Upper Lobe Piercing: Everything You Need to Know Before Getting One

What Is an Upper Lobe Piercing?

An upper lobe piercing is a type of ear piercing placed slightly above the traditional lobe piercing, still within the soft, fleshy part of the ear. It doesn’t go into the cartilage, which makes it different from piercings like the helix or tragus. This area of the ear is ideal if you’re looking to add extra earrings without venturing into more advanced or structured piercings. People often get an upper lobe piercing as a second or third hole to complement their main lobe piercing, allowing for more creativity in how they wear their jewelry.

This piercing is popular because it blends simplicity with style. It gives you room to experiment with different looks, whether you prefer small, elegant studs or dainty hoops stacked in a neat line. Since the upper lobe sits just above the traditional lobe, it creates a natural flow for multi-earring arrangements. It's a great way to enhance your ear styling while keeping things subtle and easy to manage, especially if you're building an ear stack for the first time.

Upper Lobe Piercing Healing Time

The healing time for an upper lobe piercing is typically around 6 to 8 weeks, though it can vary slightly from person to person. Since the upper lobe is still part of the soft tissue and not cartilage, it generally heals faster and more smoothly than piercings in the upper ear. If you take good care of it and follow proper aftercare instructions, you may find that your piercing feels comfortable and looks fully healed in just a couple of months.

However, it's important to remember that even if it looks healed on the outside, the inside may still be delicate. Avoid changing the jewelry too soon or touching the piercing with unwashed hands, as this can slow down the healing process or cause irritation. Everyone’s body is different, so if your piercing is still sore, red, or crusty after 8 weeks, it might just need more time. Being gentle and consistent with aftercare will give your piercing the best chance to heal fully and beautifully.

Is Upper Lobe Piercing Painful?

An upper lobe piercing is generally considered one of the least painful ear piercings. On a scale from 1 to 10, most people rate the pain around 2 or 3. Since it goes through the soft, fleshy part of the ear rather than the tougher cartilage, the sensation is usually quick and sharp, like a brief pinch or sting. The discomfort only lasts a second or two while the needle goes through, and any soreness afterward is typically mild.

Many people say it feels similar to a standard lobe piercing, so if you have had that done before, you will likely know what to expect. After the initial piercing, you might notice some slight throbbing or warmth in the area, but this usually fades within a few hours. Compared to cartilage or more complex piercings, the upper lobe is a great choice if you are concerned about pain but still want to add some style to your ear.

How Much Do Upper Lobe Piercings Cost?

The cost of an upper lobe piercing can vary depending on where you go, but on average, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50. This price usually includes the piercing service and a basic starter earring. Some high-end studios may charge more, especially if they use premium jewelry or have highly experienced piercers. On the other hand, budget-friendly places might offer lower prices, but it's important to make sure they follow proper hygiene and safety standards.

Keep in mind that the total cost can go up if you choose higher-quality materials like titanium or stainless steel instead of standard surgical steel. Some studios also charge separately for the jewelry, so it’s a good idea to ask what’s included before booking. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s worth paying a little extra for a clean, professional environment to avoid any issues down the line.

2 Upper Lobe Piercings

Getting 2 upper lobe piercings means having two holes placed vertically or slightly staggered along the upper part of your earlobe, just above the standard lobe piercing. This is a popular choice for people who want a balanced, layered look without committing to cartilage piercings. You can wear multiple earrings in a stylish arrangement, often using small studs, dainty hoops, or minimalist chains for a stacked effect.

This setup gives you a lot of styling flexibility and works well whether you prefer a simple, elegant vibe or a more edgy, bold look. Many people combine 2 upper lobe piercings with their first lobe piercing to create a neat row of three earrings on one ear. It’s a creative way to express your style while still keeping things subtle and easy to maintain.

Lower and Upper Lobe Piercing Comparison

This comparison gives you a quick view of what to expect from each type, helping you decide which one suits your style or piercing goals better.

Upper Lobe Piercing Jewelry

Upper lobe piercings give you plenty of options to get creative with your jewelry. Since this area is soft and easy to work with, you can switch between different styles depending on your mood or look. Here are some popular jewelry types you can wear in an upper lobe piercing:

1. Studs
Studs are the most popular choice for upper lobe piercings, especially for fresh piercings or a clean, minimalist look. They sit flat against the ear and come in a variety of styles, from simple metal balls to sparkling gemstones or small decorative shapes. Studs are great for layering with other earrings and work well for both casual and dressy outfits.

2. Hoops
Hoops add a classic or edgy touch depending on their size and design. In an upper lobe piercing, smaller hoops create a subtle curve that pairs well with other earrings below or above. You can go for plain metal hoops for a sleek look or choose ones with charms or stones for extra detail. They’re easy to wear and make your ear stack more dynamic.

3. Huggies
Huggies are tiny hoops that closely hug the earlobe, offering a snug and modern style. They're especially flattering in upper lobe piercings because of their compact shape and low-profile design. Huggies often have a hinge for easy wear and are a great choice if you want something simple, secure, and stylish for everyday use.

4. Flat Backs
Flat-back earrings are designed for comfort, especially if you sleep with your earrings in. The flat disc on the back sits flush against your ear, reducing irritation and snagging. These are ideal for upper lobe piercings if you want a secure fit and a clean appearance, often used in professional or minimalist looks.

5. Chains
Chain earrings add a delicate, decorative element to upper lobe piercings. Some connect two piercings with a fine chain, while others dangle gently from one. They bring movement and softness to your ear setup and can be a beautiful way to add texture and interest without going over the top.

6. Drop Earrings
Drop earrings hang just below the piercing, giving your upper lobe a more dramatic or elegant touch. They come in all kinds of designs, from sleek and simple to intricate and bold, making them perfect for adding a bit of flair. Drop earrings are great for dressing up your look or standing out in a stacked combination.

7. Cuffs
Ear cuffs aren’t placed through the piercing but wrap around the edge of the ear to complement your upper lobe jewelry. They can enhance the overall look without the commitment of another piercing. Cuffs come in a range of styles and are perfect for creating that curated, stacked-ear effect.

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