Fast Facts
- Placement: A single-point piercing on the chest
- Cost: $70-$100
- Pain: 5 to 7 out of 10.
- Healing time: About 3 months.
- Jewelry: Anchors, divers, barbells.
- Risks: Infection, scarring and keloid, migration and rejection, allergic reaction, and damage to underlying tissue or nerves.
What Is a Chest Dermal Piercing?
A chest dermal piercing is a single-point piercing on the chest because there is only one entry point through the skin.
The piercer first creates a small hole using a dermal punch or a piercing needle to insert the jewelry anchor into the skin. Afterward, the top is screwed in place, giving the appearance of beads on the chest.
Depending on the type of jewelry used, the bead can be interchanged for different styles by the wearer.
Chest Dermal Piercing Pain
On a pain scale of 1 to 10, the pain level for a dermal piercing is typically reported to be around 5 to 7. While chest dermal piercings may cause discomfort, it is manageable and short-lived.
Depending on pain tolerance, a chest dermal piercing may seem more painful than surface piercings.
Chest Dermal Piercing Healing Time
While the healing time of some piercings is substantial, chest dermal piercings usually heal within 3 months. The healing time depends on the individual and whether they follow appropriate aftercare practices. If complications or infections occur, the healing process may take longer.
Chest dermal piercings can last for years if properly taken care of.
Chest Dermal Piercing Cost
What does a dermal chest piercing cost? You can typically expect to pay anywhere between $70-$100 for such a piercing. That being said, the cost of a chest dermal piercing depends on the studio.
It is important to always go to a professional piercer to mitigate the risk of serious infections or complications.
Risks Associated With Chest Dermal Piercings
The risks of receiving a chest dermal piercing are similar to those of all piercings. The most common complications include:
- Infections at the piercing site
- Scarring and keloids
- Migration and rejection if the anchor placement is incorrect
- Tissue damage if the placement is too deep
- Hypergranulation if the jewelry is too tightly secured
- Allergic reaction from the type of metal used
A common risk some people encounter with dermal piercings is the development of keloids, which are large raised areas of scar tissue. Some people are prone to developing keloids and should consider their risks before getting a dermal piercing.
If complications arise, it is necessary to consult a piercer or medical provider. They will advise further instructions for appropriate care or determine if removal is necessary.
Pros and Cons of Chest Dermal Piercings
Dermal piercings are different than surface piercings. However, like any other type of piercing or body modification, it is vital to consider the pros and cons before getting one.
Pros
- Dermal piercings are usually less painful than other piercings.
- Chest dermal piercings take less time to heal.
- They are easy to conceal with clothing as necessary.
- They are small, decorative, and can last longer than surface piercings if properly cared for.
Cons
- They have a higher risk of becoming entangled or pulled by garments or hair.
- Chest dermal piercings may eventually reject, although the length of time depends on proper aftercare practices.
- Dermal piercing jewelry can cause infection if it’s not kept clean.
- Using improper piercing methods can cause tissue or nerve damage.
- Chest dermal piercings can migrate.
Source: One Beautiful Disaster.
Dermal Chest Piercing Jewelry
Most professional piercers recommend anchor or diver jewelry for dermal piercings. However, hair can become tangled in both types. Therefore, keeping hair away from the piercing is crucial, especially during the healing process.
Necklaces and chains may also become entangled, so avoid wearing jewelry close to the piercing site.
1. Anchor
Anchor and top jewelry consist of two pieces. The anchor portion is the piece that implants underneath the skin. The shape is rectangular, holding the jewelry in place as the tissue grows around it.
The top is the ball portion that screws into the anchor and is the visible part of the jewelry. When the wearer decides to change out their jewelry, the ball is easily unscrewed and replaced. This option is popular for those who like to change their jewelry frequently.
2. Diver
The second dermal piercing jewelry option is a diver. A diver consists of a single piece of jewelry, with the top affixed to a circular base. While divers are good options for those concerned with losing jewelry, it is important to remember that the tops are not interchangeable.
3. Barbells
Barbells were a standard option for jewelry when dermal piercings first became popular. However, they are now only typically used for surface piercings due to a higher rate of rejection and infection. Currently, the standard jewelry options for chest dermal piercings are an anchor and top or a diver.
Sizes for Chest Dermal Piercings
Chest dermal jewelry tends to run slightly larger (around 14 gauge or 8 mm) than facial dermal jewelry (usually between 16 to 18 gauge or 12 to 10 mm). That being said, the recommended sizes for dermal jewelry depend on the location and preference of the wearer.
The length of the anchor is about 6 millimeters long, while the tops can range between 3 millimeters to 9 millimeters.
Safe Materials To Use for Chest Dermal Jewelry
Choosing the right material option for body jewelry is essential. It must be biocompatible to decrease the risk of infection, allergic reaction, and rejection. It must also be durable enough to withstand daily activities. There are four material options available for chest dermal jewelry:
- Implant-grade titanium: Titanium is a good option for those with sensitive skin. While it poses less irritation risk, it can be pricey, especially when compared to surgical stainless steel.
- Surgical stainless steel: Stainless steel is a more cost-effective option. While it is considered hypoallergenic, this material may irritate those with skin sensitivities.
- Gold: Solid gold is too pliable to be used as body jewelry. Gold-plated jewelry can be more susceptible to causing infection or allergic reactions. Only 14-karat or 18-karat gold are suitable options when used as body jewelry.
- Niobium: Niobium is another biocompatible jewelry option for chest dermal piercings. Its appearance is similar to titanium, and it is unlikely to corrode. However, it is slightly heavier and can be more challenging to obtain.
How To Remove a Chest Dermal Piercing?
Dermal piercing removal is relatively painless. However, never attempt to remove a chest dermal piercing on your own. To ensure the safe removal of your dermal piercing, contact your piercing shop or schedule an appointment with your doctor.
- The area is first cleansed with an antiseptic solution before removal.
- Then, it is patted dry, and your piercer or doctor will remove the top from the anchor.
- The anchor becomes dislodged using gentle pressure by massaging the skin around it.
- After it loosens, the piercer or doctor creates a small incision using a sterile scalpel and removes it using thumb forceps.
Aftercare for Chest Dermal Piercings
Your actions after receiving a chest dermal piercing will heavily affect how well your piercing heals and whether your body quickly rejects it. You can increase your chances of a successful piercing by practicing the aftercare instructions your professional piercer gives you. Most professional piercing studios recommend the following:
- Wash your hands before touching the area around the piercing.
- Cleanse twice daily with a saline solution.
- Gently remove any crust that forms around the piercing.
- If possible, cover the piercing to avoid contact with water while showering.
- Always pat the area dry. Never rub it harshly.
- Take care when removing clothing to avoid snagging.
- Do not apply makeup or fragrance near the area.
- Wait to change the jewelry for at least three months or until the healing process is complete.
Read More
What Does Nose Ring Mean Sexually?
Pros and Cons of Nipple Piercings: Should You Get a Nipple Piercing?
Will My Belly Piercing Close Up Overnight?
Does Claire’s Do Nose Piercings? Price, Process, Preparation, Jewelry, Age, Pros and Cons
