I think they are grotesque but beautiful.
Though surface piercings have a lot of complications and might reject, if they do, it will leave scar tissue that will be even harder to pierce through or a scar, though the scarring might look neat as well.
I doubt it would hurt much more than any other surface piercing, not too bad... if you are into tattoos I bet the piercings wont feel like much to you if you get them a few at a time.
If you are willing to be sore and not be able to lay on your back while they heal, and spending a good fortune... I'd say go for it.