Body Piercing Healing Times

Body Piercing Healing Times

Overview

Each body piercing site has its own normal healing time. Common sites usually heal within the time frames listed below. Healing depends on many things. It can depend on how big the piercing is and how thick the tissue is at the site. Your own ability to heal can also affect healing time.

Piercing site healing times

Piercing site

Healing time

Ear cartilage (curve of ear)

2 to 4 months

Nostril (nose)

2 to 8 months

Face (includes the earlobes, eyebrows, and lips)

6 to 8 weeks

Inside of the mouth or tongue

3 to 6 weeks

Nipple

6 to 12 months

Genitals (clitoral hood, labia, and penis)

6 to 12 months

Belly button (navel)

Up to 9 months

A piercing may not heal as fast if it gets infected or irritated or if scar tissue forms. You may need to see your doctor if your piercing does not seem to be healing.

Credits

Current as of: March 22, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine