Labretlävistys

Labretlävistys, commonly known as a labret piercing, is a type of body piercing that passes through the lip or the area around the mouth. The jewelry typically sits either inside the mouth or outside, depending on the placement. The most common placement for a labret piercing is directly below the center of the lower lip, hence the name "labret" which refers to the anatomical structure.

Variations of the labret piercing exist, including the vertical labret, where the jewelry passes through the center of the lower lip vertically, with one end emerging from the top of the lip and the other from underneath. Other placements include the Monroe piercing, which mimics Marilyn Monroe's beauty mark on the upper left side of the lip, and the Madonna piercing, located on the upper right side. The Medusa piercing, also known as the philtrum piercing, is situated in the philtrum, the vertical groove between the nose and the upper lip.

The piercing process involves a sterile needle to create a channel for jewelry. Aftercare is crucial for proper healing and involves regular cleaning with a saline solution to prevent infection. Healing times can vary but typically range from several weeks to a few months. Potential complications include swelling, bleeding, infection, and in some cases, tooth or gum damage if jewelry rubs against them. Jewelry materials often include surgical stainless steel, titanium, or niobium.