If trichiasis is not treated for a long time, what are the consequences?

Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
Updated on January 08, 2025
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If trichiasis is not actively treated, or is left untreated for a long period of time, it can lead to inflammation of the conjunctiva. If the cornea becomes inflamed, it can severely affect vision. The occurrence of keratitis can lead to the formation of corneal ulcers and corneal perforation, which can result in blindness. Furthermore, even if the keratitis heals, it can cause varying degrees of corneal opacities such as nebula, macula, and leucoma, which also severely affect vision. Another issue is the growth of new blood vessels on the cornea, which decreases corneal transparency and affects vision. Thus, although trichiasis may seem a minor issue, the consequences of not treating it actively can be very severe.

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Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
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Is it normal to have one or two inverted eyelashes?

Having one or two eyelashes growing inwards is abnormal. Normally, eyelashes should not rub against the conjunctiva and cornea. If this occurs, do not pluck the eyelashes. Electrolysis surgery can be performed on the eyelashes, and after the surgery, the inturned lashes will not grow back, thus they will no longer affect the conjunctiva and cornea. If inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea occurs, anti-inflammatory eye drops, such as levofloxacin, and sodium hyaluronate eye drops, which protect the corneal epithelium, can be used for effective treatment. Generally, these issues are not serious and do not affect vision. However, if vision is impacted, further examination and treatment should be sought from an ophthalmologist.

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Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
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Can inverted eyelashes be plucked out?

Ingrown eyelashes should not be plucked, as this can cause the new eyelashes to grow back thicker and harder, leading to more severe damage to the conjunctiva and cornea. If there are only a few, electrolysis treatment for the eyelashes is possible. If the condition is severe, surgical treatment to correct the ingrown eyelashes is entirely feasible. During this period, using eye drops such as levofloxacin eye drops and sodium hyaluronate eye drops can be beneficial. Do not apply heat, monitor your vision, and have regular check-ups. Eat a light diet and avoid spicy and irritating foods. (Note: The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
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Can people with trichiasis undergo myopia surgery?

Generally, people with trichiasis should not undergo myopia surgery, as trichiasis primarily affects the eyeball. It causes abrasion to the cornea, affects the corneal epithelium, and can lead to neovascularization of the cornea and corneal pathology. Following the occurrence of trichiasis, surgical treatment should be considered. If there are only a few ingrown lashes, electrolysis of the eyelashes might be performed. After active treatment and once the condition has stabilized, the possibility of undergoing myopia surgery can be considered. Current options for myopia surgery include corneal laser reshaping surgery and ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery.

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Written by Tao Yuan
Ophthalmology
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Besides surgery, how can trichiasis be treated?

Patients with trichiasis can undergo electrolysis treatment for trichiasis in addition to surgical treatment to eliminate symptoms. This involves using a specially designed electric probe that enters the follicles of the misdirected eyelashes, and through the action of electric current, destroys the follicle, thereby preventing the formation of trichiasis. However, electrolysis treatment for trichiasis is only suitable for patients with a small number of misdirected eyelashes, as treating a large number of them can lead to the growth of scar tissue on the eyelid margin, causing complications such as entropion or ectropion. Patients with extensive trichiasis generally need to undergo surgery for correction and treatment.

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Written by Wang Fang
Ophthalmology
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Entropion usually falls under the ophthalmology department.

Trichiasis should be treated by an ophthalmologist. Trichiasis is an eye condition caused by the tension factors of the eyelid's soft tissue, leading to the eyelashes attaching to or poking the surface of the eyeball, causing discomfort in the eyes. Depending on the severity of the condition, the following treatments can generally be chosen: First, if it is just a few lashes, electrolysis can be performed on these eyelashes. Electrolysis can destroy the few lashes stimulating the eyeball, preventing their regrowth and thereby relieving trichiasis. Second, if there are a larger number of lashes involved, trichiasis correction surgery should be chosen, which is a surgical treatment. After the surgery, the eyelashes can be made to turn outward, no longer irritating the eyeball.