microdermal gauges

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Saturday March 15th, 2008 @ 2:54 PM

Filed under: Pocketing

Just Wondering what the usual gauge a microdermal anchor is pierced? I read in the BME encyclopedia that a ten gauge was used. is this standard?

Also, are there pros, cons, different effects, anything that size would make a significant difference? I imagine it would need to be around a certain size for the skin to heal around it properly, but other than that I don’t see any reason why size would make a difference; you don’t see the shaft of the jewelry, just the ends…

thanks!

The methods used by different piercers for installing microdermal anchors can vary. Some use needles, some use dermal punches. Varying sizes of needles or punches may be used depending on the area of the body being pocketed and the style of jewelry being used. Microdermal anchors are more commonly seen with a 14g post and a 3/32″ rise, but they have been manufactured in other sizes and lengths as well. Some piercers will use a needle or punch at the same size as the microdermal post, some will use a larger size. It is arguably more practical to use different sizes and lengths of posts for certain people in certain areas of the body.

Microdermal anchors can be manufactured in longer lengths to allow the post to protrude from the skin. This allows the ability to grasp the post and change the attachments on the jewelry. These are commonly seen with “healing nubs” as an attachment.

Recently, microdermals are more commonly seen planted without the post showing and the visible attachment treated as more of a permanent adornment, not to be changed. This keeps the jewelry closer to the body and minimizes weight and chance of catching/hitting/putting pressure on the jewelry.

Swelling can also be a factor for a piercer when choosing which method and jewelry style/size to use. The amount of trauma induced by the procedure as well as a specific person’s tendency to swell will help determine this.

Only high quality microdermals should be used. This is determined by the jewelry manufacturer meeting ASTM quality specifications. These pieces are generally made in titanium as opposed to stainless steel for a variety of reasons.

The design of the jewelry can vary greatly, so be aware of what type your piercer is using and why. They can be made with and without holes, grooves or tracks in the base or “foot” of the jewelry. This will portray their knowledge and experience with microdermal anchor installation and removal.

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