Overview

Vitiligo, also known as 'leucoderma' or 'saved kod', is characterized by depigmented patches on the skin due to an autoimmune process. These patches can cause significant psychological stress due to their appearance and social implications. Treatment aims to stabilize or pigment the affected areas using various medical and surgical techniques.

Description

Treatment of vitiligo involves medical therapies to stabilize depigmentation and induce repigmentation. Dermato-surgical techniques are considered for stable vitiligo patches where medical therapy has not achieved satisfactory results. These techniques include miniature punch grafting, ultra-thin skin grafting, suction blister grafting, therapeutic dermabrasion, melanocyte culture and transplantation, and tattooing.

Consultation

Consultation with Dr. Chaudhari is crucial to assess your medical history, extent of vitiligo, previous treatments, and goals. This helps in determining the most suitable treatment approach, whether medical therapy or dermato-surgical techniques.

Procedure

  • Miniature Punch Grafting: Small grafts (2-2.5 mm) are taken from donor sites using special punches and transplanted onto depigmented areas. Post-grafting, PUVA or PUVA SOL therapy may be advised to enhance repigmentation, typically achieving results in 3-6 months.
  • Ultra-Thin Skin Grafting: A very thin graft of epidermis is applied onto dermabraded or laser-ablated areas of stable vitiligo. The graft integrates over time, with repigmentation typically visible in 2-3 months.
  • Suction Blister Grafting: Negative pressure is used to raise a blister at the donor site, from which an epidermal graft is obtained and transplanted onto the recipient area. This technique is meticulous but offers good cosmetic outcomes.
  • Melanocyte Culture and Transplantation: Melanocytes are cultured in a lab, and then applied to dermabraded or laser-ablated vitiligo areas. This method can cover large areas and achieve excellent cosmetic results.
  • Tattooing: Artificial pigment matching the surrounding skin color is implanted into depigmented patches using manual or electric needles. While it provides immediate results, tattooing may fade or change color over time.

After Surgery

    After surgery, patients may experience temporary discomfort or mild swelling. Follow-up visits will monitor graft integration and pigment restoration progress. Post-operative care includes adherence to recommended UV therapy and avoiding sun exposure to optimize results.

Results

    Results vary depending on the technique used and individual response. Typically, repigmentation begins within months post-surgery, improving skin appearance and reducing psychological distress associated with vitiligo. Multiple sessions may be necessary for optimal outcomes.

Complications

    Complications from vitiligo surgeries are rare but can include infection, scarring, or failure of graft uptake. Dr. Chaudhari will discuss these risks and ensure appropriate post-operative care to minimize them.
Disclaimer: Individual results may vary. It's important to follow Dr. Chaudhari's post-operative instructions and attend scheduled follow-up appointments for best results.

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