What is a Flat Piercing?
What Is It?
Named for it's location in the ear , a flat piercing is literally positioned in the flat area of cartilage in the upper ear. Whereas the helix or industrial is located in the rim of the ear, a flat earring is located below the rim in what would be considered the flatter portions of the ear anatomy. Combined with other cartilage piercings, a set of stretched ears, or beautiful earrings , a flat or series of flat piercings are an amazing way to customize your ear layout. It's even a stunning look on its own.
How painful is it?
Speaking in general, getting your flat pierced is typically considered a pretty painful procedure. Although it might seem like it wouldn't hurt as much as a fleshy piercing, cartilage piercings, especially in the thinner part of the ear, tend to sting a bit more than others.
Low pain tolerance? Don't let this article scare you! Most piercings are done and over with before you know it. If you can handle a quick pinch and some patient aftercare , you'll have a healed flat in no time!
How Long Does A Flat Piercing Take To Heal?
A cartilage piercing will often take six months to show signs of being healed up. Realistically, you should plan for up to a year of healing, as any unwanted complications like a bump , pressure, or snag can add to the healing process.
Aftercare (but not too much aftercare) is very important when it comes to successful healing.
What can you wear in a flat piercing?
A flat piercing is typically adorned with a cartilage stud . Any length stud can work, but a 1/4" (6mm stud) is most likely going to be your best bet. For a little customization, you could try at 5/16" (8mm) stud, although you might find this a bit too long for your personal liking.
If that's the case, try 1/4" studs with both flat back and ball back ends - you might like the aesthetic look of one more than another. For even more flair, try to find cartilage jewelry with a fancy dangly element - just make sure you're healed up before you try to swap anything out.
