Melasma or Chloasma
Melasma, also called ‘chloasma’ and ‘pregnancy mask’, is a common skin condition of adults in which brown or greyish patches of pigmentation (colour) develop, usually on the face.
Dark and Discoloured Patches
This condition indicates a darker patch of skin and can occur for example in pregnant women. Melasma or Chloasma typically occurs on the face and mostly occurs in women although men may get it too.
Typically it occurs in the cheeks, forehead, bridge of nose or on the chin although it may also appear on the neck and forearms. This condition doesn’t cause any symptoms or harm but you may be self conscious about it. Darker skin tones may be more prone to melasma.
Estrogen and progesterone sensitivity are also associated with this condition as well as stress and sun exposure as the ultraviolet rays affect the cells that control pigment ( melanocytes).
To treat melasma there are various options such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser treatment and topical creams. These procedures do not guarantee that melasma won’t come back and sometimes these treatments won’t eliminate the problem completely however good results may be obtained and there are things that you can do to minimise it returning such as wearing spf and minimising sun exposure.
Consultation
Your consultation for plastic surgery with Mr Ferrando is an important step in the process of considering and undergoing cosmetic or reconstructive procedures.
This initial meeting allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure. It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have. You will look at the “before and after” images of previous patients and get further information you need to make a decision.
Mr Ferrando will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam. He will then discuss all options suitable for you and explain each stage of the procedure or treatment. The exact procedure depends on the anatomy of the patient.
Our team believes that a well-informed, comfortable patient is one of the most important elements of the process. Whether you move forward with surgery or simply learn more, Dr Ferrando is looking forward to meeting you!
Procedure
If you decide to treat melasma, Mr Ferrando will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This means your plan will consider your skin tone, how deeply the melasma reaches into your skin, and any melasma triggers you may have. Sunlight, taking birth control pills, and even stress can trigger melasma.
The most commonly used treatments for melasma are skin lightening medications that are applied topically. These include medications such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, cysteamine, rucinol, and tranexamic acid.
Anaesthesia and length of the procedure
There are no needs for any surgical procedure. Mr Ferrando will talk you through treatment at his consultations as they will vary depending on the patient’s age, physical condition and lifestyle.
Recovery
When you follow your treatment plan, it usually takes between 3 to 12 months to see results. It may take longer if you’ve had melasma for a long time.
Risks and Side Effects
All surgeries carry certain risks and even though they are rare you should be aware of them before making your decision. Mr Ferrando will talk you through any possible risks and side effects at his consultations as they will vary depending on the patient’s anatomy, age, condition and lifestyle.
During his procedures and treatments, he does everything possible to minimise the risk of complications by practicing a meticulously detailed approach and applying his world-class training background.
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This initial contact allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure.
It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have and get further information you need to make a decision.