Surgical treatment for vitiligo is a medical procedure used to restore skin pigmentation in patients with stable vitiligo, where no new patches or progression have occurred for at least 6–12 months. It is generally recommended when medical therapies and phototherapy do not provide satisfactory results.
This treatment works by transferring healthy pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) from normally pigmented skin to depigmented white patches, helping to reintroduce natural color to the affected areas.
It is mainly used for localized or stable vitiligo cases and is considered one of the most effective options for achieving long-term repigmentation in selected patients.
Vitiligo surgery is most effective for patients with stable vitiligo who have not achieved satisfactory results with medical treatments or phototherapy. Careful patient selection is essential to maximize repigmentation outcomes and long-term success.
Suitable Candidates:
Not Suitable For:
Vitiligo surgery restores skin color by transferring healthy pigment-producing cells from normal skin to depigmented areas. These cells help re-establish melanin production and promote natural repigmentation.
Proper pre- and post-operative care is important for successful healing, graft survival, and optimal repigmentation after vitiligo surgery. Following your dermatologist’s instructions can help improve treatment outcomes and reduce complications.
Before procedure:
After vitiligo surgery, mild redness, swelling, or crusting may occur during the healing phase. Repigmentation develops gradually over the following weeks and months as transplanted melanocytes begin producing pigment. Some patients may require additional sessions or supportive phototherapy for optimal results.
Vitiligo surgery results develop gradually as transplanted melanocytes begin producing pigment. Individual outcomes vary depending on disease stability, treatment method, and post-procedure care.
For best results, patients should follow post-treatment instructions and attend recommended follow-up or phototherapy sessions.
Vitiligo surgery is generally safe, but some patients may experience the following side effects.
Most side effects are mild and improve as the skin heals. Infection is rare when proper aftercare instructions are followed.
The cost of vitiligo surgery in India varies depending on the surgical technique used, the size and location of the affected area, and the expertise of the treatment center. Simple grafting procedures are generally more affordable, while advanced treatments such as Melanocyte-Keratinocyte Transplantation Procedure (MKTP) may involve higher costs.
The final cost may vary based on the clinic, city, technology used, and the number of treatment sessions required.
| Treatment | Best For | Key Benefit |
| Surgical Treatment | Stable, resistant vitiligo | Faster and long-lasting repigmentation |
| Phototherapy (NB-UVB) | Widespread vitiligo | Safe, non-surgical treatment for larger areas |
| Phototherapy (NB-UVB) | Early or small patches | Easy-to-use first-line treatment |
| Excimer Laser | Localized patches | Targeted treatment with faster results |
Surgery is typically recommended for stable vitiligo that has not responded adequately to other treatment options.
Results are long-lasting, but maintenance therapy like phototherapy may improve stability.
It is usually done under local anesthesia, so pain is minimal
Recurrence is possible if the disease becomes active again.
Typically 1–4 hours depending on the area treated
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