I've really wanted my tongue pierced for about a year now and today, finally, I got it done. I did all the research and read some of the personal experiences to which I'm now contributing to. I'd also asked a few friends, but everyone I asked and everything I read said it didn't hurt at all. So about a week ago I found out I could have the week off school and work, and decided it was a good time to do it. However, a few things got in the way and it had to be postponed. I got really nervous over the weekend and started reading up on it more and more. My parents didn't want me to do it so that made it a bit harder, because they kept telling me horror stories about it.
At A Glance Author anonymous Contact anonymous@bme.anon When It just happened Studio ACT eze piercings Location canberra uni - the hub Anyway, I woke up this morning knowing that today was the day I was going to do it and to be honest, I was completely freaked out. Seriously I was terrified, I have no idea why, I just was, almost to the point of tears. I've had my ears pierced about six times (now only have four in) and that's all, so I guess I was just nervous about piercing another part of my body.
My mum and I looked around for a piercing saloon which was open and eventually settled on one out at UC. I talked to the guy on the phone and felt a whole lot better cause he was really nice.
An hour and a half later he was explaining everything to my mum and I. I'd filled in the forms and went in and sat on the bed. He was extremely thorough and showed that everything was packaged, everything was clean, and asked me not to touch my mouth or any of the utensils. I was amazed at how well it was set out, planned and how hygienic it was.
He asked me to try to suck away all my saliva, then dried my tongue with a cloth, and marked the top and the bottom. It had to be a little off centre because of my tongue web, but you'd never notice. I was a bit worried cause everyone talks about a numbing mouth rinse they got, but I wasn't given one. He put the clamps on and told me to shut my eyes. The guy was really nice and talked me through it step by step; telling me what he was doing before he did it. I don't remember it hurting but I know that at the time I thought I felt the tiniest jab, but it was less then getting your ears pierced – definitely nothing to be scared or worried about. It was practically nothing. Then the barbell went through, which I didn't even feel. The bottom went on and I rinsed my mouth with Listerine. It's been a few hours and I have suffered minimal swelling. I've been sucking on crushed ice a fair bit but even when I'm not my tongue is only a little swollen. It's a bit sore but it is absolutely worth it and not half what I expected. I can still talk pretty well too. Eating sucks, cause you can't chew or use your tongue for anything much. I tried eating a piece of chocolate which was a big mistake, it just got stuck haha. Eat soup and loads of jelly.
This morning I was beginning to think maybe I shouldn't do it, but I am 100% glad I did because I'm in love with it. I can't wait till it's healed so that I can play around with it some more, put new jewelry in, eat and talk again and like everyone I want to try it out haha (sorry if that sounds trashy).
Seriously, to anyone who wants it done but is getting cold feet, follow through! Chances are you'll be fine and you'll adore it. I can't believe I was so worked up and scared over such a tiny thing. I can't get the grin off my face. I think it helps to go somewhere where the piercer is really nice, thorough and experienced. The guy I went to was very friendly and sweet, and a little anal about the entire procedure but I'm glad he was cause it kept me reassured. It also helps to have a friend supporting you; I was talking to a friend via phone the whole time before. To anyone whose parents don't want them to do it remind them that it's removable – that seems to be the most convincing argument. If they say no, I'd seriously still do it because it rocks. Hope this has helped someone as much as other people's experiences helped me. Good luck to anyone getting it done! :)