Treatment guidelineThird-Line Treatments: Surgical Methods

Treatment guideline

Surgical options for vitiligo are divided into two main categories: tissue transplantation and cell transplantation. Both approaches have similar success rates, but they differ in procedure and complexity. The primary goal of these surgeries is to restore pigment to areas lacking melanocytes by using cells from a pigmented donor site on the patient's body. Surgical methods have the added benefit of being able to treat large areas of depigmentation. While complications like infections, hematomas, or color mismatch at the donor site are rare, they can occur, along with the possibility of tissue rejection at the treated site.

In cases of segmental vitiligo, patients often see complete repigmentation within 2-3 months to a year, usually without the need for additional treatments. For non-segmental vitiligo, combining surgical intervention with UVB therapy post-operation is recommended for the best results and to ensure long-term stability of the treatment.



FAQOther Questions

  • How can I explain vitiligo to my children?

    Vitiligo can be confusing for children because it doesn’t resemble an "illness" in the typical sense. Choosing the right way to explain it depends on your child’s age and maturi...

  • Shall I take vitamin D for my vitiligo?

    Vitamin D plays a central role in the prevention of different inflammatory and chronic diseases. Consuming 1,000–4,000 IU (25–100 mcg) of vitamin D3 daily should be ideal for mo...

  • What are risks of oral and topical corticosteroids?

    Corticosteroid drugs (like hydrocortisone, and others) are often used for treating vitiligo. By mimicing the effects of hormones your body produces naturally in your adrenal gla...