Punch grafting is a minor surgical procedure used to treat deep acne scars, vitiligo, or non-healing wounds. It involves removing tiny skin grafts (usually from behind the ear) and transplanting them into affected areas.

Is Punch Grafting Painful?

During the Procedure:

• The area is numbed with local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure.
• You may feel slight pressure or tugging, but not pain.

After the Procedure:

• Mild discomfort, swelling, or tenderness can occur for a few days.
• Pain is usually minimal and manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol.
• Some redness and scabbing may occur as the skin heals.

Pain Management & Recovery:

• Follow post-care instructions given by your doctor.
• Avoid touching or scratching the treated area.
• Use prescribed antibiotic creams to prevent infection.
• Expect full healing in 1-2 weeks, with gradual improvement in skin texture over months.

Overall, punch grafting is not considered very painful, especially compared to deeper surgical procedures. If you have a low pain tolerance, you can discuss numbing options with your dermatologist.