A Guide to Orbital Piercings

An orbital piercing is a truly unique and captivating style of body modification. It involves the strategic placement of two or more individual piercings, which are then connected by a single ring, often a clicker or seamless ring. Unlike traditional piercings that involve a single puncture through a specific area of the ear or other parts of the body, an orbital piercing creates a visually striking loop by joining this separate entry and exit points.

Concept and Style:

The term “orbital” refers to the circular nature of the jewellery used, creating a hoop that orbits through two or more piercing holes.

This type of piercing is designed to give the appearance of a continuous ring through multiple piercings, which sets it apart from standard piercings that only involve a single hole.

Common Locations:

  • Earlobe: One of the most common places for an orbital piercing. It involves two punctures on the lobe, positioned to allow a ring to pass through both.
  • Helix: The upper cartilage of the ear is another popular site, where two holes are pierced in close proximity on the helix.
  • Other Areas: Orbital piercings can also be done on other parts of the ear such as the conch, or even other parts of the body like the nose or lip, depending on anatomy and preference.

Jewellery:

  • Clicker Rings: These rings have a hinge mechanism that makes them easy to open and close. They are popular for orbital piercings due to their secure fit and ease of use.
  • Seamless Rings: These rings provide a smooth and continuous look, often preferred for their aesthetic appeal. They need to be carefully inserted and closed by a professional to maintain the seamless appearance.

Procedure:

  • Planning: A professional piercer first marks the points where the piercings will be placed, ensuring they are aligned correctly to accommodate the ring.
  • Piercing: Each hole is pierced individually. The piercer uses a sterilised needle to make the punctures.
  • Jewellery Insertion: Once the piercings have been made, the ring is threaded through both holes, completing the orbital piercing.

Healing and Aftercare:

  • Healing Time: The healing process can vary depending on the location of the piercings and individual healing rates, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months.
  • Aftercare: Proper aftercare is crucial to prevent infection and ensure smooth healing. This includes cleaning the area with saline solution, avoiding unnecessary touching, and following the piercer’s specific aftercare instructions.

Advantages:

  • Unique Appearance: Orbital piercings stand out due to their distinctive look, making them a popular choice for those seeking a more customised and artistic form of body jewellery.
  • Versatility: They can be adapted to various parts of the ear or body, allowing for personalized expressions of style.

Considerations:

  • Professional Piercer: It’s essential to have the procedure done by a skilled and experienced piercer to ensure proper placement and minimise risks.
  • Pain and Healing: Since it involves multiple piercings, the pain and healing time may be slightly more intense than a single piercing. Proper aftercare is important to facilitate healing and prevent complications.

In summary, an orbital piercing is not just a single puncture but a stylistic and innovative form of body art that connects multiple piercings with a single ring, creating a captivating and unique visual effect. Whether placed on the earlobe, helix, or another body part, orbital piercings offer a distinctive way to showcase individual style and creativity.