Piercing Dimples: Process, Discomfort, Recovery Time, and Potential Hazards
Back dimple piercings, a unique form of dermal piercing, have gained popularity in recent years. These piercings are inserted into the lower back, specifically in the dimples of Venus where the pelvis and spine meet.
The Piercing Process
During the procedure, the piercer will clean, disinfect, and mark the areas before choosing between a clamp-and-needle technique or a skin punch. For anchors, a clamp-and-needle is used, while divers are inserted using a skin punch. The piercer will then pierce the dimple and place the chosen jewelry into its new skin-home.
Jewelry Options
Back dimple piercings typically use either anchors or divers as jewelry. Common metal options for these pieces include titanium, stainless steel, niobium, gold, and various types of alloys. It's essential to avoid nickel due to potential allergies.
Cost and Healing Time
The cost of a back dimple piercing can range between $70 and $100, although the cost of jewelry is not always included. It's important to note that changing jewelry should be done by a professional piercer, as bumping out the anchor foot can be difficult.
Back dimple piercings typically take several months to fully heal. Factors such as general health, hygiene, finding the right piercer, and patience can affect healing time.
Risks and Complications
Infection is a potential risk for back dimple piercings, especially if the insertion process isn't performed correctly or if unclean tools are used. Poor personal hygiene can also increase the risk of skin infections and other gnarly side effects.
Signs of an infected back dimple piercing include severe pain and swelling, skin that feels hot to the touch, a foul smell, fever, body aches, yellow, green, or pus-like ooze, and widening of the piercing hole, jewelry coming out of place, hardening skin forming around the jewelry, and the jewelry becoming droopy or floppy.
Tissue damage can result if the anchor is too deep, and displacement of the anchor can occur if it isn't inserted deep enough or if it gets roughed up too much. Rejection of the piercing is also possible, causing the body to push the jewelry out.
Choosing the Right Piercer
The procedure should be performed by an experienced piercer in a sterile environment. The most famous piercer known for back dimple piercings is Elayne Angel, who opened her piercing studio, Rings of Desire, in 1992.
In conclusion, back dimple piercings offer a unique and stylish addition to one's appearance. However, it's crucial to consider the potential risks, follow proper aftercare, and find a reputable piercer to ensure a safe and successful piercing experience.
