A cheek piercing, often referred to as a dimple piercing, is placed on the side of the face, commonly just above the corner of the mouth where a dimple might naturally form.
It can also be positioned within an existing dimple. Because these piercings carry greater risks when not executed correctly, they are less common than other facial piercings.
This article outlines what to anticipate during a cheek piercing, its expense, possible complications, and recommended aftercare.
Cheek or dimple piercing procedure
Prior to performing the piercing, the piercer will inspect your oral area. They’ll be locating the parotid ducts, which channel saliva into the mouth.
This step is crucial because damage to these glands during the piercing can be irreversible.
The piercer will mark the intended spot so you can preview the placement. You will probably rinse your mouth beforehand. If you’re concerned about discomfort, request a topical anesthetic for the skin.
Typically a needle is used rather than a piercing gun, and the piercing may be performed from inside the mouth or from the outside. If the exterior approach is chosen, you might be asked to place a cork or another protective barrier in your mouth so the needle doesn’t harm your tongue or gums.
In some situations, a threaded needle is used so the jewelry can be inserted immediately through the new opening in a single motion.
Cheek piercing pain
Your pain experience depends on individual tolerance. Because the cheek lacks cartilage, it usually hurts less than areas rich in cartilage, such as the upper ear or nose.
Swelling is common after the procedure, and you may notice a taste or sight of blood, which should subside naturally as healing progresses.
How much does it cost?
Cheek piercing prices vary considerably based on the jewelry’s quality and the studio’s location. Expect to pay roughly $40 to $100. Remember: if a price seems unusually low, it likely reflects lower quality or inadequate hygiene practices.
Ensure your chosen piercer is experienced and has performed cheek piercings before. Ask to view photographs of their previous work, especially images of fully healed dimple piercings. You can also request to see their specialty body piercing license. Be familiar with your state’s licensing rules for piercers.
Costs may also differ depending on whether you get one or both cheeks pierced; many people choose bilateral piercings.
Potential side effects of getting a cheek piercing
Because cheek piercings are close to the parotid glands, they carry particular risk. A knowledgeable piercer will avoid the duct, but complications can still occur.
Other negative outcomes are possible as well.
Scarring is common with cheek piercings. Some people even pursue this piercing specifically to create a scar rather than for the jewelry itself.
Signs of infection include yellow discharge, ongoing swelling, persistent pain and redness, and itching. There are home remedies you can attempt, but consult a physician if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 48 hours.
Occasionally the body rejects a piercing, treating it as a foreign object; tissue can expand and push the jewelry outward.
Expect swelling after cheek piercings. Begin with a longer barbell to accommodate swelling so the jewelry doesn’t become embedded and hard to clean. Avoid switching jewelry for 8 to 12 weeks.
When swollen you may be more prone to biting the internal bar, so eat cautiously. Applying a cold pack wrapped in a paper towel for a few minutes can help reduce swelling.
A bump around a cheek or other oral piercing may represent several conditions:
- Abscess (sometimes called a piercing blister), managed by cleaning the area and using a warm compress. If the discharge has a foul odor, see a doctor right away.
- Hypertrophic scar, a common response to skin injury.
- Keloid scar, which results from excess scar tissue formation.
Does a cheek piercing puncture seal up?
The oral cavity is known for rapid healing, which is why burns on the roof of the mouth may feel better quickly. Since a cheek piercing traverses the mucous membrane internally, it may close relatively fast, but it can still leave noticeable external scarring.
Precautions
Cheek piercings are among the riskier facial options due to their closeness to the parotid gland. Always thoroughly vet your piercer first.
Avoid facial piercings if you’ll be traveling or otherwise unable to care for the area properly for up to 8 weeks after the piercing. The site requires careful cleaning at least twice daily throughout that time.
The internal side of the jewelry can rub against your teeth and gums. If you already have cavities, enamel erosion, or gum recession, it’s wiser to skip a cheek piercing to prevent worsening those issues.
Consider more frequent dental checkups to monitor for oral damage from the jewelry. Make sure your jewelry is crafted from hypoallergenic, non-toxic materials, and verify you’re not allergic to the metal used.
Cheek piercing aftercare
Follow these guidelines for proper care of cheek and lip piercings:
- Wash the exterior of the piercing with liquid antibacterial soap or Bactine. If the soap feels too strong, dilute it 1:1 with water. Apply using a cotton swab. Only rotate the jewelry gently after the area has been cleaned.
- Clean the piercing two to three times daily.
- Maintain this regimen for a minimum of 8 weeks.
You can also use a saline solution to clean a new piercing; the NHS suggests a home mix by adding 1/4 teaspoon of salt to roughly 40 mL (about a shot glass) of water. Dry the area only with a fresh paper towel. If you’re uncertain about the best care routine, consult your piercer or a medical professional.
When to see a doctor
Mild pain and swelling are normal during the first week or so after a new piercing. Seek medical attention if your piercing continues bleeding, discharges yellowish pus, or becomes increasingly red or swollen after several days, as these can be signs of infection.
Contact a doctor immediately if you develop a fever or suspect harm to your parotid duct.
Takeaway
Many people like that cheek piercings can create the appearance of dimples or enhance existing ones. When performed correctly, cheek piercings are generally safe, though they do carry certain risks.
Always verify that your piercer is licensed and experienced with cheek piercings, and ensure their equipment and environment are sterile.
Learn proper cleaning and aftercare procedures to lower the chance of infection, and confirm you have the time and resources to care for the piercing before proceeding. For tips on achieving fuller facial appearance you might also find this guide helpful: how to get chubby cheeks.
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