Permanent Cosmetics
Permanent makeup (also called cosmetic tattooing, micropigmentation
or dermapigmentation) can be used to enhance facial
features or to correct skin pigmentation problems. This
form of tattooing is an increasingly popular alternative
to conventional makeup. People with rushed schedules,
allergies to makeup products, skin disorders, poor eyesight
or poor hand-eye coordination, may find this procedure
to be a great help.
If you are considering permanent makeup, the following
information will provide you with a good introduction
to the procedure. For more detailed information about
how this procedure may help you, we recommend that you
consult a plastic surgeon who is board certified or
has completed a residency program that includes instruction
in this procedure.
Permanent makeup can be used to enhance certain facial
features, or to give scar tissue a more natural appearance.
Some of the most common permanent makeup procedures
include: permanent eyeliner, permanent eyebrow definition,
lip liner, and lip color. The fuller and more defined
eyebrows and lips that result from this procedure can
completely change an individual's appearance, and can
create a more youthful, put-together look. It can also
save time for those who want a new look without having
to reapply makeup daily. And it can be a big help to
people who are allergic to cosmetics, suffer from skin
disorders, or for other reasons cannot apply makeup.
How is a permanent makeup procedure
performed?
Permanent makeup is made from vegetable products that
are injected into a deep layer of the skin. Fine needles
are used to inject the pigment. These needles may be
attached to a coil machine (the machine used for most
tattoos) or a rotary machine. The needle is dipped in
pigment and then injected to insert the pigment into
the skin. As the needle penetrates the skin, a small
amount of bleeding may occur. At the end of the procedure,
the skin is washed and an antiseptic cream may be applied.
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How long does a permanent makeup
procedure take?
The length of the procedure depends on the area being
treated and the particular technique used. This procedure
generally takes an hour to complete.
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What type of anesthesia is used?
A topical numbing agent may be applied or an anesthetic
injection may be used to numb the area.
Where is the procedure performed?
Permanent makeup treatments are performed in the surgeon's
office-based surgical suite, or in an outpatient surgical
facility.
When can I return home and resume
normal activities?
The same day and normal activities may be resumed immediately.
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How do I prepare for a permanent
makeup procedure?
During the initial consultation, you and your doctor
will discuss the changes that you would like to make
in your appearance. He/she will explain the different
options available to you, the procedure itself, as well
as its risks and limitations. He/she may review your
medical history. He/she will also explain the kind of
anesthesia used, the facility where the procedure will
be performed, and costs.
Be sure to ask all the questions that you have about
the procedure. Ask to see photos of the doctor's recent
patients, before and after the procedure.
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What precautions are necessary during
recovery?
Around four to six weeks after the initial procedure,
a follow-up visit is scheduled to make any needed changes
to the pigmentation. The color of the makeup may fade
and need to be touched up on an as needed basis.
What are the possible complications
after a permanent makeup procedure?
An extremely rare complication is an allergic reaction
to the permanent makeup. No procedure is without risks;
however, the majority of complications known to be associated
with permanent make up are minor when the procedure
is performed by an experienced board certified plastic
surgeon. It is always important to be informed about
the possible complications before any procedure. Be
sure to discuss any concerns you may have with your
surgeon.
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What results can I expect after a
permanent makeup procedure?
The treated area is usually sensitive and swollen for
the first couple of days following the procedure. A
scab will form and naturally fall away as the skin heals
over the next 7-10 days. During this time, the skin
must be kept clean to avoid infection, and the doctor
may recommend that an antibiotic cream be applied to
the area. During the healing process, it is important
to avoid sunlight because the sun may have a lightening
effect on pigment in the treated area.
If you are unhappy with the results, it may be difficult
but possible to remove the makeup with dermabrasion
or laser skin resurfacing.
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Choosing the right surgeon
To obtain further information regarding ear surgery,
we advise you to consult with a qualified and experienced
board-certified plastic surgeon. Regardless of the type
of procedure you are considering, it is crucial to choose
the right surgeon for your individual goals. To receive
a complimentary consultation with a specialist in your
area, simply fill out our Online
Referral Form or call Toll
Free 800.434.6760.
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