Vitiligo is more than just a skin condition—it’s a life-altering journey that affects self-esteem, confidence, and emotional well-being. Characterized by white patches on the skin due to the loss of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes), vitiligo can be especially challenging when it appears on visible areas such as the face, lips, hands, and arms.
While medical treatments like topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and phototherapy can help in early or progressing stages, surgical treatments such as Micro Punch Grafting offer a more permanent solution for stable vitiligo. Among them, Micro Punch Grafting has emerged as one of the most effective and minimally invasive procedures to restore pigmentation.
In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Micro Punch Grafting—from how it works, who it’s for, what results to expect, and why it could be your path toward clearer, more even-toned skin.
What Is Micro Punch Grafting?
Micro Punch Grafting is a surgical technique used for treating stable vitiligo. It involves transplanting tiny skin grafts (1-2 mm in diameter) from a pigmented donor area (usually the thigh or buttocks) to the vitiligo-affected depigmented area.
These micro grafts contain melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells) which, once implanted, begin repopulating the white patches and restore natural skin color over time.
Unlike traditional skin grafting techniques that involve larger sections of skin and may result in scarring or color mismatch, Micro Punch Grafting is precise, cosmetically appealing, and ideal for small to moderate vitiligo patches—especially on sensitive areas like the lips, face, hands, and fingers.
How Does the Procedure Work?
Step-by-Step Overview:
- Evaluation and Patch Test:
A dermatologist will first assess if the vitiligo is stable—meaning there is no new patch development or expansion in the last 6–12 months. A test grafting may be done to ensure pigment response. - Donor Site Selection:
A normally pigmented area such as the inner thigh or buttock is chosen as the donor site. - Local Anesthesia:
The donor and recipient areas are numbed using local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. - Punch Extraction:
Using a small punch tool (1–2 mm in diameter), mini grafts are harvested from the donor area. - Punch Implantation:
Tiny holes are made in the vitiligo-affected area, and the grafts are carefully placed into these holes using fine instruments. - Dressing and Recovery:
Both the donor and recipient areas are dressed to protect the grafts. Healing begins immediately, and patients are usually advised to rest for a couple of days. - Follow-up & Phototherapy:
In some cases, narrow-band UVB or excimer light therapy may be prescribed post-surgery to stimulate pigment spread and improve results.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Micro Punch Grafting?
Micro Punch Grafting is suitable for patients with:
✅ Stable vitiligo (no new patches or progression in the past 6–12 months)
✅ Localized or segmental vitiligo
✅ Vitiligo resistant to medical treatment
✅ Cosmetically sensitive areas like lips, eyelids, fingertips, and face
✅ A desire for permanent repigmentation
This procedure is not suitable for those with active vitiligo, keloid-prone skin, or bleeding/clotting disorders.
Benefits of Micro Punch Grafting
✔️ Minimally invasive: Small grafts mean faster healing, less discomfort, and minimal risk of scarring
✔️ Effective for difficult areas: Especially beneficial for lips, eyelids, fingertips, and genitals
✔️ Natural-looking results: The pigment spreads gradually and blends well with surrounding skin
✔️ Permanent repigmentation: Once melanocytes are accepted, results are long-lasting
✔️ Safe with minimal side effects: No systemic medications are required
Results and Recovery
Healing Time:
- Dressing is usually removed after 5–7 days.
- Mild redness or swelling may be seen, which resolves within a week.
- New pigmentation begins to appear in 4–6 weeks and continues to improve over the next 3–6 months.
Expected Outcome:
- Most patients observe 50–100% repigmentation in the treated area.
- Results depend on the location, depth of pigmentation loss, and post-operative care.
- Areas like the lips and face respond more quickly and effectively.
Risks and Side Effects
While generally safe, like any procedure, Micro Punch Grafting may carry some risks, such as:
- Mild pain or discomfort at the donor site
- Temporary hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
- Infection (rare if aftercare is followed properly)
- Color mismatch if grafts don’t take properly
All of these can be minimized by choosing an experienced dermatologist and following proper aftercare.
Why Choose Dr. Aishwarya Patil Pethe for Vitiligo Treatment?
At Chetna Multispeciality Hospital, Dr. Aishwarya Patil Pethe, an expert Dermatologist, offers comprehensive vitiligo management with both medical and surgical treatments including Micro Punch Grafting.
Her personalized approach ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their skin type, extent of vitiligo, and expectations.
With advanced equipment, sterile protocols, and years of experience, you’re in safe hands for your skin transformation.
FAQs on Micro Punch Grafting
1. Is the procedure painful?
No, it’s done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
2. Will the pigmentation come back permanently?
Yes, in stable vitiligo, pigmentation from grafted melanocytes is long-lasting.
3. Are multiple sessions needed?
It depends on the size and number of patches. Some may require multiple sittings for large or multiple areas.
4. Can I go to work after surgery?
Yes, light work can be resumed in 2–3 days. Avoid strenuous activity for about a week.
5. Is there any special aftercare?
Yes. Protect the area from sun exposure, follow dressing instructions, and attend follow-up visits for best results.
