Comparing Scaffold and Orbital Piercings: Pain Levels and Healing Processes
Pain is a peculiar beast, it sneaks up on you, shapes your experiences, and is profoundly personal. Pain is subjective, and it varies from person to person—especially when it comes to piercings. When we compare scaffold piercings, which are also known as industrial piercings, to orbital piercings, there are several factors to consider. This comparison offers insights into their pain levels and the challenges of healing.
Understanding Scaffold Piercings
A scaffold piercing is a piercing that runs through two points of cartilage, typically on the upper portion of the ear. This piercing serves as a modern take on traditional ear adornments. Having this piercing is not for the faint of heart; the intensity of the pain during the initial healing period can be quite significant.
Pain and Healing
When dealing with scaffold piercings, pain is often a significant concern. The piercing runs through the cartilage, creating a more prominent and larger hole compared to traditional piercings. Due to the deeper nature of the perforation, the recovery period can be longer and more challenging. Healing can take several months, with a range from 6 to 12 months being common.
Healing in Different Climates
Living in a moist climate, such as Portland, Oregon, where the air is more humid, can add complexity to the healing process. Humidity can slow the healing process, making it even more important to maintain proper aftercare. Each time you step out into the misty mornings, you are reminded of the extra care and patience required for successful healing.
Understanding Orbital Piercings
Orbital piercings are another form of cartilage piercing that can be placed in various locations on the ear. However, the most common placement is the outer rim of the ear. The healing experience for an orbital piercing is generally considered to be less painful and take a shorter time compared to scaffold piercings.
Pain Level and Placement
The pain level for an orbital piercing can vary depending on the placement. In general, an orbital in the earlobe is similar to a double earlobe piercing, which is considered less painful and heals within 3 to 4 weeks. However, if the orbital is placed in the cartilage above the earlobe, the pain level may increase, but it is still significantly less than the pain experienced with scaffold piercings.
Clinical Comparisons
When comparing an orbital piercing with an industrial piercing, several factors come into play. An orbital is essentially two piercings that run through a hoop, whereas an industrial piercing is a single series of piercings running through the cartilage. The pain level for an orbital in the cartilage can range from 4 to 5 out of 10 on the pain scale, and it typically heals within 2 to 3 months.
Communal Discussions
When engaging in discussions about scaffold and orbital piercings, it's essential to consider the individual experiences and preferences. As someone who has already weathered the scaffold piercing without cursing the heavens too much, one might find the orbital piercing to be a relatively more comfortable process.
The Difference in Placement
It's crucial to note that not all orbital piercings are the same. For instance, a conch piercing is not the same as an orbital piercing. The typical look of an orbital piercing involves a single hoop going through your ear twice, while a conch piercing has a different configuration.
Orbital in the Lobe vs. Cartilage
An orbital in the earlobe is similar to a double lobe piercing, which is less painful. When the orbital is placed in the cartilage above the earlobe, the pain level increases, but it is still significantly less than an industrial piercing. As experienced, the helix piercings (problems with pulling and stress) make the pain worse, while the conch piercing (location) has remained painless.
Conclusion Summary
In conclusion, both scaffold and orbital piercings come with their own sets of pain and healing challenges. While scaffold piercings are more painful and have a longer recovery period, orbital piercings are generally less painful and heal faster, especially when placed in the earlobe. However, individual experiences and healing times can vary, making the decision on which to choose a deeply personal one.
Additional Information
For further reading on piercings, pain, and healing, consider exploring resources such as Piercing Thailand's Piercing Guide or Bodyplex's Piercing Guides. These platforms offer detailed information and community insights that can help in making informed decisions.