I always recommend getting the tattoo you actually want, in the placement you actually want. A tattoo should not be something you get just to “test” the pain or get used to the experience, so don’t give up on your original idea only because the ribs are considered a painful area.

Rib tattoos can definitely be more intense, but the pain is temporary. With breaks, and if necessary by splitting the tattoo into more than one session, the piece can still be completed comfortably enough.

Once the tattoo is finished, the pain passes very quickly. I’ve never had a client finish a session and regret the tattoo because it hurt too much. Most people are already thinking about their next tattoo not long after.