Some possible downsides of a nose piercing could include:

1. Pain: While individual pain tolerance varies, getting a nose piercing can be painful due to the sensitivity of the area.

2. Infection: Any piercing comes with a risk of infection, especially if aftercare instructions are not followed properly.

3. Healing Time: Depending on the type of piercing, healing times can vary, with some taking up to six months to fully heal.

4. Cleaning: During the healing process, using a saline solution twice a day is recommended, so don't think you can just get a piercing and not have to take care of it. Use a gentle cleanser (as directed) and be cautious when applying spot treatments with either salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to fresh piercings, as they're more sensitive and prone to pain (burning or stinging).

5. Scarring: There's a risk of developing a scar or keloid, particularly if the piercing becomes infected or is accidentally torn out.

6. Allergies: Some people may be allergic to certain metals used in piercing jewelry.

7. Career Considerations: Some jobs may have policies against visible piercings.

8. Sensitive Skin: You might have issues with some of the metals in the jewelry or other problems which can cause irritation or even swelling.

9. Avoid: Swimming pools, lakes, rivers, water parks, beaches, hot tubs, etc. until your healing process is complete and you are fully healed.

Remember, it's essential to consult with a professional piercer to understand all potential risks and downsides before getting a nose piercing.

There are several types of nose piercings, each with its own name:

1. Nostril Piercing: This is the most common type of nose piercing, where the piercing is made on the outer part of the nostril, either on the left or right side of the nose.

2. Septum Piercing: This type of piercing goes through the nasal septum, the thin piece of cartilage that separates your right and left nostrils. However, most septum piercings don't pierce the cartilage but rather the softer space of tissue just below the septum.

3. Bridge Piercing: This type of nose piercing is placed horizontally across the bridge of the nose, between the eyes.

4. High Nostril Piercing: Similar to a standard nostril piercing, this is located higher up on the nose, closer to the bridge. This type of piercing is generally more challenging and a more experienced piercer is recommended.

5. Nasallang Piercing: This tri-nasal piercing goes through both nostrils and the septum.

   
   

Remember, no matter what type of nose piercing you're considering; it's important to consult with a professional piercer to discuss your options, the associated risks, and the proper care and healing process for each type of piercing.

Regarding symbolic or secret meanings, the side of the nose you choose to pierce can depend on cultural, traditional, or personal beliefs.

In certain cultures, particularly in South Asia, nose piercings often have specific traditional and symbolic significance. For example, in India, it's common for women to have their left nostril pierced due to the belief in Ayurvedic medicine that this can make childbirth easier.

However, in many Western cultures, there isn't typically a symbolic significance attached to which side of the nose is pierced. Instead, the choice usually comes down to personal preference or aesthetic reasons, such as which side the individual feels looks better or balances their facial features more effectively.

Remember, these are generalizations and individual reasons for choosing a specific side for a nose piercing can vary widely. It's always best to determine what feels right for you, regardless of any supposed symbolic meanings or cultural traditions. And often, that incredible story your friend tells you about an ancient tribe piercing one side of their nose is usually more fiction than fact.

If you are considering self-piercing, including nose piercings, is NOT recommended. Your safety and health need to have piercings performed by a professional.

Piercing your own nose or any other part of your body at home can carry significant risks, including:

1. Infection: Without the proper sterilization equipment and training, you significantly increase your risk of infection.

2. Improper placement: Without professional training, it's easy to misjudge the placement or angle of a piercing.

3. Increased pain: Professionals know how to minimize pain and discomfort during a piercing.

4. Nerve damage: Particularly in areas like the nose, there's a risk of causing nerve damage if a piercing is not done correctly.

5. Scarring: Incorrectly performed piercings can lead to significant scarring, including keloid scarring.

   
   

Instead of attempting to pierce your own nose, please seek out a professional piercer who has the necessary knowledge, skills, and sterilization equipment. They can provide a safe and clean environment, use the correct tools, help you choose the right jewelry, and give you detailed aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of complications. Remember, it's crucial to prioritize your health and safety over all else!

Professional piercers charge anywhere from $30 to $80 for the piercing service alone, however, location, the piercer's experience, the type of piecing performed, and the jewelry chosen all play factors in the cost of the service. Jewelry can range from $10 to $100 or more.

It's essential to remember that while cost is a consideration, it shouldn't be the primary factor in choosing a piercer. Safety, cleanliness, and the piercer's professional reputation and experience are much more important to ensure a good piercing experience. It only takes a few seconds to perform the actual piercing, so you want to get the best piercer in your area.

Always make sure to ask about the total cost, including jewelry, before getting a piercing, and ensure that you understand the aftercare instructions to maintain the health of your new piercing.