Tattoos and piercings have become more popular over the last few decades, normalizing everything from dramatically gauged earlobes to unique facial piercings — some that go beyond traditional eyebrow, nose or lip rings. 

As trends continue to grow, people opt for more eccentric types and unexpected locations for their piercings. One such location? The eyeball. If this sounds like a risky endeavor, it’s because it is.

Here’s everything you need to know about eyeball piercings, from how they are implanted, to the complications they can bring to the wearer.

Why pierce your eyeball?

Eyeball piercings first became popular in Europe and eventually made their way into the United States in the 2010s. An unsightly fashion statement to some, eyeball jewelry is considered desirable by many others.

Dr. Emil Chynn, an eye surgeon based in New York City, was the first to offer eyeball piercing services in America at his practice, Park Avenue LASEK. The office offers “amazing eye jewelry” implantation for the cost of $3,000. They also offer services including laser eye surgery, dry eye treatment and even corneal tattoos.

Eyeball jewelry is a way to keep curious fashion followers up on the latest sparkling fads, and the cosmetic procedure helps keep Dr. Chynn’s office on the map. In fact, Park Avenue LASEK attests that it is the only place that offers the unique service.

What does an eyeball piercing look like?

An eyeball piercing is a small implanted piece of jewelry that a person wears in the outer corner of the white of their eye (sclera). It’s surgically inserted in the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane that covers the sclera. 

When it’s in place, an eyeball piercing looks like a small, gem-like decoration that puts a literal sparkle in someone’s eye. Unlike other types of piercings, an eyeball piercing does not have a ring or a “backing,” and it cannot be removed without undergoing surgery.