Vitiligo surgery: its evolution as a definite treatment in the stable vitiligo

Abstract

Vitiligo is a common pigmentary disorder which causes immense psychosocial impact on the patients. This condition is still an enigma in terms of its pathogenesis and management. Although there are various treatment modalities, till date none of it takes care of the cause. Surgical management has evolved significantly and given a ray of hope in stable vitiligo. The main purpose is to review the various surgical modalities available along with a look on the milestones and an effort to find answers to "why, when, whom and how" of vitiligo surgery. This article is based on the review of medical literature regarding various surgical management of vitiligo and also author's experience in this particular field. In addition with this review authors tried to shed light on the factors affecting the outcome of vitiligo surgery. The outcome any surgical procedure in vitiligo depends on the proper patient selection, a proper knowledge of this condition and also about its mystery, an expertise in the procedure and a dedication towards patient care. It is certain that surgical modality will be chosen by many with the hope that it succeeds where medical modality fails. However, there is lot of scope for improvement. So more research should happen in this field so that our aim will shift from "any repigmentation" to "complete and normal repigmentation" and we can achieve a scar less healing of those "bruised souls".