10/03/2026
Gnarly pictures ahead — you’ve been warned.
This client came to me for a second opinion after getting a “surface bar” at another studio. Unfortunately, I had to give them some difficult news: the jewelry needed to be removed, and there was little chance of the piercing recovering properly.
I’m not naming the studio because this isn’t an isolated problem. I see inappropriate initial jewelry used for surface bars far too often.
A curved barbell is not appropriate jewelry for a surface bar. Surface piercings require jewelry that is specifically designed to accommodate the movement and anatomy of the area. Using the wrong jewelry can put unnecessary pressure on the tissue, contribute to migration/rejection, and significantly reduce the chances of a successful heal.
In this case, the client had actually done their research and knew that curved barbells weren’t considered appropriate for this type of piercing. They ultimately went through with it after being pressured by the piercer and friends who were there with them.
That part really bothers me.
As a client, you are allowed to ask questions. In fact, I encourage you to ask why.
Why was that jewelry chosen?
Why is the piercing being marked there?
Why is that skin preparation being used?
Why is this placement appropriate for your anatomy?
What should you expect during healing?
A professional piercer should be able to explain their choices clearly and confidently. You should never feel pressured into proceeding when something doesn’t feel right.
And if a piercer can’t explain why they’re recommending something, that’s a perfectly good reason to pause, leave, and get a second opinion.
I’ve unfortunately gained far too many clients who came to me after being given inappropriate jewelry or poor advice elsewhere. I’m always happy to help, but I’d much rather see people get the right information before they end up needing help fixing a preventable problem.
So please: do your research, ask questions, listen to your gut, and remember that you are allowed to say no.
And if someone tries to put a curved barbell in your “surface bar,” call them a hack and send them to me. I’ll gladly take aggro for you.
