Cosmetic Procedures: Micropigmentation (Permanent Make-up)
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 or specialist before the procedure, during which time you discuss your expectations with him or her. 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.
WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic![]()
VIVELLE-DOT (estradiol transdermal system) IS AVAILABLE BY PRESCRPTION ONLY.
INDICATION
Vivelle-Dot is used after menopause to: reduce moderate to severe hot flashes; treat moderate to severe dryness, itching and burning in or around the vagina; help reduce your chances of getting osteoporosis (thin weak bones); and treat certain conditions in which a young woman's ovaries do not produce enough estrogens naturally. Vivelle-Dot 0.025 mg/day is only used to prevent osteoporosis from menopause. If you use Vivelle-Dot only to treat your dryness, itching, and burning in and around your vagina or if you use Vivelle-Dot only to prevent osteoporosis from menopause, talk with your healthcare professional about whether a different treatment or medicine without estrogens might be better for you.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Estrogens increase the chances of getting cancer of the uterus (womb). Report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away while you are taking estrogens. Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus (womb).
Do not use estrogens with or without progestins to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes. Using estrogens with or without progestins may increase your chances of getting heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, and blood clots. Using estrogens with progestins may increase your risk of dementia (decline in memory and thinking skills).
Vivelle-Dot should not be used if you have unusual vaginal bleeding; currently have or have had certain cancers, including cancer of the breast or uterus; had a stroke or heart attack in the recent past (for example, in the past year); currently have or have had blood clots; currently have or have had liver problems; or think you may be, or know that you are, pregnant.
The most common side effects that may occur with Vivelle-Dot are headache, breast tenderness, and back pain.
You and your healthcare professional should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with Vivelle-Dot.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Please see Full Prescribing Information for Vivelle-Dot.

