Piercing: A Monroe piercing will generally be performed with a hollow piercing needle of either 14 or 16 gauge. Usually a surgical pen will be used to mark the placement, followed by a pair of Pennington forceps, and possibly a needle receiving tube or cork. Before the piercing is performed, the mouth will be cleansed inside and out using mouthwash and liquid disinfectant.
Aftercare: Like other oral piercings, the aftercare for a Monroe will likely involve both cleanses and/or sea salt soaks, and internal cleansing with saline or special mouthwash. Avoidance of alcohol, smoking, lipstick use, and other things that may aggravate the new piercing are also encouraged.
Jewelry: Most Monroe piercings will be worn with stud jewelry, but circular pieces are also possible. Many choose stud jewelry with a flat backing to reduce the risk of gum and tooth damage.
Style Variations: The Monroe can be positioned in a variety of places above the top lip on either side of the mouth, but piercings above the center of the lip (in the bow) are called a Medusa, rather than a Monroe. Monroe piercings on both sides are called angel bites, and when paired with a set of snake bites (lower lip piercings on both sides) are called “canine bites.”
