The eyelashes are placed in a single row on both eyelids, but they are curved to top on the top and to bottom on the bottom. Thus, the contact of the eyelashes with the cornea is prevented. There are two different eyelash diseases (deformities).

What is Done in the Treatment of Distichiasis and Trichiasis?

Distichiasis; it is the case of multiple rows of eyelashes exist. This condition can be congenital or acquired. 

Image-1: Eyelash diseases

The lashes that grow later in distichiasis do not grow (they stay rudimentary), but if they do, they need to be treated as corneal contact may occur.

Trichiasis (Inverted Eyelash)

Trichiasis; eyelashes are in a single row, but their orientations and angulations change. Thus, the eyelashes are in contact with the cornea. This is quite disturbing. Over time, the cornea deteriorates and vision decreases.

What is Done in the Treatment of Distichiasis and Trichiasis?

There are many treatment methods for both eyelashes that grow in distichiasis and twisted eyelashes in trichiasis. The aim here is to prevent corneal contact. For this purpose, options such as hot cautery, freezing, laser applications can be preferred for the removal of eyelashes (epilation) or the destruction (destruction) of eyelash roots. If there are eyelashes that contact with the cornea in a long segment, as in entropium, outward turning of the free edge of the eyelid (split surgical procedures) should be performed. The solution is very important for the patient and the physician. Because what seems small may lead to big issues. It can go as far as a corneal transplant (keratoplasty). Management of this process is very important.