MEDUSA
MEDUSA PIERCING IN BAKERSFIELD, CA
A Medusa piercing is a centered upper-lip piercing placed in the philtrum, just below the nose, creating a clean focal point above the lip.
— QUICK FACTS —
STARTING PRICE
$50
Standard jewelry included. Upgrades available.
PAIN LEVEL (1-10)
4/10
HEALING TIME
2 to 3 months
DOWNSIZING TIME
After 2 to 4 weeks
ID required. See our ID requirements page for more information.
AGE REQUIREMENT
16+
Flat Back Studs
Standard jewelry included.
Upgrades available, prices vary.
JEWELRY
ABOUT THIS PIERCING
The Medusa, also called a philtrum piercing, is placed in the center of the upper lip just beneath the nose.
Its centered placement creates a balanced focal point that naturally draws attention to the lips and can work well with a variety of jewelry styles once healed.
The flat back of the jewelry rests inside the mouth, so proper placement and sizing are important for comfort and to minimize unnecessary contact with the teeth and gums.
Your piercer will assess your anatomy and mark the placement carefully before piercing.
WHAT TO EXPECT
CONSULTATION & ANATOMY CHECK
We’ll assess your anatomy, answer any questions, and make sure this piercing is right for you.
Your piercer will carefully mark carefully the center of the philtrum to create a balanced placement that complements your natural features.
MARKING & PLACEMENT
The piercing is performed using sterile, single-use needles and professional jewelry.
THE PIERCING
You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions and have time to ask any additional questions.
AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS
HEALING & AFTERCARE
Proper aftercare is important during healing. Keep both the outside and inside of the piercings clean, avoid unnecessary touching or movement, and follow the oral and external aftercare instructions provided at your appointment.
GOOD TO KNOW
Some swelling and tenderness are expected during the first few days, so initial jewelry is longer to allow for swelling.
May Experience Swelling
Centering Matters
Because the Medusa sits in the center of the face, careful marking and placement are especially important for creating a balanced appearance.
Initial jewelry allows room for swelling and should typically be downsized after 2 to 4 weeks to support comfortable healing.
Downsizing is Recommended
Avoid biting, twisting, pulling, or repeatedly moving the jewelry while healing. Excess movement can irritate the piercings and slow healing.
Avoid Playing with the Jewelry
FAQs
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Yes. “Medusa” is the common name for a philtrum piercing, which is placed in the groove between the upper lip and the nose.
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Because the flat back sits inside the mouth, improperly fitted jewelry or repeated contact can irritate the teeth or gums. Proper placement, timely downsizing, and correctly fitted jewelry help reduce that risk.
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It’s best to avoid kissing and other oral contact during the early healing period. This helps reduce irritation, movement, and exposure to bacteria while the piercing is fresh.
READY TO BOOK?
Choose your appointment time online. Standard jewelry is included in the listed starting price, and upgrades are available.
NOT SURE WHICH PIERCING IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
View our full piercing services list to explore all options.
