At A Glance Author anonymous Contact anonymous@bme.anon When Three months ago Artist Lyons Studio ACME tattoo Location Charlottesville, Va
I had my tongue pierced for the first time back in 98 by the same piercer but at a different location. That was the first piercing I ever had done; other than earlobe. I was so impressed with her professionalism and knowledge that I knew I'd be coming back for more. Unfortunately after much debate the tongue ring and several other piercings I had were taken out for a job in 99. I regret that though as the job turned out to be a disappointment and I left shortly after starting. It was long enough however for the piercings to close. Several years went by before I started to consider having some of the piercings redone. I am also a mother and I found stares and rude comments quite common. My son has always been an avid supporter of my interest in ink and piercings; so needless to say he was as excited as I was when I told him I decided to have the piercings redone. I realized I was setting an example for him of the importance of individuality and self expression.
After discovering the studio I had gone to in 98 was closed; I was happy to find the piercer was still in my town at a new shop. I called her first to make sure she had the time to do my piercing; and she said come on in that night. After a few minutes of riding around trying to locate the new studio; we found it, parked and went up.My friends had never been in a studio before and were amazed with the flash on the wall. While waiting for the piecer to finish up; I noticed she had her portfolio on the counter. I flipped through, and was impressed to see all the work she had done. It was obvious she had experience with many different types of piercings...which definitely gave my confidence a boost.
She asked me if I was ready and called me back. There were several private rooms, which I really liked. Even for a tongue piercing it still helped me relax a little to have a private room. I sat on the edge of the table, swinging my feet and looking around the room while she made the necessary preparations. Everything was very clean and organized. The piercer had quite a few piercings herself which is important to me. I like the thought that the piercer is as passionate about what she does as the clients that come in wanting the piercings done. She talked about the training she had received and the seminars she'd attended since my first visit back in 98.Her laid back personality and confidence made it very easy to relax. After looking at my tongue and determining that it would have to be re-pierced; I asked if she could use a 12 gauge. Thats what I had the first time and preferred the slightly larger size.
She dried my tongue off with a piece of gauze and stretched it out. I was surprised to find the needle slide through quickly and easily; as there was still some opening from the previous piercing. I did bleed a little; which I expected since I had previous piercings and seem more prone to it than most. In less than 5 minutes we were discussing after care with only a few slight changes from the first time around. In addition to the aftercare sheets, she also gave me a small bag of sea salt which came in handy as it was late at night and I would have no idea where to find it anyway! It was such a positive experience I was already discussing with her what I wanted done next.
The healing process for me was also very positive as it was the first time around. My swelling was minimal; only slight soreness and discomfort for a few days and my speech was never affected throughout the whole process.
Overall I think it was the best experience I could have had. I was pleased with the setting, the piercer's qualifications and personality. I have had more piercings done since then and have decided not to sacrifice who I am for a job anymore. I am fortunate enough to have a found a job that accepts me for who I am and realizes my qualifications are in no way affected by my interests.
My suggestion for someone looking for a piercer; especially if it is their first piercing is to check everything out. Go in, talk to the piercer. Find out what their qualifications are. Don't be afraid to ask questions. The studio should be clean and well organized. And anyone in the Central Va area would benefit from checking out ACME. Lyons has my highest recommendation. Thank you, ACME and Lyons for making my experience such a positive one!