Learn about Lichen Planus Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Lichen Planus and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition managed by dermatologists, characterized by itchy, flat-topped, purple polygonal papules, often with a fine white lacy pattern (Wickham's striae). It can affect the skin, mucous membranes (oral, genital), hair, and nails. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks skin and mucous membrane cells. Diagnosis is typically clinical, confirmed by a skin biopsy. Treatment is not curative but focuses on controlling symptoms, reducing inflammation, and preventing complications. Management strategies include topical corticosteroids, oral medications, light therapy (phototherapy), and lifestyle modifications to manage triggers and discomfort.

Key Highlights

    Provides relief from persistent itching, pain, and discomfort associated with skin and mucosal lesions.Helps prevent potential complications like scarring, hair loss (lichen planopilaris), or oral mucosal changes.Offers a personalized treatment plan combining topical, systemic, and procedural therapies tailored to the affected site and severity.Can improve cosmetic appearance and quality of life by managing visible skin and oral lesions.Involves long-term management strategies to control flare-ups and maintain remission.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Presence of characteristic itchy, violaceous, flat-topped papules on the skin, typically on wrists, ankles, or lower back.
  • Development of painful white, lacy patches, redness, or ulcers in the mouth (oral lichen planus).
  • Involvement of genital mucosa, scalp (leading to scarring alopecia), or nails causing ridges and thinning.
  • Severe pruritus (itching) that disrupts sleep or daily activities.
  • When lesions are widespread, erosive, or not responding to initial over-the-counter treatments.
  • To obtain a definitive diagnosis via skin biopsy when clinical presentation is atypical.

How to prepare

  • Detailed medical history review, including current medications, allergies, and past skin conditions.
  • A thorough physical examination of the skin, scalp, nails, and oral/genital mucosa by the dermatologist.
  • For a biopsy: Inform the doctor of any blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) which may need to be paused.
  • No specific fasting is required for most diagnostic or treatment procedures.
  • For phototherapy: A discussion about the treatment schedule and potential side effects.
  • Patients may be advised to avoid potential irritants like certain mouthwashes, dental materials, or medications linked to lichenoid reactions.

Risks & possible complications

  • Side effects from topical steroids: Skin thinning, stretch marks, or changes in pigmentation at the application site.
  • Side effects from systemic treatments (e.g., oral corticosteroids, retinoids): Weight gain, mood changes, liver toxicity, or increased sun sensitivity.
  • With phototherapy: Risk of sunburn, premature skin aging, and a small increased risk of skin cancer with long-term use.
  • Post-biopsy risks: Minor bleeding, infection, scarring, or temporary discomfort at the site.
  • Potential for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) after lesions heal, especially in darker skin tones.
  • Chronic nature of the condition may lead to emotional distress, anxiety, or depression.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • For biopsy site: Keep the area clean and dry as per doctor's instructions; a small bandage may be needed for 1-2 days.
  • Manage symptoms with prescribed topical creams or oral medications as directed; do not stop medication abruptly.
  • Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to soothe dry skin and avoid scratching to prevent infection and scarring.
  • For oral lesions, maintain good oral hygiene with soft-bristled brushes; avoid spicy, acidic, or rough foods that can irritate.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor response to treatment and adjust the management plan as needed.
  • Implement stress-reduction techniques, as stress can be a trigger for flare-ups.
  • Use sun protection daily, as sun exposure can worsen some forms of lichen planus and is crucial when on certain medications.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (Outpatient procedure)
  • checked Expected recovery time: Varies; symptom relief in weeks, long-term management ongoing

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering lichen planus in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for lichen planus compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 16 – USD 272 0 days (Outpatient procedure) ~ Varies; symptom relief in weeks, long-term management ongoing Know More
Turkey USD 121 – USD 2,011 0 days (Outpatient procedure) ~ Varies; symptom relief in weeks, long-term management ongoing Know More

Top hospitals for Lichen Planus in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated dermatology teams and experience managing patients undergoing lichen planus.

Manipal Hospital Jaipur

  • IconJaipur, India
  • Icon55 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

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A 28-year-old software engineer from Bangalore developed sudden severe alopecia areata after workplace stress. Dr. Sugandhan S initiated combination therapy with topical corticosteroids and platelet-rich plasma injections, achieving 80% hair regrowth within 4 months with ongoing mindfulness therapy referrals.

Dermatologists for Lichen Planus

Explore experienced dermatologists who regularly perform lichen planus and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Somnath Das
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospitals Broadway

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shantini Vijayasuriar
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Millers Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Arti Sarda
  • 17 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Chanchal Bhar
  • 25 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Simantini R. Sakhardande
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Goa

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. K R Sharmatha
  • 17 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist

MediFyr Plus SIMS Hospital Vadapalani

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Piyali Chatterjee
  • 19 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Jayanta Kumar Barua
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Jaidev Yadav Nc
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Millers Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sai Lahari Rachumallu
  • 4 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Souvik Sardar
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vijender Kumar Saini
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jaipur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Chandrashekhar C. R.
  • 41 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Goa

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Jaidev Yadav
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Shouvik Ghosh
  • 16 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ritika Shanmugam
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sharanya Padma
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sk Md Amanur Rahaman
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ashwini K C
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Imran Wali
  • 26 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Available Today
February: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salt Lake

OPD-desk synced • Updated