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Skin grafting for Vitiligo – Does if offer permanent cure?

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When talking about treating Vitiligo, it is important to understand that the condition occurs due to abnormality of the immune mechanism that gives rise to white patches on the skin. Although, this condition has become a bit easier to manage given the developments in the field of medicine, this is a chronic disease and there is hardly any permanent cure. In short, treating Vitiligo is difficult but correcting the basic problem that is causing Vitiligo is almost impossible.

Can skin grafting help? Skin grafting is basically a surgical procedure wherein the skin from a healthy area is transplanted to the affected area (white patches). In short, the pigment is shifted from an area to the place where there is no pigment. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia.

The success ration of skin grafting for Vitiligo treatment varies from person to person. The transplant of melanocytes from one area to Vitiligo affected area helps to re-pigment the region. A thin layer of your pigmented skin near the gluteal region is taken for transplantation. The melanocytes are then grafted in the Vitiligo affected area. Following the skin grafting surgery, the patient is subjected to UV light for about a period of two months. According to a study, between 73% and 84% patients may observe almost complete repigmentation. However, the time taken for repigmentation may vary from one person to another. It is observed that patients with a static Vitiligo can actually benefit a lot from a skin grafting surgery. In such cases, chances of good repigmentation are high.

Conclusion All said and done, skin grafting certainly offers a relief from this dreaded skin disease but it does not offer a permanent cure. Managing this condition and leading a normal life becomes difficult at times as the psychological impact of this condition plays a far greater role. People with darker skin tone especially face a lot of psychological problems such as embarrassment, low self-confidence, anxiety etc. With the help of cosmetics and makeup, a person can successfully hide the white patches but it is not a permanent solution. Therefore, it is better to consult a dermatologist and discuss your concerns. This skin disease can hamper your physical appearance, but certainly not your internal health. So, accepting and moving along with the best treatment is the only option to lead a happy and healthy life.

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