Everything You Need to Know About Bridge Piercings

If you’re looking to stand out with a unique and bold piece of body jewelry, a bridge piercing might be exactly what you’re looking for. This piercing, placed across the bridge of the nose, offers an edgy look that is both striking and stylish. But like any body modification, it’s essential to understand the procedure, healing process, and potential risks before making the decision. So, let’s dive into everything you need to know about bridge piercings!

What is a Bridge Piercing?

A bridge piercing is a surface piercing that is placed horizontally across the bridge of the nose, right between the eyes. Unlike nostril piercings, which are done through the sides of the nose, a bridge piercing goes through the skin on the top of the nose. It’s a relatively visible piercing, and because of its location, it’s often considered to be a bold statement piece.

The Procedure: What to Expect

When you go to a professional piercer for a bridge piercing, they’ll first assess the area to ensure that you’re a good candidate for the piercing. The piercer will check out your anatomy and mark the area where the jewelry will go as well as the trajectory lines. This takes time because we want to make sure the piercing is completely and totally straight. It is in the center of your face, after all. The piercer will then have you check out the lines to get your input. Once they’re perfect, we move on to the piercing part!

After it’s pierced, the jewelry is inserted, and you’ll be given instructions on how to care for it during the healing process. The whole procedure typically takes 15 minutes or so from beginning to end, the marking portion taking the most time.

Pain Level

The pain level of a bridge piercing can vary from person to person. Most people describe the pain as a quick, sharp sensation that lasts only for a second or two. The skin on the bridge of the nose is not as sensitive as other areas like the nostrils, so the pain is often less intense. That being said, everyone’s pain threshold is different, and some may find the experience more uncomfortable than others.

Healing Time and Aftercare

The healing time for a bridge piercing typically takes about 6 months to 1 year to fully heal but that doesn’t mean that it will be swollen or painful for that long. Swelling, redness, drainage, and tenderness usually lasts around two months or so. During this time, it’s crucial to follow proper aftercare to avoid infection and ensure a smooth healing process.

Here’s what you should do to care for your new piercing:

1. Clean Regularly: Use the non-iodized sea salt and glycerin soap recommended by your piercer to clean the piercing. Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol, as they can irritate the piercing.
2. Avoid Touching: Don’t touch the piercing unless you are cleaning it, and make sure your hands are clean if you must touch it.
3. Stay Away from Makeup and Products: Try to keep makeup and other beauty products away from the area during the healing period, as they can be irritating and  introduce bacteria. We understand this can be tricky but you don’t have to completely avoid makeup, just the area right around the piercing.

   

Risks and Complications

While bridge piercings are generally safe when performed by a professional, there are a few risks to keep in mind:

• Rejection: The body can sometimes reject a surface piercing, causing the jewelry to migrate to the surface and eventually be pushed out. This is more common with surface piercings compared to traditional ones like ear piercings.
• Infection: As with any piercing, infection is always a risk if proper aftercare isn’t followed. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain worse than when the piercing was done, or bloody-greenish drainage coming from the piercing.
• Scarring: Surface piercings are more likely to leave scars if they’re removed or rejected, as the skin can be more prone to scarring in these areas.
• Irritation: Wearing jewelry that doesn’t fit properly or engaging in activities that put pressure on the piercing (such as sleeping on it or wearing tight sunglasses) can cause irritation and delayed healing.

Jewelry Options for Bridge Piercings

The most common jewelry for bridge piercings is a straight barbell, but as mentioned earlier, other options are available depending on your preferences and anatomy.

• Straight Barbell: This is the most typical jewelry choice for a bridge piercing, with a bar running across the bridge of your nose with a ball or decorative end on either side.
• Retainers: If you need to hide your piercing for work or take it our for a medical procedure, clear plastic retainers can be worn to make the piercing less noticeable while still keeping it open.

  

Is a Bridge Piercing Right for You?

A bridge piercing is not for everyone. It’s important to consider the anatomy of your nose and whether it is suitable for a piercing in that area. If you have a thinner bridge or a very prominent nose, the piercing might not work as well for you. Additionally, it’s important to think about your lifestyle and whether you can commit to the aftercare process to ensure proper healing.

That said, a bridge piercing can be a stunning way to add a unique, personal touch to your look. If you’re into alternative body art or simply want a piercing that makes a statement, this could be the perfect choice for you.

Final Thoughts

Bridge piercings can be a bold addition, but like any piercing, they come with their own set of responsibilities. It’s essential to go to a professional piercer, carefully follow aftercare instructions, and be aware of potential risks. If you decide that a bridge piercing is right for you, it can be a beautiful and eye-catching accessory that enhances your look for years to come.