Cyber bites piercing is a type of lip piercing that involves two piercings, one above the upper lip and one below the lower lip. This creates a balanced, symmetrical look. It’s popular for those who want to make a bold statement.
This guide will walk you through the basics of cyber bites piercings to help you understand what to expect.
What Is a Cyber Bites Piercing?
A cyber bites piercing combines two piercings—one on the philtrum (the area above the upper lip) and one below the lower lip, centered on the mouth. It creates a vertical symmetry, drawing attention to the center of the face. This piercing is ideal for people who want a distinctive look, as it is both subtle and striking.
Both piercings are usually done with a labret stud, though you can opt for different types of jewelry once it heals. This piercing is not as common as a standard lip or labret piercing, but it is growing in popularity due to its unique aesthetic.
The entire process of cyber bites piercing takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your piercer’s speed and your pain tolerance.
How Bad Do Cyber Bites Hurt? Cyber Bites are Moderately Painful
Pain levels vary from person to person, but in general, cyber bites piercings are considered moderately painful. Since both piercings are done in sensitive areas, you may feel some discomfort during and after the procedure. The pain is often described as a sharp pinch followed by a throbbing sensation.
The healing process can also cause some tenderness around the piercings, especially when eating, drinking, or speaking. However, most people find that the pain is manageable and subsides within a few days.
How Long Do Cyber Bites Take To Heal?
The healing time for cyber bites piercing is usually between 6 to 12 weeks, but this can vary. The upper lip piercing (medusa) tends to heal faster than the lower lip piercing. To promote faster healing and avoid complications, it’s important to follow proper aftercare:
- Clean the Piercing Regularly: Use a saline solution or a piercing aftercare spray to clean both the inside and outside of the piercings. This helps to prevent infection and reduces swelling.
- Avoid Touching: Do not touch or twist the jewelry, especially with unwashed hands. This can introduce bacteria to the piercing and cause infection.
- Watch What You Eat: For the first few weeks, avoid spicy, acidic, or sticky foods that can irritate the piercing. Also, be cautious when chewing to avoid accidentally biting the jewelry.
- Rinse Your Mouth: After eating, drink water or use a saltwater rinse to clean the inside of your mouth. This helps to keep food particles away from the piercing site.
- Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can slow the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Following these aftercare steps will help ensure that your piercing heals properly and stays healthy.
Risks and Complications
Like all body piercings, cyber bites piercings come with some risks. The most common issues are infection, swelling, and jewelry rejection. To minimize these risks, always follow aftercare instructions closely and choose a professional, experienced piercer.
If you notice excessive swelling, redness, or discharge, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional right away. These could be signs of an infection.
Additionally, because the piercing is near the mouth, there is a higher chance of accidentally biting the jewelry, which can damage your teeth or gums. Using smaller, well-fitted jewelry can help minimize this risk once the piercing has healed.
Choosing the Right Jewelry
Most people start with labret studs made of materials like titanium or surgical steel. These metals are less likely to cause allergic reactions and are safe for healing piercings. Once your piercing has fully healed, you can experiment with different types of jewelry, such as hoops or decorative studs.
When selecting jewelry, make sure it’s the right size. Jewelry that’s too small can cause irritation, while pieces that are too large can get in the way when eating or talking.
How Much Does A Cyber Bite Cost?
The cost of a cyber bite piercing varies depending on several factors, including the studio’s location, the piercer’s experience, and the type of jewelry used. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 for the procedure. Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:
1. Piercing Fee
- Standard Price: Most professional piercers charge between $30 to $70 per piercing. Since a cyber bite involves two piercings (one above and one below the lip), the total cost is usually doubled or discounted slightly for the combination.
- Discounts for Double Piercings: Some studios offer package deals for double piercings, which may bring the cost closer to $50 to $80 for the entire cyber bite piercing.
2. Jewelry Cost
- The type of jewelry you choose also affects the total cost. Basic jewelry like titanium or surgical steel labret studs typically costs around $10 to $20 each.
- If you opt for more premium jewelry, such as gold or custom-designed pieces, the price can increase to $40 or more per piece.
3. Additional Costs
- Aftercare Products: Some studios provide aftercare products, like saline solutions, as part of the service. If not, these products cost around $5 to $10.
- Tipping: It’s common to tip the piercer if you’re satisfied with the service. A tip of 15% to 20% of the total cost is typical in many places.
Summary of Costs
- Total Procedure: $50–$100
- Jewelry: $10–$40 (per piece)
- Aftercare Products: $5–$10
- Optional Tip: 15%–20%
In some high-end studios or large metropolitan areas, the cost may be higher due to the piercer’s reputation or the studio’s upscale setting. Always prioritize cleanliness, professionalism, and experience when choosing a piercer over cost.
Final Thoughts
Cyber bites piercings are a bold, symmetrical option for those looking to add something unique to their look. While the procedure is relatively simple, it’s important to choose an experienced piercer and follow proper aftercare to ensure a smooth healing process.
Be aware of the risks, but know that with proper care, these piercings can heal beautifully and offer a standout aesthetic. If you’re ready to make a statement with your piercings, cyber bites may be the perfect choice for you.
