Frequently Asked Questions

What is Permanent Make-Up? How Is Permanent Make-Up Applied? What To Expect When Scheduling A Permanent Make-Up session?

What is Permanent Make-Up?   Permanent make-up utilizes the technique of micropigmentation to insert pigments in the dermal layer of the skin. Permanent make-up can create eyeliner, lipliner, lip color and beauty marks. In some cases, permanent make-up can disguise scars, asymmetries or skin pigment irregularities.   The procedures used for permanent make-up are non-surgical  Because this practice is relatively unregulated, finding a qualified permanent make-up technician can be very difficult.  Choosing a technician supervised and housed under the same roof as a board certified plastic surgeon to perform your permanent make-up procedure greatly reduces a number of risks.   The delicate nature of the areas where permanent make-up is applied requires an understanding of the aesthetics of “regular” make-up.  Visualizing the outcome of a permanent makeup procedure may be easier for individuals certified by those with extensive experience in cosmetic procedures, as Dr. Morris has endorsed and supervised our make-up professionals.   Permanent makeup is made virtually painless with the use of topical anesthetics and lip blocks, although only a medical professional should administer the lip blocks.   Permanent makeup normally takes under an hour to apply, and patients can return to work the next day.   Permanent makeup generally requires two procedures to ensure proper application and longevity.  There is only mild swelling, and mild bruising is very rare.  The wonderful benefits of permanent makeup are visible 3-5 days after the procedure.   Dr. Morris and his technicians are uniquely positioned to discuss permanent makeup because of the practice's extensive background in the cosmetic procedures.     How Is Permanent Make-Up Applied?   Also known as micropigmentation, the application of permanent make-up is a tremendous time saver for today's busy woman.  It can save twenty minutes or more each morning. That's about 10 hours a month or almost 120 hours each year! The technique that makes this all possible is called micropigmentation.  While it does not necessarily completely eliminate the need for any make-up, the procedures can drastically reduce the time it takes to get ready in the morning, or before a social function.   Areas commonly treated include: eyebrows, eyeliner, lipliner and full lip color. The term “permanent” is not entirely accurate – this is how the procedure is commonly referred to.  Actually, in order to look as natural as possible, lighter, blended colors are used. The lighter the pigment, the faster it will fade. Generally, two applications approximately 3 weeks apart, yield the best results.  Our price includes this necessary touch-up procedure.   Eyeliner and lip colors have the best longevity, lasting an average of 7-10 years depending on the color used. Eyebrows typically last 2-4 years in fair skinned individuals and 4-7 years in darker skinned people, before needing a touch-up.   You should note that when properly applied, the pigments are selected to harmonize with your natural skin tones so that changing your hair color, if you choose to do this in the future, will be no problem.    What To Expect When Scheduling A Permanent Make-Up session? We use the latest in European micropigmentation technology – the PUREBEAU system. The benefit to you of this system is a marked reduction in discomfort and an increase in accuracy over many other methods of application.   A topical anesthetic cream will be used for eyeliner and eyebrow applications.  Most patients feel a sensation comparable to tweezing. For lip procedures we perform a lip block which allows the lip color to be applied painlessly.   In contrast to most of the permanent make-up clinics which are not associated with a physician’s office, we are able to provide you with a more streamlined and efficient experience.   We will write your prescription for anti-viral medication so that you don’t have the inconvenience and expense of seeing your personal physician.   Our Aesthetic Nurse Specialist who is trained in the most modern and effective technique will administer your lip block, if you are having your lips done.  This will be performed in the office immediately prior to your procedure eliminating the need to travel to another office for the block or have someone administer this important aspect of your procedure who is not properly trained.

The Plastic Surgery Institute of Mid Michigan, 900 W. Wackerly St., Midland, MI 48640

989-832-5055