Your questions answered
Frequently Asked Questions
Pat has spent years helping nervous and first-time clients feel completely at ease. Here are the questions he hears most often — answered honestly.
- I'm really nervous about getting pierced. Is that normal?
- Completely normal — and honestly, it's one of the most common things Pat hears. He has spent years working with nervous and first-time clients, and his entire approach is built around patience and making you feel comfortable before anything happens. There's no rush, no pressure, and no judgment. You set the pace.
- Does getting a piercing hurt?
- Most piercings are quicker than people expect — a brief pinch that's over in a second. Pat uses precise technique and implant-grade jewelry to minimize trauma to the tissue, which means less discomfort during the procedure and a smoother healing process afterward. He'll walk you through exactly what to expect before he starts.
- What's the best piercing for a first-timer?
- It depends on your anatomy and what you're drawn to. Nostril, helix, and lobe piercings are popular first choices because they heal well and are easy to care for. Pat will assess your anatomy and talk through your options so you can make a confident, informed decision — not a rushed one.
- Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
- Walk-ins are always welcome at Pat Riot Piercing. If you have a specific time in mind or want to guarantee availability for a more involved piercing, calling ahead is a good idea — but you're never required to book in advance.
- What kind of jewelry do you use?
- Only implant-grade materials: ASTM F136 titanium, 18k solid gold, rose gold, and platinum. Pat does not use mystery metals, surgical steel, or acrylic. Starting with high-quality jewelry is one of the most important factors in a healthy, comfortable heal — and it's something he refuses to compromise on.
- How long does a piercing take to heal?
- Healing times vary by placement. Earlobes typically heal in 6–9 months; cartilage piercings like helix and daith take 9–12 months or longer; nostril piercings average 4–6 months; navel piercings can take 9–12 months. Pat will give you a realistic timeline and detailed aftercare instructions specific to your piercing.
- What should I do to prepare for my piercing?
- Eat a full meal beforehand — low blood sugar can make you feel lightheaded. Stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being pierced, and avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment. That's really all you need. Pat will handle the rest.
- How do I clean my new piercing?
- Rinse twice daily with a sterile saline wound wash — nothing else. No soap, no alcohol, no hydrogen peroxide, no rotating the jewelry. Leave it alone as much as possible. Pat provides full written aftercare instructions with every piercing and is always available to answer questions if something doesn't look right.
- What if my piercing gets irritated or infected?
- Irritation bumps are common and usually resolve with proper care. Signs of a true infection — spreading redness, significant swelling, fever, or pus — are rare with quality jewelry and good aftercare. If you're ever unsure, stop in or call the studio. Pat would rather you check in than guess.
- Do you pierce minors?
- Yes, with a parent or legal guardian present and a valid photo ID for both the minor and the adult. The guardian must remain in the studio for the duration of the appointment and sign a consent form.
- Why choose Pat Riot Piercing over other studios?
- Pat has been piercing professionally for over a decade, trained under Fakir Musafar — a foundational figure in modern body piercing — and has been voted Scranton's Best Piercer by Weekender readers multiple times. But what clients mention most is how calm and unhurried the experience feels. If you've been putting off a piercing because you're nervous, Pat's studio is the right place to start.
- Where are you located?
- Pat Riot Piercing is located in Suite 208 at the Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Avenue, in historic downtown Scranton, PA. Open Tuesday through Friday noon to 7 PM, Saturday noon to 7 PM, and Sunday 1–5 PM.
Still have a question?
Pat is happy to talk through anything before you come in. Call, email, or just stop by — walk-ins are always welcome.