What Is a North West Face Piercing
A north west face piercing typically refers to a surface or dermal-style adornment placed on the upper cheek or temple region, northwest of the eye. There is no single industry-standard definition, so the term may describe a dermal anchor, a microdermal, or a multi-piercing arrangement that emphasizes the cheek-to-temple contour. Because the phrase is sometimes used informally, clarifying exact placement, jewelry type, and anatomical landmarks is essential for safe planning and aftercare. This evergreen explainer defines common interpretations, outlines verified aftercare practices, and compares options based on anatomy, jewelry, and professional experience.
Anatomy and Placement Considerations
Key Anatomical Structures
The north west face area overlaps zones rich in nerves, blood vessels, and bone. Important landmarks include the zygomatic arch, malar bone, temporal fascia, and branches of the facial nerve. The supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves run above the orbit, while the zygomaticotemporal nerve and vessels pass through the zygomaticotemporal foramen on the lateral orbital rim. Avoiding major motor branches of the facial nerve, particularly near the nasolabial fold and along the preauricular line, is critical to reduce numbness or motor weakness risks.
Common Placement Options
- Dermal cheek anchor sited on the zygomatic arch crest, away from the eye
- Temple microdermal following the superior temporal ridge
- Combination cheek and temple piercings creating a linear design
- High cheek piercings aligned with the malar bone, angled north-west
Consulting a licensed piercer for precise marking ensures jewelry clears bone while minimizing soft tissue trauma. Individual anatomy, skin elasticity, and scar history influence optimal placement and long-term comfort.
Typical Procedure and Jewelry Choices
Step-by-Step Overview
A professional session generally follows these steps: consultation and marking, skin prep, needle or cannula insertion, jewelry placement, and aftercare instructions. For dermal anchors, a small entry point is created, and the jewelry base is seated under the surface using a specialized tool. Surface bars and captive bead rings may be used when anatomy allows, while microdermals rely on single-point insertion. Local anesthetic may be offered, depending on pain tolerance and piercing depth.
Jewelry Materials and Types
Implant-grade titanium, 316LVM surgical steel, and 14k or 18k solid gold are preferred materials to reduce nickel exposure and allergic reactions. Jewelry options include: - Dermal tops with a visible decorative gem or flat back - Surface bars for initial piercing retention - Captive bead rings when space permits - Custom microdermal discs
| Jewelry Type | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dermal Anchor | Single entry point with flush base under skin | Industry standard for north west face placement |
| Surface Bar | Two-flanged bar for initial piercing | Common for curved anatomy |
| Captive Bead Ring | Hollow ring with removable ball closure | Used when tissue depth allows |
| Microdermal | Post-style anchor with top disc | Ideal for linear or cluster designs |
Healing Timeline and Biological Factors
Healing duration varies with placement depth, tissue quality, and aftercare consistency. Surface piercings in the cheek and temple can require 6 to 12 months for full maturation, while dermal anchors often stabilize in 4 to 8 months. Early stages involve inflammation, oozing, and crust formation; consistent cleaning and avoiding pressure support successful integration. Rejection, migration, or embedding are potential biological responses influenced by anatomy, jewelry size, and aftercare diligence.
Aftercare Protocol and Lifestyle Adjustments
Daily Cleaning Routine
Gentle saline soaks twice daily help remove debris and support epithelialization. Use a fragrance-free, non-iodized sea salt solution applied with a clean gauze or cotton pad, followed by a pat-dry motion. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and harsh antiseptics that can damage healthy tissue. Sleeping with an elevated head and using clean pillowcases reduce bacterial exposure.
Activity and Environmental Considerations
- Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, and natural water bodies until fully healed
- Keep hair products, gels, and sprays away from the jewelry and entry point
- Use clean hands for any jewelry adjustment or cleaning
- Protect the area from direct sun and wind exposure during healing
- Monitor for signs of infection, including spreading redness, heat, or persistent discharge
Consistency with aftercare, rather than topical products alone, correlates most strongly with uncomplicated healing and long-term satisfaction.
Risks, Contraindications, and Professional Standards
Potential complications include bacterial infection, prolonged inflammation, allergic reaction, nerve irritation, and scarring. Contraindications include active skin infections near the site, certain systemic conditions affecting wound healing, and use of blood thinners without medical guidance. Choose a studio that follows strict sterilization protocols, uses single-use needles, provides clear written aftercare, and holds current health safety certifications. Piercers should conduct thorough health screenings and refuse procedures when anatomical risks are high.
Long-Term Outcomes and Design Evolution
Many people enjoy north west face piercings as long-term features, while others prefer rotating jewelry seasonally or shifting between dermal and surface styles. Skin elasticity, weight changes, and aging can subtly affect jewelry positioning over time. Scarring, texture changes, or minor migration may occur; working with an experienced piercer and communicating preferences helps align expectations. Regular checkups and timely jewelry size adjustments support continued comfort and aesthetic appeal.