Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by the development of white patches on the skin due to the loss of pigment. It is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the pigment-producing cells. While the exact cause is unknown, vitiligo can affect anyone and tends to be more noticeable in individuals with darker skin tones. The condition typically starts with small pale patches that gradually expand over time. Although vitiligo is not harmful or contagious, it can have a significant psychological impact, as it alters a person's appearance and may lead to social stigma and emotional distress.

Treatments

  • Topical and oral medicines: We prescribe oral medicines and topical creams based on the size, pattern, location and extent of patches. Phototherapy is also added in some patients to increase the efficacy of treatment.

  • Vitiligo surgery: Vitiligo surgery aims to restore pigmentation to the depigmented areas, improving the appearance and overall quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. It is generally considered when other treatment approaches, such as topical medications, phototherapy, or oral therapies, have not yielded satisfactory results or resistant to conventional treatments. There are several types of surgical procedures employed in vitiligo surgery, each tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of the individual patient. These procedures include punch grafting, suction blister grafting, split-thickness skin grafting, and micropigmentation or tattooing.