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Healthy eyelids work like windshield wipers on a car. With every blink the eyelids gently glide over the cornea, replacing the natural layer of lubrication. The eyelashes function as a barrier, preventing debris and sweat from touching and irritating the eye.
Trichiasis occurs when eyelashes incorrectly grow toward the cornea. Previous eye infections, trauma, and congenital deformities increase the risk of developing trichiasis.
Trichiasis can cause a great deal of irritation, redness, and watery eyes.
Trichiasis is diagnosed during an eye examination, or by closely looking at the lid margin.
Lubrication with eye drops or removal of the eyelash may provide temporary relief, although the lashes frequently grow back within weeks to months. Permanent removal of one or two eyelashes can be performed with laser trichiasis. Laser trichiasis involves ablating or burning the eyelash follicle with a minor in-office procedure using the Iridex OcuLight GL Laser. This is often performed over 1-2 visits with minimal discomfort or recovery.
