Piercing help?

Hello.
I've been wanting a lip ring for about two years now, maybe closer to three.
I know exactly what I want, and I've read about aftercare and healing times, and I even know what gauge and length I would like (16-20g and 3/8-1/2 length).

BUT I don't know anybody personally who has ever gotten this done, and I was wondering about people's personal experiences with pain, healing time, scarring, etc.

If you have or have had a lip ring or piercing, what was it like for you?
What is painful, did it take forever to heal, was it the easiest piercing you've ever done?

Thanks so much!

Now I just need to convince my mom I'm serious.

; )

Also:

If you are against piercings please don't leave comments saying they're gross. I've heard it all before, and I like lip rings, on most people.
Unless they're like, 00 gauge, and really nasty, BUT that is not my point.

I just want a small, thin, simple ring for the right side of my bottom lip.

Thank you!

I was thinking something like this