If you are dealing with eyelashes that grow inward toward your eye, you may be experiencing irritation, discomfort, or even damage to the surface of your eye. This condition, called trichiasis, can cause redness, scratching, inflammation, and increase your risk of infection. In some cases, patients may also have a rare condition called distichiasis, where lashes grow abnormally from the openings of the meibomian glands. Both conditions can lead to similar issues and require professional treatment.
Electrocautery for eyelashes is a precise medical procedure used to permanently remove problematic lash follicles that grow inward toward the eye. During electrocautery, an ultra-fine needle connected to a specialized device delivers a controlled electrical current directly to the affected follicles. This destroys the follicle at its root, preventing regrowth while protecting the surrounding skin and tissue. This safe and targeted approach provides long-lasting relief and helps preserve overall eye health.
Your eye doctor will first perform a thorough examination to confirm that electrocautery is the right treatment for your needs. Trichiasis and distichiasis can result from chronic eyelid inflammation (such as blepharitis), eye trauma, or certain infections, so your doctor may also review your medical history. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, ask questions, and understand what the procedure involves.
In some cases, patients may require more than one session to fully address the affected follicles. Your doctor will discuss this with you and set clear expectations for your treatment plan.
Electrocautery is performed in the comfort of our office and typically takes less than an hour. Once you are seated or lying comfortably, a topical anesthetic may be applied to numb the area. Your eyelid will be gently held steady as the doctor uses a handheld epilator device equipped with an ultra-fine needle to treat the offending lash follicles.
The device delivers a controlled electrical current directly to each follicle, effectively destroying it without harming the surrounding skin. This precision is what makes electrocautery such a reliable option for permanent lash removal.
Because the treated areas are so small, there is little to no downtime following electrocautery. You may experience mild swelling or tenderness for a day or two, but these effects typically resolve quickly. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough to keep you comfortable.
Your doctor will provide specific aftercare instructions to help you heal and avoid complications. This may include avoiding rubbing your eyes and keeping the eyelids clean as they heal. The treated follicles will not regrow, which helps protect your eyes from future irritation.
Electrocautery is a simple yet highly effective solution for patients struggling with inward-growing lashes. By permanently eliminating problematic follicles, the procedure can protect the health of your eyes and restore your comfort.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of trichiasis or distichiasis, contact Volusia Eye Associates to schedule a consultation and find out if electrocautery is the right treatment for you. Visit our office in New Smyrna Beach or Edgewater, Florida. Call (386) 427-4143 or (386) 230-0300 to book an appointment today.