This piercing is typically fitted with a 14, 16, or 18 gauge labret, the bars of which are usually shortened after healing. The lip can often swell considerably after the piercing and will need both facial and oral aftercare to keep both sides of the jewellery clean at all times. Monroes, like all piercings, are prone to infection and it is vital that the piercing is cleaned regularly. Scarring is minimal to none if properly taken care of.
An advantage of a Monroe piercing is that the lip area generally heals faster than other piercings. The estimated healing time given by professional piercers for this type of lip piercing is between 8–12 weeks, but many find it heals in 3–6 weeks.
The Monroe can be a very painful piercing process, as this area of the body contains a large system of nerves. There is a small risk of piercing the superior labial artery, which lies just above the upper lip.