FLAT PIERCING GUIDE
what is a flat piercing?
The flat piercing sits on the upper inner cartilage of the ear — the smooth, flat area beside the helix. This placement offers a larger surface to work with, allowing for creative positioning and statement styling.
Because the area lacks an outer rim, flat piercings can only be worn with flat-back studs rather than hoops. The result is a sleek, minimal silhouette that lends itself beautifully to diamonds, clusters, and sculptural designs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of flat piercings, cost, process, healing, aftercare, and how to style them with confidence.
Single flat
The single flat is the most classic version of this piercing — a single stud placed on the smooth cartilage of the ear. Subtle yet striking, it provides an elevated focal point within your stack and can be placed almost anywhere across the flat plane of the ear.
This placement allows for creative expression — whether you prefer a minimalist gold accent or a bold gemstone design, it’s entirely customisable to your style and anatomy.
Love Bite
For those who prefer something a little more distinctive, the Love Bite is one of our favourites. This look features two flat piercings placed closely together in a straight line, creating a refined yet edgy aesthetic.
Because every ear shape is unique, your piercer will guide you on spacing and alignment to ensure the perfect result. The Love Bite is ideal for those who enjoy symmetry with a touch of personality.
flat piercing procedure
Your appointment begins with the sterilisation of the ear using a medical-grade alcohol solution. Your piercer will then carefully mark the intended placement — considering your age, anatomy, and future styling goals — and confirm the markings with you before proceeding.
For multiple piercings, symmetry and spacing are measured with precision to ensure balance and comfort.
At Covetear, we pierce exclusively with single-use, sterile 18-gauge piercing needles — never piercing guns or pressure devices. Needles minimise tissue trauma, reduce the risk of infection, and allow for far greater control and accuracy.
Once the piercing is complete, your selected jewellery will be installed. Our piercing jewellery is designed with both form and function in mind — engineered for safety, comfort, and lasting style throughout the healing process and beyond.
Pain and healing time
Pain Guide: 6/10
A flat piercing feels similar to a helix piercing in terms of discomfort — a short, sharp sensation that quickly subsides. The cartilage here is of similar density, so healing requires time and gentle care.
Healing time: approximately 6–12 months
Here’s what to expect during your healing journey:
First 72 hours: Localised swelling, redness, warmth, and minor bleeding are normal.
Weeks 2–4: You may experience slight pulsing or notice a clear fluid that dries into a crust — avoid touching or twisting your jewellery.
Weeks 5–12: Your piercing may feel comfortable, but internal healing continues. Avoid friction and discuss downsizing your post around this stage to support the healing process.
3 months and beyond: Even when it feels fully healed, the tissue beneath the surface may still be fragile. Changing jewellery prematurely can cause irritation, infection, or scarring. Wait at least 9 months before replacing your initial jewellery.
If your jewellery is removed and not replaced, the piercing may begin to close within hours — always keep jewellery in place to preserve your piercing.
Aftercare
Flat piercings are relatively easy to care for, and consistent aftercare ensures optimal healing. At Covetear, we offer unlimited, complimentary Aftercare Appointments to support you through every stage of your healing journey.
Follow these essential steps:
- Do not touch your piercing unnecessarily. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling the area.
- Clean with NeilMed™ Piercing Aftercare Spray. Hold 3–6cm away and spray both front and back of the piercing. Use a clean cotton tip to gently remove any discharge or residue.
- Pat the area completely dry. Avoid tissues, cotton buds, or other fibrous materials that can irritate the skin or introduce bacteria.
- Clean twice daily for 6–8 weeks, then once daily as the piercing continues to heal. Avoid sleeping directly on a fresh piercing to minimise swelling or irritation.
Pro tip: When washing your hair, if possible, use a removable shower head to gently rinse away any shampoo or conditioner before applying your aftercare spray. Product residue can increase the risk of irritation and infection.
is your piercing infected?
Here's what to do - The serious stuff
Successful healing depends on consistent aftercare and avoiding unnecessary contact with your piercing. If you experience symptoms beyond normal post-piercing healing — such as sudden or excessive swelling, bright yellow or green discharge, heavy bleeding, red streaks, fever, dizziness, or nausea — contact us immediately for professional advice.
While our piercers are always available for aftercare support seven days a week, we are not medical practitioners, and we recommend seeing a doctor if a bacterial infection is suspected.
TIME TO STYLE!
The flat piercing is the perfect canvas for creativity. From delicate solitaires to bold motifs, the possibilities are endless.
For something refined, we love the 14K Solid Gold Diamond Petit Solitaire Earring. For a playful, feminine touch, the 14K Solid Gold Diamond Heart Earring adds sparkle and charm.
Explore our Flat Piercing Collection for more expertly curated pieces designed to complement this placement beautifully.
Unsure on what jewellery to add into your Flat piercing? Well, we have plenty of options that will work wonderfully! Check out our Flat Piercing Collection for our favourites.
FLAT COLLECTION
-
Wave Bar Diamond Earring
14K White Gold / Diamond / SinglePrecio habitual $410.00Precio habitualPrecio unitario por -
Wave Bar Diamond Earring
14K Yellow Gold / Diamond / SinglePrecio habitual $410.00Precio habitualPrecio unitario por -
Taselle Pearl Earring
14K Yellow Gold / Pearl / SinglePrecio habitual $260.00Precio habitualPrecio unitario por -
Taselle Pearl Earring
14K White Gold / Pearl / SinglePrecio habitual $270.00Precio habitualPrecio unitario por -
Taselle Disc Earring
14K Yellow Gold / SinglePrecio habitual $260.00Precio habitualPrecio unitario por
WANT MORE?
Looking to get some more piercings but not sure where to start? Here are our favourite piercing combos for a Flat piercing!
piercing and styling appointments
Ready to elevate your stack with a flat piercing? Book your appointment at one of our Covetear studios and experience the artistry of precision piercing.
If you’re unsure of placement or styling, our Deluxe Piercing Experience and Ear Curation Appointments offer tailored one-on-one consultations — ensuring your new piercing is perfectly aligned with your anatomy and aesthetic.