Micropigmentation-sometimes
referred to as "permanent make-up"-
is a technique in which minute, metabolically
inert pigment granules are implanted below the
epidermis for cosmetic and/or corrective enhancement.
This ancient Asian beautification practice has
gained popularity around the world. Micropigmentation
is used to enhance facial features like eyebrows,
lashes and lips; to improve conditions like scarring
and vitiligo (uneven pigmentation); or to reconstruct
the nipple/areola breast area.
Technique:
Typically, two treatments are needed, one or more
weeks apart. Needles penetrate the skin a few
millimeters, in what is basically a tattooing
process.
Benefits:
• No downtime and resumption of most normal
activities within 24 hours for majority of patients.
• The pigments used are made from safe,
generally non-reactive compounds approved by the
FDA.
• The process is relatively quick (for example,
an upper and lower lash line takes about 30 to
40 minutes).
• Skin returns to normal by the next day.
Swelling or redness is generally mild.
• Mild discomfort during procedure is avoided
using topical and/or local anesthesia.
• Good alternative for women with make-up
allergies (although procedure is designed to enhance
features, not replace make-up altogether).
• Pigments are individually mixed for customized
results, and designed to look natural. Results
can be seen immediately (although full end result
will be seen in about three weeks).
Other Considerations:
• Permanent procedure. Laser surgery is
required to remove pigment.
• Patients must avoid direct sunlight, refrain
from applying make-up, and wearing contact lenses
for a few days, and avoid swimming for several
weeks.
• A small number of patients may experience
allergic reaction or infection.
Scarring is possible due to practitioner error.
ASAPS recommends this procedure be performed under
medical supervision.
• Pigments may cause interference with cranial
MRI scans.
Needles inserted too deeply in the skin can cause
bleeding, spreading of pigments, and damage to
hair follicles.
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