Lip plate
A large disc inserted into a stretched lip piercing as body modification.
A lip plate is a form of body modification where increasingly large discs are inserted into pierced lips. Archaeological evidence shows this practice began independently in Africa, Mesoamerica, and Ecuador thousands of years ago.
- Discs are typically made from clay or wood.
- First plate diameter is about 4 cm.
- Final diameter can exceed 20 cm.
- Practice originated in Africa, Mesoamerica, and Ecuador.
- Record plate circumference was 59.5 cm.
What it is
A lip plate is a large circular disc made from clay, wood, or metal. It is inserted into a pierced hole in the upper or lower lip, or both. The insertion stretches the lip tissue significantly. The term labret refers to all pierced-lip ornaments, including these plates. The size varies greatly depending on the wearer's preference and stage of stretching.
History and origin
Archaeological records show disk and plate labrets were invented independently in several regions. Evidence dates back to Sudan and Ethiopia around 6000–5500 BCE. Similar practices appeared in Mesoamerica by 1500 BCE and coastal Ecuador by 500 BCE. In Africa, tribes like the Sara and Makonde traditionally wore them. Many groups have ceased the practice in recent decades due to external pressures or changing customs.
What it means
Among the Mursi and Surma of Ethiopia, the plate is linked to female strength and self-esteem. It is often worn before marriage, with the initial piercing performed by family members. While some sources claimed size indicated bride price wealth, researchers dispute this. In South America, plates among Amazonian tribes signal male maturity and oratory skill. For Haida and Tlingit women, they symbolized social maturity and eligibility for marriage.
Styling and care
The process begins with an incision and a wooden peg. After healing, larger pegs replace it until a clay plate fits. Women often craft their own plates with ornamentation. In contemporary times, many young women choose whether to wear them. The practice can cause health issues like infection, gum irritation, and difficulty eating. Some governments have tried to suppress it due to these risks.
In culture
Lip plates have been featured in circuses and sideshows in Europe and North America. The term 'Ubangi' was falsely used for these women in the early twentieth century. This misnomer appeared in films and songs. Today, the practice attracts tourism, which some communities find intrusive. Famous individuals include Ataye Eligidagne, who held a record for plate size.
Questions people ask about Lip plate
What materials are lip plates made from?
Lip plates are usually made from clay, wood, or metal. The material choice depends on regional traditions and availability. Clay is common in Ethiopia, while light wood is preferred in South America.
Why do Mursi women wear lip plates?
For the Mursi, the plate signifies female strength and self-esteem. It is worn after marriage preparation. The decision to wear one is often made by young women themselves today.
Are lip plates only worn by women?
No. While women in Ethiopia and Chad wear them, men in South American tribes also use plates. In North America, high-ranking women once wore them exclusively.
What health risks are associated with lip plates?
The practice can lead to infections during perforation. It may complicate eating and salivating. Gum irritation and tooth erosion are also possible consequences of the plate rubbing against teeth.
Good reading and sources
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Lip plate", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryFaceShape rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.
Like Lip plate
All adornment
🇲🇽 MexicoCalavera
Decorative or edible skulls made for the Mexican Day of the Dead.Adornment
WorldLabret
A body piercing placed below the bottom lip and above the chin.Adornment
WorldNose jewellery
Ornaments worn through nostril or septum piercings.Adornment · Most faces
🇮🇳 India and 4 moreBindi
A coloured dot worn on the forehead in South and Southeast Asia.Adornment · Most faces