Micropigmentation as an Adjuvant in Cosmetic Surgery of the Scalp

Abstract

background. Unsightly scalp scars, refractory to surgical revision, can pose a difficult therapeutic problem. Application of cosmetics for camouflage is time consuming, repetitive, expensive, and seldom satisfactory. Treatment of scalp scars with micropigmentation has never been reported. objective. To show that iron oxide micropigmentation of scalp scars is simple, safe, and effective. methods. A commercially available micropigmentation system, sterile needle assemblies, and appropriately colored iron oxide pigments were used in all procedures. Due to the varying textures of scalp scars, greater force was required in some areas to achieve proper needle penetration. Once the scar area was pigmented, the surrounding scalp was also pigmented to obtain a "feathering" effect. results. The cosmetic improvement after micropigmentation was always dramatic and all patients were pleased with the results. About 22% of the patients requested a touch-up of the micropigmentation to reinforce the residual pigment. Frontal edema was the only complication and was seen in one patient. conclusion. Micropigmentation of the scalp is a safe and effective technique for camouflaging scalp scars.A.C. Traquina, MD has indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.

Scalp Surgery: Anatomic and Biomechanical Considerations

“…For smaller wounds incorporating a small pericranial flap in the wound closure, as detailed earlier, has been found worthwhile. Scalp scars believed unsuitable for surgical revision or refractory to it are best treated by micropigmentation 20 …”

“…Scalp scars believed unsuitable for surgical revision or refractory to it are best treated by micropigmentation. 20…”

Artificial Hair Fiber Restoration in the Treatment of Scalp Scars

“…6,7 Micropigmentation is occasionally useful and worthy of consideration. 10 Artificial hair fiber implantation is performed by some physicians sometimes as an adjunct to other hair restoration techniques. [11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18] Medical literature on new artificial fibers has recently reported encouraging results and no severe complications.…”

Basic hair transplantation: 2007

“…It is also possible that rapid forceful infusion of large volumes of fluid may damage follicles and predispose to poor hair growth. The latter is speculation only (10,12).…”