As a common eyelid problem, trichiasis occurs when the eyelashes are misdirected and begin growing inwards towards the eye. It causes the eye to become red, irritated and sensitive, making it feel as if there is always something in it. If treated early, trichiasis does not cause lasting harm; however, if the condition is neglected, the condition can scar the cornea, impact vision and cause permanent ocular discomfort.
What Are The Causes Of Trichiasis?
In most cases, trichiasis occurs later in life and can have many different causes. The most common are the following:
Scar tissue from an injury or surgery that causes the eyelashes to grow in the wrong direction
Inflammation due to a bacterial/viral infection, burns, autoimmune diseases or conditions such as blepharitis
Simply hereditary and has been passed down through the family
Our Specialist Ingrowing Eyelash Treatment
In selected cases of misdirected lashes or when more conservative treatments have not been effective, different surgical procedures can be carried out to correct the position of the eyelid/eyelashes or to permanently eliminate the abnormal eyelashes. These is carried out by our specialist oculoplastic surgeon, Dr Sara Nunez Marquez. Dr Marquez has extensive experience in the field and will ensure a safe, effective course of treatment.
Forceps
The most common treatment for trichiasis is removal via small surgical forceps. A slit lamp will be used to see the affected eyelashes up close before they are carefully plucked out.
Electrolysis
As a long-term solution, electrolysis uses a high-frequency current to target the hair follicles and destroy them. This treatment will have to be repeated several times for maximum results.
Cryoablation
Cryoablation uses extreme cold to destroy the tissue that is causing the eyelashes to grow inwards, meaning it is best suited to those who have extensive areas of trichiasis.
Surgery
In extreme cases of trichiasis, where virtually all of the eyelashes are misdirected, surgery can be used to rotate the eyelid to its normal alignment before it is stitched in place.
Specialist Surgical Eye Treatments
See other treatments that Dr Marquez can offer at LasaDerm:
Yes, our surgeon, Dr Marquez, has been practising ophthalmology and oculoplastic surgery for NHS hospitals across England and Scotland for many years. She has the knowledge, experience and skills to diagnose a broad range of eye-related conditions.
The most common symptoms of trichiasis are redness, tearing, sensitivity to bright lights and the feeling that something is in your eye. The constant rubbing of eyelashes against your cornea can also cause abrasion and ulcers.
This will depend on the treatment you opt for. Removing the eyelashes through forceps offers temporary relief, and it is likely that they will continue to be inwards when they grow back. Electrolysis and cryoablation are longer-term, and surgery is permanent. Your doctor will always pair you with the best-suited option to your circumstances.
If you opt for surgery, only one procedure is required to treat trichiasis. Forcep removal, electrolysis and cryoablation, on the other hand, will all need more than one treatment for maximum results.
My Procedure Went Brilliantly
"LasaDerm has been fantastic from start to finish, and a special thanks to my doctor for making me feel so comfortable. She explained the whole procedure in detail and took the time to answer all of my questions in detail. My procedure went brilliantly, and I’m so pleased with my results!"
Phillip Gordon5th December 2022
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