Important Disclaimer: These piercings are considered more advanced and riskier than standard vertical tongue piercings. They have a higher potential for complications, including nerve damage, speech impediment, tooth damage, and rejection. It is crucial to find a VERY experienced and reputable piercer who is willing to discuss the risks thoroughly before proceeding. Many reputable piercers will not perform these piercings due to the risks involved.
1. Understanding the Piercings
* Horizontal Tongue Piercing (Snake Eyes): This piercing goes horizontally through the tip of the tongue, connecting both sides. It appears as two separate balls at the tip of the tongue.
* Scoop Tongue Piercing: This piercing goes through the surface of the tongue, usually in the center and back area, creating a "scoop" effect. It's a surface piercing and doesn't go all the way through the underside of the tongue.
2. The Piercing Procedure
* Consultation: The piercer should thoroughly examine your tongue's anatomy to assess suitability. They'll look for the location of veins and nerves, and consider the size and shape of your tongue. They should also discuss the potential risks and aftercare thoroughly. If they don't do this, find another piercer.
* Marking: The piercer will mark the entry and exit points on the tongue with a surgical marker. Placement is critical to minimize risks.
* Clamping (Usually for Scoop): For scoop piercings, the piercer may use sterile forceps or clamps to stabilize the tongue. This isn't always necessary for horizontal piercings, but it depends on the piercer's preference and the individual's anatomy.
* Piercing: A hollow needle is used to create the piercing channel. The gauge of the needle will match the jewelry being used. The piercer will need to be very precise to avoid hitting nerves or blood vessels.
* Jewelry Insertion: The jewelry is immediately inserted into the new piercing.
3. Jewelry Types
* Horizontal Tongue Piercing:
* Curved Barbells: This is almost always used initially. The curve helps to accommodate the natural shape of the tongue and reduce pressure. The length of the barbell is crucial to allow for swelling.
* Material: Implant-grade titanium or surgical steel are the most common and safest materials.
* Scoop Tongue Piercing:
* Curved Barbells: Almost exclusively used. The curve allows the jewelry to sit comfortably on the surface of the tongue.
* Surface Barbells: Although rare, some piercers may use surface barbells designed to minimize rejection.
* Material: Implant-grade titanium is highly recommended due to its biocompatibility and reduced risk of allergic reactions. Surgical steel is another option but may contain nickel, which can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Jewelry Considerations (For Both):
* Initial Jewelry Size: The initial jewelry will be longer/larger to accommodate swelling. It's crucial *not* to downsize too early, as this can lead to embedding. After the swelling subsides (typically a few weeks to a month), you'll need to return to the piercer to have the jewelry downsized to a shorter/more appropriately sized barbell.
* Material Quality: Always insist on implant-grade materials. Cheap jewelry can cause allergic reactions, infections, and other complications.
* Ball Size: Larger balls can sometimes help keep the jewelry in place and prevent it from sinking into the tongue.
4. Healing and Aftercare
* Swelling: Expect significant swelling for the first few days. Sucking on ice chips, drinking cold water, and taking anti-inflammatory medications (as directed by a doctor) can help.
* Diet: Stick to a soft food diet for the first few weeks. Avoid spicy, acidic, hot, or crunchy foods that can irritate the piercing.
* Oral Hygiene: Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash (recommended by your piercer) after every meal and before bed. Gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
* Avoid Playing with the Jewelry: Resist the urge to touch, twist, or play with the jewelry. This can introduce bacteria and irritate the piercing.
* Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can interfere with the healing process.
* Regular Check-ups: Follow up with your piercer for check-ups to ensure the piercing is healing properly.
5. Risks and Complications
* Nerve Damage: This is a significant risk, especially with horizontal tongue piercings. Nerve damage can lead to numbness, tingling, or loss of taste.
* Speech Impediment: The jewelry can interfere with speech, especially initially.
* Tooth and Gum Damage: The jewelry can rub against the teeth and gums, causing enamel erosion, gum recession, and tooth chipping.
* Infection: Poor hygiene or improper aftercare can lead to infection.
* Rejection: The body may reject the piercing, causing it to migrate or be pushed out. This is more common with surface piercings like the scoop.
* Embedding: The jewelry can become embedded in the tongue if it's too tight or if swelling is excessive.
* Scarring: All piercings leave some degree of scarring, but improper healing can lead to more noticeable scars.
* Blood Vessel Damage: There are a lot of blood vessels in the tongue. Hitting these can cause significant bleeding.
Why Many Piercers Don't Do These Piercings
The risks associated with horizontal and scoop tongue piercings are significantly higher than with standard vertical tongue piercings. Reputable piercers prioritize the safety and well-being of their clients. The potential for nerve damage, tooth damage, and rejection is a major concern. Many piercers simply don't feel comfortable performing these piercings due to the increased risk of complications. It is considered an unethical practice by some piercers, and these piercings are best avoided entirely.
In Summary:
Horizontal and scoop tongue piercings are advanced piercings with considerable risks. Thorough research, a highly experienced piercer, and diligent aftercare are essential. However, even with the best care, complications can still occur. Carefully weigh the risks and benefits before making a decision. It is highly recommended to avoid these piercings, as the risks greatly outweigh the potential aesthetic benefits.