Bridge Piercing

All You Need to Know About Bridge Piercings

Are you ready to dive into the world of bridge piercings and explore the most daring aspect of body modification? Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a thrilling journey discovering everything you need to know about bridge piercings. From their fascinating history to essential tips for a successful piercing, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive into the fascinating world of nose bridge piercings!

What is a bridge piercing?

A bridge piercing is located at the root of the nose, specifically at the upper end of the nasal bridge in the crease between the eyebrows. It can be done horizontally or vertically, with the latter being called the “third eye piercing.” However, the horizontal version is more common. Bridge piercings are also known as “Erl piercings”, it is named after body modification pioneer Erl Van Aken, who was one of the first to wear this piercing. Before getting your bridge pierced, it is necessary to understand some important information and considerations.

What to Expect at Your Bridge Piercing Appointment

Before the actual piercing, the area is carefully disinfected, and the entry and exit points on the nasal bridge are marked with a pen. A special cannula is then used to pierce the skin fold at the root of the nose. To minimize pressure on the nasal bone and prevent nerve damage, the skin fold is lifted as far away from the bone as possible during the piercing.

A slightly longer, curved barbell with titanium balls at the ends is typically used as the initial jewelry. The bar’s thickness should be 1.2 millimeters; anything thicker than 1.6 millimeters may cause excessive pressure.

Once your piercing has fully healed, you can have the initial jewelry replaced by another piece. This should always be done by a professional piercer. Bridge piercings work well with curved barbells or bananabells – small, slightly curved bars with balls on either side. Straight barbells should be avoided.

High-quality piercing jewelry is made from titanium, while surgical stainless steel contains nickel and can cause allergies or inflammation.

Does a bridge piercing hurt?

The pain associated with a bridge piercing is generally considered moderate, as it only involves piercing the skin and not the cartilage. Everyone’s pain threshold is different, so it’s difficult to provide an exact measure of the discomfort. However, many people compare the sensation to that of an ear cartilage piercing or a blood test.

The skin on the nose bridge is clamped with a specialized tool and then punctured with a needle. In some cases, the area may be slightly numbed, making the sensation feel more like a small prick. It’s worth noting that the clamping of the skin might be slightly more uncomfortable than the piercing itself. Ultimately, the pain experienced during a bridge piercing will vary from person to person.

How Much Does a Bridge Piercing Cost?

The price of a bridge piercing varies mainly based on the studio and the region. Additionally, not all piercing studios offer this type of piercing, as it requires specific expertise. Generally, the price ranges between $30 and $70. The cost includes the piercing itself, the second piece of jewelry, and initial care products. It’s best to inquire about pricing at your chosen studio beforehand and compare with other studios to find the best fit for your needs.

Bridge Piercing Healing Time

Bridge piercings generally heal faster than other nose piercings, with an average healing time of 2 to 6 months. During this time, it is essential that you do not remove the jewelry and that you follow the follow-up instructions provided by your piercer. Keep in mind that even if the piercing appears healed externally, the internal tissue may still be healing. Patience is essential for the best results.

After this period, you can switch to a shorter curved barbell if necessary, but the internal tissue will need several more weeks to heal. A visit to your piercer to confirm complete healing is essential before discontinuing any care routine, as the piercing may appear to be healed before it is fully recovered.

Proper Aftercare for Your Bridge Piercing

Bridge piercings typically heal completely within 3 to 6 months. To avoid inflammation, ensure proper aftercare and hygiene. Here are the most important tips for a fast and effective healing process:

• Avoid touching, moving, or playing with the piercing. If necessary, disinfect your hands thoroughly beforehand.
• Spray the area with a disinfectant spray three times daily.
• For the first few days, avoid blood thinners like aspirin and protect the piercing from soap and cosmetics using a band-aid.
• During the first two weeks, avoid swimming, certain sports, and saunas.

What Are the Risks of Bridge Piercing?

Bridge piercings are considered relatively dangerous due to certain risks. If the piercing gets caught on clothing or hair, it can cause significant pain. Headaches may occur for a few hours after the professional piercing appointment.

The greatest danger is excessive pressure on the nasal bone, which can lead to inflammation. Superficial inflammation can then spread and become nerve inflammation, potentially damaging important cranial nerves. That’s why it’s crucial to have a professional piercer with experience and sufficient knowledge of facial anatomy perform the procedure. Having previous piercing experience is recommended so you know how to properly care for and manage your piercing during the healing process, as well as recognize any potential complications or issues.

Choosing the Right Jewelry for Your Bridge Piercing

When it comes to selecting the perfect jewelry for your bridge piercing, it’s essential to consider your anatomy and listen to your piercer’s recommendations. The most suitable type of jewelry for a bridge piercing is a straight barbell, as it fits your nose’s anatomy and minimizes the risk of rejection.

Your piercer will help determine the appropriate gauge for your piercing based on the available tissue in the area. The larger the gauge you can comfortably wear, the better it will be to prevent rejection. Once your piercing has fully healed, you can explore various straight barbells adorned with gemstones, spikes, pearls, or other beautiful bead ends.

As for the material used in bridge piercing jewelry, titanium and gold are the top choices. Titanium is a nickel-free metal that is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for most people, though it can be a bit pricier. Piercing experts highly recommend using implant-grade titanium or solid gold jewelry, especially for an initial piercing. Titanium is a superior quality metal compared to surgical steel, which may contain nickel that some people might react to.

Can we wear glasses with a bridge piercing?

One downside of a bridge piercing is that it can interfere with wearing glasses. The compatibility largely depends on the type of glasses you wear. Thick plastic frames and models with tight bridges can cause uncomfortable friction and inflammation around the piercing.

The most suitable glasses have delicate frames and a top edge that curves downward in the middle. With the vast variety of eyewear available, you’ll be able to find a style that suits both your face shape and your piercing.

How To Change Your Bridge Piercing Jewelry?

Changing the jewelry in your bridge piercing might be a bit tricky due to its location, but with some practice and guidance, you’ll get the hang of it. When you’re ready to change the jewelry, first make sure that the piercing has completely healed.

• Gently unscrew the internally threaded bead end from one side of the straight barbell
• Carefully slide the bar through the piercing
• Attach the bead end securely to the other side, without over-tightening

If you find it challenging to change your bridge piercing jewelry on your own, don’t hesitate to visit your piercer or a reputable professional in your area for assistance. They can not only help you swap the jewelry but also show you some techniques for future changes. Remember, it’s essential to avoid removing or replacing jewelry until the area is fully healed.

Bridge Piercing Scar

Bridge piercings, like other types of piercings, can sometimes leave scars after they’re removed or retired. The type of scar left behind can vary depending on an individual’s skin type and healing process. Here’s a brief overview of the three common types of scars that may form after a bridge piercing:

• Hypertrophic scars: These scars occur when the body produces excess collagen during the healing process. Hypertrophic scars are raised, red, and typically confined to the area of the original piercing. They may gradually improve over time and can be treated with silicone gel sheets or corticosteroid creams.

• Keloid scars: Keloids are a more severe form of scarring, extending beyond the original piercing site. They are raised, thick, and can continue to grow over time. People with a genetic predisposition to keloid formation are more likely to develop this type of scar. Treatment options include corticosteroid injections, silicone gel sheets, and, in some cases, surgical removal.

• Atrophic scars: Atrophic scars are indented or sunken, resulting from a loss of collagen and tissue during the healing process. They are less common with piercings but can still occur. Treatment options for atrophic scars include dermal fillers, laser therapy, or microneedling.

To reduce the risk of scarring, it is necessary to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer and seek professional advice if you notice any unusual signs during the healing process. Remember that the skin heals differently from one person to another and some scarring may be unavoidable, but proper care can help reduce the risk of visible scarring.

FAQs

Does a bridge piercing touch the bone?

No, bridge piercings do not touch the bone. They are surface piercings, which means they only go through the skin, not the underlying cartilage or bone. However, it’s crucial to have a professional piercer perform the procedure to avoid damaging any critical nerves or structures in the area.

How bad are bridge piercing scars?

The severity of bridge piercing scars depends on the individual’s skin type, healing process, and aftercare routine. Some people may develop minimal scarring, while others might experience more noticeable hypertrophic, keloid, or atrophic scars. To minimize scarring, follow proper aftercare instructions and consult with your piercer if you notice any unusual changes during the healing process.

Can you sleep with a bridge piercing?

Yes, you can sleep with a bridge piercing, but it’s essential to be cautious during the initial healing period. Sleeping itself is not usually an issue since there isn’t much movement involved. However, it’s crucial to avoid sleeping directly on the piercing or putting too much pressure on it, as this can cause irritation and slow down the healing process. If you’re concerned about your bridge piercing, try sleeping on your back or the side opposite the piercing.