Alysa Liu, the celebrated figure skater, distinguishes herself not only through her athletic prowess but also with her distinctive personal flair, prominently featuring a 'smiley' piercing. This subtle yet noticeable dental jewelry has become a signature element of her self-described 'grunge-artist' image, captivating audiences whenever she showcases her radiant smile. The choice of a frenulum piercing reflects a broader trend of athletes expressing their individuality through body art, challenging traditional perceptions of professional sports aesthetics. Liu's unique accessory sparks conversations about self-expression and personal branding within the highly regulated world of Olympic sports.
This article explores the details of Liu's intriguing oral piercing, explaining its nature, cost, and the process of its application. It clarifies common misconceptions, such as mistaking the piercing for dental braces, and delves into the practical aspects of frenulum piercings, including healing times and pain levels. Furthermore, it examines how this specific type of body modification contributes to Liu's overall public image, highlighting her desire to merge her artistic spirit with her athletic identity. The discussion aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of what makes this particular piercing a unique and increasingly popular choice among individuals seeking a subtle form of self-adornment.
The "Smiley" Piercing: Alysa Liu's Unique Dental Accent
American figure skating sensation Alysa Liu frequently showcases a striking silver detail when she smiles during her appearances at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This distinctive feature is a 'smiley' piercing, an elegant piece of body jewelry discreetly positioned through the frenulum, the delicate tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums. Unlike conventional dental adornments or corrective devices, this piercing remains concealed behind the upper lip, making a brief and captivating appearance only when Liu broadens her smile. It has become a recognizable aspect of her self-defined 'grunge-artist' aesthetic, setting her apart and adding a layer of personal expression to her public persona.
This particular type of oral piercing, also known as a frenulum piercing, is characterized by its strategic placement, which contributes to its unique visibility. Valued for its ability to be both hidden and revealed, the 'smiley' piercing appeals to those who wish for a subtle form of body art that can be displayed at will. Liu's adoption of this piercing highlights a growing trend among public figures and athletes to integrate personal style elements into their professional image, blurring the lines between sport and individual artistry. Her choice underscores a preference for unique modifications that reflect personal identity while offering a touch of unexpected charm.
Understanding Frenulum Piercings: Process, Pain, and Personal Style
A frenulum piercing, colloquially known as a 'smiley,' involves inserting jewelry through the slender strip of connective tissue located inside the upper lip. This piercing typically remains out of sight until the wearer engages in a wide smile or laughter, at which point the jewelry subtly emerges against the front teeth. The cost for such a piercing generally ranges from $30 to $100, varying based on the studio's reputation and the quality of the chosen jewelry. A notable advantage of this piercing is its relatively swift healing period, often taking only four to eight weeks to fully recover, provided meticulous oral hygiene is maintained. This quick recovery is largely due to the thinness of the tissue and the mouth's inherent rapid healing capabilities.
In terms of discomfort, the frenulum piercing is widely regarded as one of the least painful body modifications. The upper lip frenulum possesses very few nerve endings, allowing the needle to pass through almost instantaneously. Most discomfort is typically experienced post-procedure, manifesting as slight swelling or tenderness in the upper lip, and an initial sensation of the jewelry feeling heavy or unusual against the gums. This initial soreness, however, generally subsides within 48 to 72 hours due to the oral cavity's rapid healing capacity. The procedure itself is quick, usually under a minute, involving a piercer holding the frenulum steady with sterilized forceps before a small-gauge hollow needle is passed through, followed by the insertion of the jewelry.