Frequently Asked Questions

General Tattoo Questions

  • How do I book an appointment?
    Use our CONTACT FORM or call 619-942-9737. A deposit is required to confirm.

  • What’s the minimum cost?
    $100 per tattoo/appointment.

  • Do I need a consultation first?
    Yes. Local clients meet with Shane before the session. Travelers will have a phone consult.

  • How far in advance do I need to book?
    Saturdays and travel dates fill up fast. Plan at least 2–3 months ahead.

  • Do you accept walk-ins?
    No. All work is by appointment only.

  • Can I bring a friend?
    Yes, but please only bring one guest.

  • What should I do before my appointment?
    Be well-rested, fed, and hydrated. Avoid sunburn, alcohol, and marijuana on the day of your session.

  • Do you re-bandage tattoos after the session?
    No. Let the area breathe and follow our aftercare instructions.

Decorative / Custom Tattoo Questions

  • Do you do flash tattoos or only custom work?
    All tattoos are custom-designed by Shane based on your ideas and references.

  • Can I see my design before my appointment?
    Yes. Shane will send a digital mockup for approval before the tattoo session.

  • How do you price large tattoos?
    Large or multi-session pieces are $250/hour. We’ll give you a rough estimate during consultation.

  • Can I get tattooed if I’ve been in the sun?
    No. Shane cannot tattoo sunburned skin. Please avoid sun exposure before your session.

Medical Tattoo Questions (Areola, Nipple, Mastectomy, Phalloplasty)

  • What types of medical tattoos do you offer?
    We specialize in 3D areola tattoos, unilateral/bilateral nipple tattooing, mastectomy scar coverage, and some vitiligo cases.

  • What’s the cost for areola or 3D nipple tattoos?
    $600 (unilateral or bilateral), includes a follow-up. Male/non-binary chest rate is $400.

  • Do you offer touch-ups?
    One touch-up is included if completed within one year. After that, a refresher fee of $200 applies.

  • Do you accept insurance?
    We don’t bill insurance directly, but we can provide coded receipts for reimbursement. Sharp HMO patients: please notify us when booking.

  • What info do I need for insurance paperwork?
    Full name, date of birth, address, phone, insurance company, member/group number, and whether your tattoo is unilateral or bilateral.

  • How far post-surgery should I wait before booking?
    At least 5 months post-surgery and 3 months post-fat grafting.

  • Can I still get tattooed if I have vitiligo?
    Possibly. Shane has worked with vitiligo clients but pigment retention can vary. Multiple close sessions may be needed.

  • Does it hurt?
    Pain varies. Many clients have little to no discomfort. Lidocaine can be used to numb the area.

  • Can I use numbing cream?
    Yes. We recommend SuperNumb—apply 2 hours before your appointment and cover with plastic wrap.

  • Can people with diabetes get tattooed?
    Yes, but healing may take longer.

  • Can I tan before or after?
    No. Avoid tanning before and protect the area from sun exposure for at least 8 weeks after.

Aftercare

  • How long does a tattoo take to heal?
    Healing usually takes up to 3 weeks.

  • Can I swim or use hot tubs while healing?
    No. Avoid soaking, pools, saunas, or hot tubs for at least 3 weeks.

  • Can I work out after my tattoo?
    Yes, but avoid friction or tight clothing on the area.

  • How do I care for my tattoo?
    Wash gently with unscented soap, let it air dry, and moisturize with a mild, unscented lotion (like Cetaphil or Eucerin). Don’t scratch or pick at it.

  • What if something seems off during healing?
    Minor redness is normal, but contact a healthcare provider if you notice swelling, oozing, or signs of infection.