Large gauge initial piercings and stretching.
(image Gauge chart down along beside text)
Polymorph Body Piercing offers a range of stretching services for established body piercings and can perform large gauge initial procedures for ear lobe, ear cartilage, lip (labret), tongue, nostril, septum, nipple, navel and male and female genital piercings.
(images A- )
Stretched piercings is an aesthetic that has had universal appeal throughout human history. The Jewellery available is as unique as the individuals that wear it, ranging from classic ornate designs, traditional and modern organic creations and futuristic adornments. Check out our range or contact us about custom designs and unique concepts.
The type of procedure used varies depending on the desired result, individual anatomy and location.
SELECT A LOCATION FOR MORE INFORMATION
When you purchase your jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place.
We are happy to offer advice and trouble shoot any issues and perform free check ups also.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Stretched ear lobes:
Stretched piercings have been found throughout different cultures across human history.
(Images b-)
Spacers, flesh tunnel's, barrels, gauges, stretchers and plugs are just some of the terms often used to describe expanded lobe piercings in today's popular culture. The oldest human discovered Otzi the iceman had stretched earlobes and in modern culture this simple aesthetic has an appeal to a wide range of people, beyond subculture and into the mainstream.
At Polymorph we can start you off anywhere from a conventional size right through to 2 gauge or 6mm initially. This is done using a needle and insertion taper and does not remove any tissue. A 6-8 week healing process can be expected. Conventional sized lobe piercings can be taken up to 12 gauge and will take around 2 weeks to settle. Most carved organic hanging designs start at this point
You can stretch an existing piercing once every few week's, a service we offer at no charge when you purchase your jewellery from our selection.
Stretching your lobe's opens up a range of jewellery options, a craft unto itself utilizing Organic material's such as glass, wood, stone, horn and bone, implant grade stainless steel and colored titanium eyelets and synthetic material's like medical grade silicon , ptfe (Teflon) and delrin. (Check out our selection here)
There are even skin tone hider plug's to help conceal your piercing in a not-so-accepting workplace!
Non-porous materials such as Borosilicate glass, 316LVM ASTM f138 compliant implant grade stainless steel / ASTM f136 compliant implant grade titanium are ideal to stretch with. We recommend to avoid stretching with acrylic, wood, femo and lower grades of metal to avoid the risk of infection, scarring and allergic reactions.
When you purchase jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place. We are happy to offer advice and check ups also.
(Images B-)
We stock a range of Oil's such as Emu Oil and suggest massaging your stretched lobes on a regular basis to promote healthy circulation and keep them looking thick and healthy.
Generally you can stretch up to around 6mm or 2 gauge and your lobes will shrink back to a conventional looking hole. Beyond this you are promoting additional tissue growth and changing the shape of your ear lobe. There are many factors that will affect this such as how the piercings were created, how long you have had them and the unique nature of your body.
Polymorph Offers advice and support to any one stretching or thinking of stretching their piercings, you can contact us or drop by for a chat whenever we are open.
Stretched Cartilage and Septum piercings
Everyone’s body is unique and some people may not be suited to these types of placement, it is important to take into account your anatomy and lifestyle, a consultation is a must if you are considering heavier work.
Cartilage piercings such as conch, flat's (helix) and nostril's can be started off anywhere from 1mm through to 11mm ( 14 gauge through to 7/16th of an inch (11mm). Piercings up to 8 gauge are established with a blade needle, a dermal punch ( biopsy punch) is used to insert larger placements with an initial healing time of 6-8 weeks and 6-9 months overall.
Cartilage piercings can also be stretched up from conventional sizes however this process can be a lot more difficult than with other parts of the body. A biopsy punch removes a section of tissue and this should be viewed as a permanent procedure.
Initially single flared borosilicate glass plugs are ideal as they are light weight and can allow for the swelling. Once healed a wide range of jewellery becomes available such as 316LVM ASTM f138 compliant implant grade stainless steel / ASTM f136 compliant implant grade titanium barbells and rings, organic materials and synthetic designs.
(images C- “plus label”)
When you purchase jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place. We are happy to offer free advice and check ups also.
Septum piercings between 16 and 8 gauge are pierced through the mucous membrane tissue between the external soft cartilage and the hard dividing cartilage of the septum itself. When stretched beyond these sizes a septum piercing can push up against the harder cartilage and over time make a semi-circular groove where it sits comfortably. Septum piercings between 6 and 0 gauge are established using a biopsy punch, a process which may remove some of the hard cartilage.
Septum piercings can be initially pierced with a 316LVM ASTM f138 compliant implant grade stainless steel / ASTM f136 compliant implant grade titanium retainer (u shape), circular barbell, captive bead ring, plug or eyelet. All these designs except the captive bead ring can be concealed. In larger sizes plug’s and eyelets are more suitable as they are lightweight with minimal movement. Once healed a septum piercing can tolerate heavier rings.
Septum piercings can be stretched once every few week’s when your body is ready.
(images z-)
When you purchase jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place. We are happy to offer free advice and check ups also.
Stretched Torso and Genital Piercings
NAVEL
(Image D) Initial navel piercings can be pierced anywhere from 14 gauge through to 4 gauge, beyond that a scalpel and stretch procedure can be used up to 0 gauge. As with a conventional 14 gauge navel piercing a 6-8 week initial and 6 to 9 month overall healing process can be expected. (Click here for small gauge navel piercing)
Initial jewellery options are a 316LVM ASTM f138 compliant implant grade stainless steel / ASTM f136 compliant implant grade titanium curved barbell or a borosilicate glass navel curve.
A conventional Navel piercing can be stretched once every few week’s when your body is ready however often they are not deep enough to go to the larger sizes. It is important to take your time stretching and beware of migration.
When you purchase jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place. We are happy to offer free advice and check ups also.
NIPPLE
(Image E) Nipple piercings can be pierced anywhere from 12g through to 6g, beyond that and a scalpel and stretch procedure can establish your piercing between 2 gauge and 0 gauge. A 6 to 8 week initial and 3 to 4 month overall healing process can be expected. (Click here for small gauge nipple piercing)
Initial jewellery options are 316LVM ASTM f138 compliant implant grade stainless steel / ASTM f136 compliant implant grade titanium barbells. Once the piercings are healed rings would be a suitable alternative. Solid and hollow plugs of different material’s can also be worn in larger sizes.
Nipple piercings can be stretched once every few week’s when your body is ready.
When you purchase jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place. We are happy to offer free advice and check ups also.
Genital
There are many different genital placements for both men and women, most of which can be stretched. Larger pieces of jewellery can offer more comfort and stimulation and has an aesthetic appeal to many.
Initial placements can be started at a range of sizes, contact us directly to discuss your options or drop by for a free consultation and to view our range of jewellery.
---------------------------------------------------
Stretched Oral Piercings
Everyone’s body is unique and some people may not be suited to these types of placement, it is important to take into account your anatomy and lifestyle, a consultation is a must if you are considering heavier work.
Tongue
(image x- photo of Andy with skateboard hanging from tongue)
Tongue piercings can be pierced between 12 and 6 gauge initially. A 6 to 8 week overall healing process can be expected. After 4 weeks it is important to have your jewellery downsized to a more flush fitting piece for comfort and to protect your teeth and gums
Internally threaded 316LVM ASTM f138 compliant implant grade stainless steel / ASTM f136 compliant implant grade titanium barbells are the most secure and comfortable option for an initial placement. Once healed Bowerbird Design custom jewelers make fitted acrylic tongue barbells with domed ends which are a great option in the larger sizes
Tongue piercings can be stretched once every few weeks when your body is ready.
When you purchase jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place. We are happy to offer free advice and check ups also.
LIP
(Image F-)
Central, side and top Lip piercings can be pierced anywhere from 12 gauge through to 4 gauge, beyond that and a scalpel and stretch procedure can establish your piercing between 2 gauge and 0 gauge. A 6 to 8 week initial and 3 to 4 month overall healing process can be expected. (Click here for small gauge lip piercing)
Initially a long single flared glass plug would be suitable as they are light weight and can allow for the initial swelling. Once healed a t-back labret piece is the most comfortable option, available in glass, stone, wood and steel. Internally threaded 316LVM ASTM f138 compliant implant grade stainless steel / ASTM f136 compliant implant grade titanium labret barbells can also be worn up to 6 gauge.
Lip piercings can be stretched once every few weeks when your body is ready. A well placed conventionally sized piercing can be stretched up to all the same sizes as a large gauge initial piercing or scalpelled procedure.
When you purchase jewellery from Polymorph we do not charge to insert or stretch it into place. We are happy to offer free advice and check ups also.
----------------------------------------------
Directional stretching and Lobe scalpelling
Directional Stretching is a way to move an existing piercing towards healthy tissue.
If your ear lobes are becoming thin but you want to continue stretching this can be a way to enlarge your lobes without putting excessive pressure on weak points.
Directional stretching can also be used to adjust how a piercing is sitting. Gun pierced lobes are often lower down on the lobe or closer to the face than is aesthetically ideal for larger stretched lobes. If you have started the process but are not happy with how your jewellery fits your lobe this can be a way to move the placement into a more centered position.
A consultation is necessary as each situation is unique. If you stretch your lobes from a well placed initial piercing, stretching when your body is ready and using good quality jewellery this sort of procedure is generally not necessary.
Large Ear lobe placement’s can be cut and stretched up to 12.7mm (1/2”) initially. Smaller sizes are established using a pierce and stretch procedure. Most healing will take 6-8 weeks to go through the initial stages however a larger size initially can expect a slightly longer healing time.
In most cases starting off smaller can be a much more rewarding process as you can experience working with your body and enjoy the gradual expansion and satisfaction of each stretch. Taking your time with stretching is important as the way you go about achieving your goal will effect how satisfied you are with the end result.
Troubleshooting Stretched Lobes
If you are thinking about stretching your lobes or are experiencing any issues please drop past polymorph or give us a call as we can offer advice on the best way to work with your body to get the result you want.
If you are experiencing anything unusual drop by for a checkout, most issues are easily solved when dealt with early.
Have fun!
Jewellery falling out is often a sign that you are ready to stretch! Your body will naturally relax around your jewellery over time and you may find that the next size up will just slip in without any discomfort.
If you are happy where you are then a good trick is to sleep with your jewellery out and then reinsert it in the morning. Your ear will shrink a little overnight and hold your jewellery more securely throughout the day.
Kaos silicon eyelets are a good secure option for going to concerts where people might bump into you, as they are squishy they are also really comfortable (great if you wear a motorbike helmet).
Don’t wear your jewellery in the ocean as the waves claim plenty o jewels for the ocean bed.
Losing o-rings is bound to happen at some point (Murphy’s law) we can prevent this by placing two o-rings on or squeezing on some extra tight ones. If you have lost yours drop past polymorph and we will fit some tighter ones for you and give you a bag of spares, no charge!
Funky smells are part of being human right? Like your piercer always said “don’t forget to wash inside your ears”. Like any surface of the body the skin around your lobes is constantly regenerating. If you leave your jewellery in full time you will get a build up of dead skin cells which produce a… unique scent (It’s like wearing the same pair of undies for a week). The solution? Once they are well healed you can pop them out before your shower and give them a quick massage under the flow of water, remember to dry your lobes thoroughly before popping your jewellery back in.
Organic jewellery is another good option as it will absorb the oils produced by the body and generally will not produce an odor.
Massaging your ears is a great way to promote tissue growth and good circulation, avoid dry skin and keep your ears soft and supple, very important if you plan on stretching to the larger sizes and a great habit to get into after a shower.
We suggest using emu oil or jojoba oil (a great Vegan option). We stock a small range of oils and offer a complimentary lesson in the best way to work that tissue.
Concealing stretched lobes can be necessary at times and there are a range of jewellery options that look like conventional piercings to the casual glance. If you need that au naturel look than Kaos silicone hider plugs come in different flesh tone’s and are easy to squish in and out ( because their squishy). (insert “concealing pic”)
Shrinking your lobes simply involves leaving your jewellery out. Every lobe responds differently depending on how you stretched it, how long you’ve been at size, what size you were at and your own unique body. There is no magic size, no point of no return as it is different for everyone. That said 0 gauge or 8mm is a good point to decide if you are willing to live with not-quite-conventional lobes. Below this size and lobes will generally shrink back down to a relatively conventional sized piercing.
If you have left your jewellery out for some time and your lobes are not shrinking further there are ways to encourage the process such as massaging the tissue.
There are other reconstructive options available so drop by for a consult and we can help you with your options.
Thinning, Inflammation and Tearing of the lobe can occur if you stretch too fast and use jewellery that your body reacts to. Most tapers that you can buy are NOT designed for stretching and jump multiple sizes over a short distance; this is a recipe for disaster. Stretching quickly will not give your body time to generate new tissue and you may find that while you reached your goal size you are not happy with the result that you must then live with. Use high quality jewellery and avoid stretching with acrylic, wood, femo and lower grades of metal.
If your lobes are flaring up soak em with a ¼ teaspoon of sea salt (non- iodized) to 250ml (a cup) of warm water. 5 min submerged then rinse off with some fresh water, repeat twice a day and drop by Polymorph for a check up.
Consult your piercer! We are here to help you and give you advice unique to your situation. Switching out to more appropriate jewellery or downsizing may be options but different needs call for different measures.
We also offer stretching as a free service when you get your jewellery from us. If you bring in your own jewellery we are happy to use it if it has not been worn by anyone else and is an appropriate material and design, we generally charge between $5 to $15 and it gives you a chance to have your stretch done in a safe way.
Blowouts are not a common occurrence. They can happen after a stretch when the pressure of your jewellery pushes out a lip of scar tissue. It’s kind of like turning your ear inside out. Don’t panic! Downsize your jewellery and massage your lobes with jojoba or emu oil applying firm and sustained pressure on the lip to help disperse the blowout. Soak your ears with non-iodized sea salt solution ( ¼ tsp to 250ml warm water) and come up to Polymorph so we can see what’s happening and give you advice specific to your situation. It is important to take action quickly before the blowout can establish itself.
If you have a well established blowout there are many ways to help reduce it. If these measures do not help we can remove the blow out. A consultation is a must as every situation is unique.
Gauge chart
(image gauge chart and conversions)
