Ear piercing types › Flat
Flat Piercing
Try a flat piercing on the planner →
What is a flat piercing?
A flat piercing goes through the flat area of cartilage inside the upper rim, between the helix and the inner folds. Because the surface is wide and flat, it's the best spot on the ear for a statement stud — a cluster, flower or larger gem that would look too big elsewhere.
Does a flat piercing hurt?
Usually 4–5 out of 10, similar to a helix. The cartilage is firm, so expect a sharp pressure that fades into an ache.
Flat piercing healing time and aftercare
Roughly 6–12 months. Flats are fairly protected from snagging, but pressure from sleeping and headphones can still cause irritation. Avoid changing the jewelry early and let your piercer downsize the post when swelling settles.
Flat piercing jewelry and size
A flat-back labret stud in 16g (1.2 mm). This is the place for bigger decorative tops — florals, crescent moons, gem clusters. Hoops don't really work in this position.
Typical starting gauge: 16g (1.2 mm). Common jewelry: Flat-back labret with decorative top.
Who can get a flat piercing?
Most ears have a usable flat area. Smaller ears may only fit a modest top.
What to pair it with
Try a flat with a helix and forward helix for a "constellation" look, or with a conch stud for a cluster of decorative pieces across the middle of the ear. You can test combinations in the ear piercing planner and save the result to show your piercer.
Flat piercing FAQ
What is a flat piercing?
A piercing through the flat cartilage area inside the upper rim of the ear, between the helix and the inner folds.
Can you put a hoop in a flat piercing?
Not really — the position is too far from the edge. Flat piercings are almost always worn with flat-back studs.
How long does a flat piercing take to heal?
About 6–12 months, like most cartilage piercings.
Pain is a commonly reported range and varies by person. Healing times follow general guidance from the Association of Professional Piercers. This page is general information, not medical advice — always talk to a professional piercer.
Other ear piercings
Helix Forward Helix Rook Daith Tragus Conch Snug Anti-Tragus Auricle Lobe Upper Lobe