Medusa Piercing Guide UK

Medusa Piercing: Healing, Aftercare and What to Expect in the UK

The Medusa piercing is a true centrepiece. Nestled in the philtrum—the groove between your upper lip and nose—it’s bold, beautifully balanced and increasingly popular among those who want a facial piercing that’s equal parts striking and elegant. Whether styled with a subtle flat disc or a glinting gemstone, the Medusa commands attention without overwhelming the face.

But like any facial piercing, the Medusa comes with its own set of considerations, from the process and pain to healing and aftercare. If you’re thinking about getting one, or just curious about what it involves, this guide covers everything you need to know before taking the plunge in a UK piercing studio.

What Is a Medusa Piercing?

The Medusa piercing is placed centrally in the philtrum—the vertical groove in the centre of the upper lip, just below the septum. It’s a lip piercing, but unlike labret or Monroe styles, it sits at the midline of the face, offering perfect symmetry and a clean, classic appearance.

It’s usually fitted with a labret-style stud, which features a flat disc at the back and a decorative front, such as a small ball, gem or spike. Because of its central placement and close proximity to both teeth and gums, correct jewellery size and professional placement are essential to prevent long-term oral irritation.

While it’s often worn solo, the Medusa pairs beautifully with septum or nostril piercings, and can even be part of a full lip set with labrets or vertical piercings. It’s a confident, fashionable choice with a strong aesthetic payoff.

What Happens During the Piercing?

After your consultation, your piercer will examine your philtrum area and assess your anatomy. They’ll clean the area thoroughly, both inside and outside the lip, before marking the entry and exit points to ensure perfect alignment.

You’ll be asked to relax your mouth while the piercer gently clamps the area to prevent movement. Using a sterile, single-use needle, they’ll pierce through from the outside in—starting at the philtrum and exiting inside the mouth just above the gums.

A labret stud with a longer post (to allow for swelling) is inserted straight away, and the piercing is cleaned again. You’ll then receive detailed aftercare advice before heading out.

The entire process is quick—usually under ten minutes—and most studios offer private or semi-private spaces for facial piercings.

Does a Medusa Piercing Hurt?

Pain is subjective, but most people rate the Medusa piercing as moderately uncomfortable rather than intensely painful. It’s a quick, sharp pinch followed by a few seconds of pressure. The lip area is sensitive, but the piercing is over very quickly, and most clients find it much easier than anticipated.

Swelling is common for the first few days and may make the upper lip feel tight or awkward. Some tenderness when eating or speaking is expected, but this usually eases within a week.

How Long Does It Take to Heal?

The Medusa piercing typically takes six to twelve weeks to heal on the surface, though full internal healing can take slightly longer. During the first week, swelling is the most noticeable symptom—your piercer will fit a longer post initially to accommodate this.

As the swelling subsides, you’ll likely need to return to the studio for a shorter bar to prevent the jewellery from rubbing against your teeth and gums. This is important to avoid long-term irritation or gum recession.

During healing, avoid changing the jewellery yourself or touching it unnecessarily. Allow the tissue to settle naturally, and keep up with daily aftercare.

Aftercare for Medusa Piercings

Because it’s both an external and internal piercing, aftercare for the Medusa involves looking after both sides.

Externally, clean the area twice daily with a saline solution or piercing aftercare spray. Gently pat dry with clean paper towel or allow it to air dry.

Internally, rinse your mouth with a non-alcoholic mouthwash after eating, drinking (anything other than water), or smoking. Many piercers recommend saline or saltwater rinses as well—check what your studio prefers.

Avoid kissing, oral activities and spicy or acidic foods in the early days, as these can irritate the healing tissue. Smoking and alcohol can also slow down healing and increase the risk of swelling or infection.

Don’t play with the jewellery or move it back and forth—this can delay healing and cause gum damage. Stick to soft foods for the first few days, and try not to talk excessively or overextend the lip until swelling reduces.

How Much Does a Medusa Piercing Cost in the UK?

In the UK, the Medusa piercing usually costs between £35 and £55, depending on the studio, the piercer’s experience and the jewellery used. Most reputable studios include the piercing, basic titanium jewellery and aftercare instructions in this price.

If you want to upgrade to gold, jewelled or decorative tops, you’ll likely pay more. Some studios also offer a free downsizing appointment, while others may charge a small fee for the shorter bar and fitting—always ask what’s included.

Quality matters—always ensure you’re being pierced with implant-grade titanium or a similarly biocompatible metal.

Risks and What to Watch For

The main risk with a Medusa piercing is oral irritation, especially if the back disc of the jewellery rubs against your gums or teeth. Left unchecked, this can cause enamel wear, gum recession or even tooth sensitivity. That’s why downsizing to a snug-fitting post after the initial swelling is crucial.

Infection is possible, particularly from touching the piercing with unclean hands or not rinsing the mouth after meals. Look out for prolonged swelling, pus, pain or warmth around the piercing.

Other common issues include jewellery embedding if the post is too short too soon, or migration if the piercing is poorly placed. These risks are rare when the piercing is done by a skilled professional and cared for properly.

Swelling that makes talking or eating difficult should reduce within a few days—if it doesn’t, it’s worth contacting your piercer for advice.

Is the Medusa Piercing Right for You?

The Medusa suits many face shapes and works beautifully as a standalone feature or part of a collection of facial piercings. It provides a bold yet balanced aesthetic and is popular with those who appreciate strong symmetry and a clean centreline.

However, it’s not ideal for everyone. If you already have sensitive gums, a history of dental issues or a tendency to fidget with jewellery, it might not be the best choice. Likewise, if you work in a highly conservative environment, you may want to consider how visible facial jewellery aligns with your lifestyle.

If you’re unsure, speak with your piercer—they can advise whether the Medusa is right for your anatomy and suggest alternatives if needed.

Choosing a Studio in the UK

Always go to a licensed UK studio with experienced piercers who follow hygiene regulations and council licensing rules. The studio should use sterile, single-use needles, wear gloves throughout the procedure and only offer jewellery made from safe materials like titanium, niobium or 14k+ gold.

You should be given full aftercare instructions, as well as a clear explanation of swelling, downsizing and follow-up appointments. Your piercer should be able to answer your questions without hesitation.

If the studio uses piercing guns (which are never suitable for this type of piercing), or if anything feels unhygienic or rushed—walk away.

Common Questions and Misconceptions

Will it damage my teeth or gums? It can, if not properly sized or placed. That’s why downsizing after swelling is essential. Long-term wear should be monitored to avoid oral complications.

Does it leave a scar if I take it out? Usually, yes—a small mark or indentation may remain. If removed after years of wear, the scar may be more noticeable.

Can I wear lipstick or makeup over it? Not during healing. Wait until the area is fully healed before applying products near the piercing, and avoid anything scented or alcohol based.

Can I change the jewellery myself? Once healed, yes—but it can be tricky. The backing sits inside the mouth, so changing the top usually involves holding the base steady with clean gloves or tools. If in doubt, visit your piercer.

Does it affect talking or eating? Only briefly. Swelling might make speech or chewing feel odd for a few days, but most people adjust quickly.

Final Thoughts

The Medusa piercing is one of the most elegant and distinctive facial piercings you can choose. Positioned right at the centre of the face, it’s a bold choice that flatters symmetry and works well with other piercings—or as a confident solo feature. With proper placement, high-quality jewellery and a little patience during healing, it can be a beautiful and lasting expression of your personal style.

Choose a reputable UK studio, follow aftercare carefully and embrace the process—you’ll be rewarded with a piercing that continues to make a statement long after the needle’s gone.