A vertical labret is a type of facial modification that is similar to a labret piercing, which is centered under the lower lip. With a vertical labret, you will have two visible beads showing, one resting below the lower lip, and the other resting on top of the lower lip. The vertical labret piercing is normally done with a curved bar jewelry piece to conform to the curve of the lip.
History
The history of labret piercing dates back to the tribes of Central Africa and South America, specifically the Nuba tribe of Ethiopia and Dogon tribe of Mali. These tribes use lip plates or discs, made from wood or clay, to stretch the piercing to large proportions. In addition, Native Americans and Inuit people of Alaska and northern Canada use walrus ivory, abalone shell, bone, obsidian and wood in the labret piercing in a fashionable sense.
Significance
The vertical labret piercing has become one of the most popular piercings. According to the Painful Pleasures website, the labret piercing was symbolic in a religious way to the Dogon tribe in Mali, and the Djinja women wear plugs or discs in the lip to show a form of possession from the husband. Among the Aztecs and Mayans, labret piercing was reserved for higher classes of male members who wore fashionable jewelry made from pure gold and in the shape of serpents.
Side Effects
The most common side effect from a vertical labret piercing is an allergic reaction. Depending on the jewelry composition, the MayoClinic.com website reports allergic reactions were reported in the jewelry made from nickel.
Infection from the piercing or from after-care has been reported in approximately 10 to 20 percent of all body piercings. Infection is a concern and may cause severe side effects, such as yellow pus, inflammation and redness in the piercing area. In addition, according to the Body Jewelry Guide website, using improper sterilization techniques can transmit bacterial or viral infections, such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, hepatitis B or hepatitis C.
Risks
Some potential risks associated with labret piercing, or any piercing, include scar formation and keloids, a raised area from an overgrowth of scar tissue. In addition, tearing in the piercing area when jewelry is caught on something and accidentally torn out can cause trauma, which may require surgery, according to the MayoClinic.com website.
Warning
When you are trying to locate a piercer to perform a labret piercing, ask questions on experience and licensing. It is important to ensure the piercer is using sanitary techniques, such as disposable gloves and needles, to prevent the spread of infection.
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