INSTAGRAM / @velvetelvispiercing / Lobe orbital by Brenda @nein_tails
The orbital piercing connects two holes with a single ring. Pain, healing, differences from other piercings, ideal placement, and aftercare: here's what you need to know before getting one.
An orbital piercing is a combination of two ear piercings connected by a single piece of jewelry, typically a ring or a horseshoe. It can be placed in many areas of the ear, but it is most commonly located in the earlobe or cartilage. It is characterized by its ability to personalize your ear piercing look. Since it consists of two piercings, there are many ways to make the look individual.
INSTAGRAM / @pearlcollective_ / Lobe Orbital
Much confusion surrounds these two types of piercings. A conch piercing is often adorned with a large hoop that encircles the edge of the ear, creating an aesthetic similar to that of the orbital piercing. However, they are not identical. A conch piercing only appears in the inner cartilage and consists of a single hole/passage, while an orbital piercing can appear in several suitable places on the ear and consists of two piercings.
INSTAGRAM / @thepiercingurge / Low & Mid helix orbital by @emilyvonspoopypiercing
Pain varies from person to person. Many factors can influence the pain experienced during a piercing, including the piercing location, the type of jewelry used, and the piercer's technique. However, most people have no problem getting two piercings in one session. If you choose the lobe area, it will certainly be less painful than in the cartilage, but one does not choose their piercing area based on pain ;).
Healing time depends on where you get pierced. If your orbital piercing is in the cartilage, you can expect to spend about 6 to 9 months healing. If the piercing is placed in the lobe, it will take at least 6 weeks to heal.
Aftercare for an orbital piercing is the same as for any other piercing. It is important to clean the piercing 2 to 3 times a day with a saline solution throughout the healing period.
The answer to this question is yes and no. If you have multiple lobe piercings, you should have no problem fitting them with a hoop, provided the piercings are far enough apart and the ring is the right size. For more precision, you can opt for a horseshoe with the balls placed at the back of your lobe, which will give the same aesthetic result at the front.
Once the piercing is fully healed, you can change jewelry and experiment with different designs. Most people opt for a hoop, a horseshoe, or captive bead rings (CBR) – there are many options, and all are equally flattering.
Like any piercing, the orbital piercing carries certain risks, including infection, scarring, and pain. However, with proper care and a qualified piercer, these risks can be minimized.
What aftercare should I provide for my piercing?
Whether you are a piercing novice or a veteran, the orbital piercing is an excellent option to add variety and, most importantly, great originality to your piercing collection. With its versatility and unique look, it is sure to attract positive attention.
The orbital piercing remains a rare piercing that requires great precision from your piercer, so choose them well ;)
