Vitiligo Surgery in Lucknow

When Is Surgery Considered?

Vitiligo surgery is not the first line of treatment. It's considered when:

• Vitiligo has been stable for at least 6–12 months (no new patches, no spreading)
• Topical treatment and phototherapy have been tried but patches remain
• Patches are in areas with poor blood supply (lips, fingertips, bony areas) where medical treatment is less effective
• The patient has realistic expectations about outcomes

Surgical Techniques

Suction Blister Grafting

• Suction is applied to normal pigmented skin to create small blisters
• The thin blister roof (containing melanocytes) is carefully removed
• This tissue is placed on the depigmented patch (prepared by dermabrasion or laser)
• Best for: Small to medium patches, especially on face and neck
• Advantage: No scarring at donor site, good colour match

Melanocyte-Keratinocyte Transfer (MKTP)

• A small piece of normal skin is taken and processed to create a melanocyte suspension
• The suspension is applied to the prepared depigmented area
• Best for: Larger areas of stable vitiligo
• Advantage: Can cover larger areas from a small donor site

Punch Grafting

• Small punches of pigmented skin are transferred to corresponding holes in the depigmented area
• Best for: Small, localized patches
• Limitation: Can have a cobblestone appearance if not done precisely

What to Expect

• Procedure time: 1–3 hours depending on area size
• Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia
• Recovery: 1–2 weeks for initial healing; pigmentation develops over 3–6 months
• Success rate: 70–90% repigmentation in carefully selected patients
• Post-surgery: Phototherapy sessions may be needed to enhance pigmentation spread

Who Is Not a Candidate

• Active, spreading vitiligo (unstable disease)
• Koebner phenomenon positive (new patches at injury sites)
• Keloid-forming tendency
• Unrealistic expectations of 100% perfect colour match