I've had snake bites for 2 years and have had to repeatedly re-pierce them (I have a bad history with the retainers staying in). I had my lip pierced for about 7 months when one fell out and it closed in an hour and a half- if that. How long do I have to have them in before I can take them out for a day with out them closing?

It varies from person to person but unless you've had it peirced (without re-piercing) for about a year and a half to two years you shouldn't really take it out and leave it out because each time you repierce it you're pushing through scar tissue and it could still get infected and you'll just end up with a bigger scar. I'm guessing you want to take it out for work/school as you mentioned retainers? I suggest a labret retainer with an o-ring but cut the end off so it doesn't stick out so much, its what I did with mine and it was fine!

Yeah I figured as much haha I had glass retainers with the o rings but the o rings got pushed off. I like the glass because you can't feel it when they're in but you also can't tell if they fall out lol

I used the bioplast retainers, they're so much more comfortable and lighter so they're not likely to fall out and they bend nicely.. they're only about £2.50 each so if you don't like them you haven't wasted stupid amounts of money.

Thanks I'll check them out. Jewelry and products for piercings in general can be pretty expensive :/

http://www.bodyjewelleryshop.com/online_store/labret_retainers_437.cfm

I always use this site.. really quick to deliver as well.