Where is the procedure usually performed?
Permanent cosmetics / micropigmentation are usually performed in an office setting. However permanent cosmetic services are also seen offered at cosmetology centers, tattoo salons and beauty salons.

When looking for a place to receive permanent cosmetics, make sure the specialist who performs the procedure has extensive experience in applying the cosmetics and that the specialist has your best interests in mind. Be sure and check the setting where the procedure is performed for cleanliness and professionalism.

How Much Pain is Associated with Micropigmentation?
Most patients feel a mild discomfort. Topical, or local anesthetic is used to numb the patient and minimize pain. Most patients feel a slight stinging sensation, but no actual pain.

What is the road to recovery like?
After receiving permanent cosmetics, the treated area might be swollen and tender. Most patients are usually able to return to work the next day. While recovering, patients must follow the post-op instructions, which may include placing ice and ointment over the treated area. This may also include avoiding sunlight. Following these instructions can ensure better results and reduce the possibility of complications.
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What Are the Risks and Limitations of Permanent Cosmetics?
All forms of cosmetic surgery carry some degree of risk. With permanent cosmetics, infection is the biggest possible risk. The other known risk is adverse reactions to the pigment used.

A limitation to permanent cosmetics is that they are not as permanent as one may expect. Sure, they are designed to be “permanent” just like tattoos, they do not wash away, smudge or fade quickly. However, permanent cosmetics, like tattoos, can fade over time. Follow-up treatments may be needed in a few years to maintain the results.
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What Are The Typical Costs Associated With Permanent Cosmetics?
The costs for receiving permanent cosmetics can range anywhere from $350 to $600. These fees can vary depending on the procedure used. Fees within various regions may vary depending on whether the doctor’s practice is in an urban, suburban or rural area. This fee only covers the physician’s costs, and does not include other miscellaneous costs. A comprehensive cost figure may be obtained while consulting with the physician. Make sure this figure includes any and all associated costs.

Unfortunately, most medical insurance providers do not cover cosmetic surgery procedures. However, most surgeons do offer multiple financing options.

Ten Questions Patients Receiving Permanent Cosmetics Should Ask Their Practitioner
To better educate the patient about permanent cosmetics, as well as assist in formulating realistic expectations, it is recommended that the patient look at before and after photographs, speak with previous patients, (you are always welcome to ask your doctor for referrals to previous patients and where to contact them) and get answers to the following questions:

1. Are the desired results I described realistic?
2. Where is the permanent cosmetics procedure performed and how long will it take?
3. How many visits will I need to gain satisfactory results?
4. What kind of anesthesia will the specialist use during the treatment?
5. How much do permanent cosmetics cost and do any other elements factor into that cost?
6. What is the surgeon’s level of experience in applying permanent cosmetics?
7. What percentage of patients experience complications with the permanent cosmetics?
8. What is the specialist’s policy in regards to correcting or repeating the procedure if the permanent cosmetics do not meet agreed upon goals?
9. What should I expect, post-operatively, in terms of soreness, scaring, activity level and so on?
10. Have you ever had your malpractice insurance coverage denied, revoked or suspended?

Don’t limit yourself to these questions. If there is something you do not understand about permanent cosmetics, do not hesitate asking the doctor questions.

In addition, it is important that permanent cosmetics patients relay to their surgeon information regarding any allergies and serious medical conditions they may have. Furthermore, patients should inform the surgeon about any medications they are taking.

This site provides information about plastic/cosmetic surgery and is designed to help users make decisions regarding their own treatment options. But medical information is not the same as medical advice–the application of medical treatment to a person’s specific circumstances. Although we go to great lengths to make sure our information is accurate and useful, we recommend you consult a qualified medical practitioner if you want professional assurance that our information, and your interpretation of it, is appropriate to your particular situation.