White Patches

Melanocyte Transplantation for Vitiligo (White Patch Treatment)

Surgical Repigmentation for Stable Vitiligo in Selected Cases

Overview

Melanocyte transplantation is an advanced surgical technique used to restore pigmentation in stable vitiligo patches by transferring pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) from normally pigmented skin to depigmented areas. It is considered when medical therapies have not produced adequate improvement and when the disease has remained stable for a sustained period.

At MAE Aesthetics, this procedure is approached as a reconstructive pigment restoration treatment, not a universal cure for vitiligo. Careful assessment of disease stability, patch behaviour, and patient suitability is essential before recommending surgery. The focus is on safe, realistic repigmentation in selected areas while maintaining long-term dermatologic oversight.

Solutions

Melanocyte transplantation for vitiligo is offered only after confirming disease stability and candidacy. At MAE Aesthetics, treatment is structured, precise, and tailored to each patient’s clinical profile.

Stability Assessment & Candidacy Evaluation

Comprehensive evaluation to confirm no new lesions or spread for an adequate period (typically 6–12 months). Patch size, location, and biological behaviour are carefully assessed before planning surgery.

Autologous Melanocyte Transplantation

Healthy pigment-producing cells are harvested from a normally pigmented donor area, processed, and transplanted onto prepared depigmented patches. This allows localised repigmentation in stable areas.

Cellular Suspension Technique

Laboratory preparation of melanocyte cell suspension ensures even distribution over the treated patch for improved pigment uptake.

Targeted Patch Treatment

Surgery is typically performed for well-defined, localised patches — particularly in cosmetically significant areas such as the face or exposed regions (case-dependent).

Adjunct Phototherapy Support

Post-procedure phototherapy may be recommended to stimulate melanocyte activation and enhance pigment spread.

Structured Follow-Up & Monitoring

Ongoing dermatologic evaluation ensures healing progression, pigment response assessment, and long-term disease stability.

Expected Outcomes

Melanocyte transplantation aims to achieve localised repigmentation in stable vitiligo patches, with outcomes varying based on site, stability, and individual healing biology.

With appropriate patient selection and follow-up care, patients may experience:

  • Partial to significant repigmentation in treated areas

  • Gradual colour blending with surrounding skin over time

  • Improved cosmetic appearance in well-defined patches

It is important to understand:

  • Repigmentation develops gradually over weeks to months

  • Colour match may not be perfectly uniform in all cases

  • Some areas may respond better than others

At MAE Aesthetics, the goal is realistic, medically guided pigment restoration — offering meaningful improvement while respecting the autoimmune nature of vitiligo.

Faq's

Is melanocyte transplantation a cure for vitiligo?
No. The procedure restores pigment in selected stable patches, but it does not cure the underlying autoimmune condition or prevent future activity elsewhere.
Who is eligible for vitiligo surgery?
Candidates must have stable vitiligo, typically with no new patches or progression for 6–12 months. A detailed stability assessment is essential before considering surgery.
How long does it take to see repigmentation?
Pigment development is gradual. Visible repigmentation usually begins over several weeks and continues to improve over months.
Will the treated area perfectly match my natural skin colour?
Colour blending improves progressively, but a perfect match cannot be guaranteed. Results depend on site, biology, and stability.
Can vitiligo return in the treated area?
If the disease remains stable, results are generally sustained. However, active autoimmune flare-ups may affect pigmentation.
Is the procedure painful?
Melanocyte transplantation is a minor surgical procedure. Mild discomfort during healing is expected but typically manageable.

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