Electrolysis treatment for trichiasis (misdirected lashes) 

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What is this information about?

This information is about an eye condition called trichiasis, also called misdirected lashes.  

It tells you how this is treated with electrolysis, what the risks of this treatment are, and what happens during and after an electrolysis session. 

Why have I been given this information?

You have been referred to our eye clinic because you have irritation from your eyelashes. This is because of an eyelash condition called trichiasis.  

This information will help you understand and prepare for treatment for trichiasis. Keep it in a safe place and share it with anyone who is looking after you. 

What is trichiasis?

This is when your lashes grow inwards, rubbing against the cornea (the outer layer of your eye). This causes irritation, discomfort, and could damage your eye. You may hear the eye doctor call this misdirected lashes.  

Your eye doctor has decided that electrolysis is the best treatment for your misdirected lashes. 

What are the symptoms of trichiasis?

• Foreign body sensation: feeling like there is something in your eye.  
• Irritation and discomfort: a feeling of annoyance and scratchiness in your eye. 
• Redness of the eye: your eye may be red and inflamed. 
• Watery eyes: your eye may water because it is irritated. 
• Sensitivity to light: discomfort and pain when exposed to bright light. 
• Eye pain: rubbing the lashes can cause pain 
• Blurred vision: your vision may become blurred, especially if the cornea is affected by constant irritation. 
• Sticky discharge can sometimes happen. 

How is trichiasis treated?

Trichiasis is treated with a procedure called electrolysis. Electrolysis stops these lashes growing by permanently destroying the hair follicle with heat.  

What are the risks of this treatment?

• Bruising around the treated area from the injection of local anaesthetic. This is very likely to happen. 
• Minor (slight) scarring of the eyelid. This is low risk. 
• Infection. This is rare and we take steps to prevent this happening. 
• Regrowth of eyelashes. Sometimes, even if you have had the treatment, an eyelash may grow back, and further treatment sessions may be needed.  
• Cornea burning and accidental contact with the eye. This is very rare. 

Please do not hesitate to ask the doctor or nurse if you have any questions or concerns about these risks. 

How many sessions of electrolysis may I need?

You will start with three treatment sessions. These sessions will be eight weeks apart. At each session, we will check if you still need electrolysis, or whether you can be discharged from the electrolysis clinic once the session is over.  

What do I need to do before coming to my appointment?

You can take you usual medication, including blood thinning tablets. 

You can eat before coming to your appointment.  

Please let the nurses know if you have a pacemaker when you see them at your appointment.  

What can I expect at my electrolysis appointment?

1. To make sure you feel comfortable, we will use local anaesthetic (numbing) eye drops and a local anaesthetic injection to numb your eyelid. 
2. A small neutral pad will be placed against your skin during treatment. This keeps you safe while we apply a small amount of electricity to heat the lash follicle.  
3. Once the eyelid is numb, a fine needle will be gently passed into the misdirected eyelash follicle. This precisely targets and destroys the cells responsible for lash growth. It prevents the eyelashes from growing back. 
4. Once the treatment is complete, the pad will be removed, and the nurse will put in the antibiotic ointment.  

The nurse will schedule an 8-week follow-up appointment for your next session at the electrolysis clinic.  

What will I take home with me after my appointment?

Once your electrolysis treatment is complete, you will be given: 

• Antibiotic ointment: you will need to apply this to the treated eye four times a day for one week. 
• Post-procedure information: detailed instructions on how to care for your eye at home. 
• Contact phone numbers: for any inquiries or concerns you may have after your appointment. 

Who can I contact for further information or advice?