area; they are not used for planar piercings, as they are inconvenient to use. They are ordinary rings that can be divided into parts (segments);
• Circulars
  . Earrings are similar to rings, but instead of segments, they are equipped with threaded connections on the edges. They can have different shapes (snakes look especially original). Made from titanium, steel alloy and gold;

  
  Lip piercing jewelry

• Labrets
  . Jewelry typical for lip piercings. They consist of a flat surface, which is located on the mucous side, a rod, and a decorative top. The upper part of the earrings is decorated with diamonds or rhinestones.

Consequences

According to statistics, in approximately 30% of cases such piercing leads to the development of various complications.

The most common consequence is infection and inflammation. If an infection has entered a fresh wound, then the client should increase the number of antiseptic treatments and systematically apply compresses. If severe swelling or suppuration occurs, you should consult a doctor.

The main cause of inflammation is often improper care and unsuitable material of the product. A person may encounter similar problems due to an earring that is too small or heavy.

Piercing contraindications

Studies carried out already in the 21st century showed that 30% of people who had piercings, especially on the face, experienced complications, some of which (about 1% of all cases) required hospitalization. For this reason, doctors advise paying close attention to medical contraindications so that the craving for beauty does not become fatal. It is not advisable to resort to this procedure:

1. During activation of herpes.
2. Diabetics.
3. If you have skin diseases.
4. Persons with poor blood clotting.
5. When the body is fighting a cold or any viral/bacterial infection.
6. Pregnant women (relative contraindication, should be discussed with your doctor).
7. For congenital blood diseases.