How to Choose Your Flatback Earring  Post Length?

Flatback post lengths, how tight should ear piercings be?

To find the ideal post length for flatback earrings, consider your ear’s anatomy, the angle of your piercing, and how you like your jewelry to sit.

Flatback earrings come in different post lengths to suit every ear shape and piercing. 

Choosing the Right Flatback Earring Post Length — TL;DR

  • New Piercing: Start with a longer post (around 8mm) to allow space for swelling and proper healing.

  • Healed Piercing: Switch to a shorter post that sits snugly and offers a sleek, comfortable fit.

  • Too Short: Posts that are too tight can cause swelling, irritation, and poor airflow.

  • Too Long: Excess length can lead to shifting, discomfort, and delayed healing.

Getting the post length right can make all the difference. It impacts comfort, healing, and how your jewelry sits. Read on to learn what to look for.

How to Choose the Right Flatback Post Length

Finding the right post length is one of the most important yet often overlooked parts of choosing flatback earrings. It affects not just how your jewelry looks but also how it feels, how it heals, and how it holds up to everyday wear. Whether you're new to piercings or curating the perfect ear stack, here's everything you need to know.

1. Know the Basics

Flatback earrings’ posts typically come in a few standard lengths, with 6mm and 8mm being the most common. These sizes cover a wide range of piercing placements, ear shapes, and options for both healing and healed piercings.

2. For New Piercings

When it comes to fresh piercings, most professional piercers will start you off with a longer post, usually around 8mm, to allow room for swelling and easy cleaning. This helps reduce irritation and lowers the risk of complications. It’s generally recommended to wait at least 6 to 8 weeks, or longer for cartilage, before changing or downsizing your jewelry.

3. For Healed Piercings

Once your piercing has fully healed, you can usually switch to a 6mm post. This shorter length sits more snugly against the ear, offering a more polished, minimal look while reducing movement. It’s ideal for those who want a secure fit without any extra bulk.

4. Snug, Not Tight

The right post should feel secure without putting pressure on your piercing. Flatback earrings are designed to sit flush against the skin, which provides both comfort and aesthetic appeal—but they shouldn’t feel like they’re digging in. A snug fit supports healing and everyday wear without discomfort.

5. Avoid Short Posts

A post that’s too short might seem sleek at first, but it can cause issues. If the backing presses too tightly against your skin, it can lead to redness, swelling, and poor airflow around the piercing. This not only slows down healing but can also increase your risk of infection or keloids.

6. Avoid Long Posts

On the flip side, a post that’s too long may droop or shift around throughout the day. This constant movement can irritate the piercing and lead to uneven healing. Long posts are also more likely to snag on hair, clothing, or accessories, especially if you wear headphones or masks frequently.

7. Look for Slight Movement

A well-fitted flatback earring should have just a little room for movement, not so much that it feels loose, but enough to allow for comfort and easy cleaning. The goal is to keep the earring stable while still supporting the natural movement of your ear.

8. Anatomy Matters

Everyone’s ears are different. The right post length for one person might not be ideal for another. Factors like cartilage thickness, lobe size, and the angle of your piercing all play a role in choosing the perfect fit.

9. Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional piercer. They can help assess your ear anatomy and recommend a post length that supports both comfort and safety.

10. Need Help Changing?

That’s why our flatback earrings come in multiple post lengths—because jewelry should fit you, not the other way around. Whether you're after durability, a secure fit, or looking to switch up your look, there's a size that suits you perfectly. And with our Titanium Piercing Insertion Tool Set, changing flatback earrings is as easy as 1-2-3.

Conclusion: Snug, Secure, and Stylish

Flatback earrings are all about comfort and clean styling, but it starts with the right length. Don’t settle for a post that pokes or droops. Find your perfect fit, and your piercings (and ears) will thank you.