Applying some cosmetics can be
bothersome, especially if you have a physical condition that makes it difficult
(cataracts, severe arthritis, etc.) There’s help in a procedure known as
micropigmentation.
With this procedure, a trained doctor or specialist can
inject iron oxide pigment into the middle layer of your skin (the dermis) for
results that last longer than the eyeliner you have in your bathroom drawer. It
has many monikers, including “dermagraphics” or “permanent make-up.”
Who’s A Candidate For Micropigmentation?
We mentioned that anyone with physical
limitations may seek out this procedure, but anyone (male or female) can have it
done.
Do you want to improve the appearance of thin eyebrows or lips? Do you
have an uneven hairline or allergies to make-up that create a problem?
Micropigmentation may be a viable solution. It’s not going to provide a perfect
world, but it can help enhance certain features.
How Do I Find A Specialist Who
Performs This Procedure?
Do your homework. This is not school, but it is your
appearance. You should make sure to find a doctor or specialist who has
experience in this procedure.
Be warned. There are a lot of people out there
performing these services who do not have your best interests in mind. When you
visit the office, you should examine the area for cleanliness and
professionalism.
A dedicated, involved specialist should be able to answer any
and all of your questions. Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with
your doctor or specialist and that you feel open to ask anything that’s on your
mind.
You should have a consultation with your chosen doctor before the
procedure, during which time you discuss your expectations with the doctor or
specialist. At this time, he or she also will determine if you should receive
anesthesia (usually local).
During the consultation, he or she may take a
medical history. It’s important that you are completely honest. Additionally,
you should be honest for why you want micropigmentation so your doctor or
specialist understands all of your concerns. He or she will evaluate your skin
for tone, texture and complexion in order to best match your natural colors with
the proper pigment. He or she also may take photos.
How Is Micropigmentation
Done?
Typically, micropigmentation can be performed in an office setting. The
procedure will be performed with a pen-like instrument or standard tattoo gun.
Your doctor or specialist will wear medical gloves when performing the
procedure. The procedure itself will take a short amount of time, perhaps 20
minutes to a half hour at most.
If you are receiving anesthesia, you will be
required to arrive earlier in order to let the anesthesia take effect. After the
procedure, your specialist or doctor will provide you with an antiseptic to
cleanse the treated region.
QUESTION
An average adult has about ________ square feet of skin.
See Answer
What Should I Expect After the Procedure?
You will
be sent home the same day. You should expect swelling in the treated region.
Your doctor or specialist will instruct you on how often you should ice the area
and what type of ointment you can apply to the area.
If you are having the
procedure performed in your eye region, you should plan to have someone drive
you to the office and home again.You may experience tearing, which is normal.
The pigmentation typically will appear darker in the weeks following the
procedure, but will fade over time.
Follow your doctor’s instructions on what to
avoid (such as peroxide) or sunlight. Either of these can damage your new look.
After the Procedure, Contact Your Doctor Immediately If:
- You experience excessive swelling
- You develop a fever or rash
- The area feels excessively
hot or burns
Follow Up Care
Your new look requires maintenance. Some people have
to undergo two or more treatments. Make sure you understand exactly how many
treatments you will need. As the pigment fades over the years, you also may have
to undergo additional treatments to maintain the look.
Does Insurance Cover It?
No. This is an elective, cosmetic procedure that you will have to pay for on
your own.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic, Department of Plastic Surgery.
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, Sept. 2003.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2003.