There are a lot of places to go to get a behind-the-ear tattoo, or even something that wraps around the ear (like this one). But things get a bit more complicated when it comes to getting one done right on the outer ear.
What to Know About Getting an Ear Tattoo in Vancouver BC
Sensitivity
The outer ear is comprised of the following:
- Pinna (auricle): This is the visible part of the ear that collects sound waves. Tattooing the pinna is possible, but requires careful consideration due to the area’s sensitivity and unique characteristics.
- External auditory canal: A tube that leads from the pinna to the middle ear. This area is especially delicate, and tattooing it is potentially risky procedure due to the anatomy of the ear and its proximity to the inner ear structures responsible for hearing and balance. It is a tube-like passageway that extends from the outer ear, auricle (which we discussed above) to the tympanic membrane, eardrum (which we reference below). A tattoo may touch the outer edge of external auditory canal but should never extend deeper. It won’t be visible anyways.
- Tympanic membrane (eardrum): A thin membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle. You will not be getting a tattoo in this zone.
Free-Hand
While it can be done on the outermost part of the ear, it is extremely challenging to apply tattoo transfer paper to the outer ear to create a stencil for a tattoo. In 99% of cases the work is done by free-hand, based upon a design that the artist and client agree upon.
Choice of Tattoo Shop
Considering what we have laid out above, the message about choosing the right tattooist is loud and clear. Only an artist with extensive experience in tattooing sensitive parts of the body (those that may compromise function without extreme care) should be considered when seeking an “ear tattoo near me”. If located within or are visiting the Greater Vancouver BC area, choose one of Adrenaline Studios longstanding artists to do the job.
Rad Carney, who works out of our Main Street location, is responsible for creating the work of body art that you see on the ear of a super-stoked client below. View Rad’s bio right here, and check out his extensive portfolio on Instagram here.
Recently completed at Adrenaline Studios
Whether you have a specific design in mind, or would like Rad or another one of our resident artist/s come up with a ear tattoo for you, you will enjoy a FREE consultation at one of our Vancouver BC parlors.
TAP TO BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION
CALL: 604-669-6800
(Vancouver locals and visitors)
Written By:
dnixon
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