Ingrowing Eyelash

[IrritatingNotHelpful]

I have just been to my opticians again today for her to pluck out my ingrowing eyelashes - about 5 or 6 in one eye and 2/3 in the other. She mentioned the idea of seeing my GP to refer on to an eye hospital for potential electrolysis which sounds immensely painful!

Has anyone had this treatment please, or perhaps give me tips on how best to manage this? It is only a recent issue but has meant 3 visits in 3 months to my lovely optician.

Oddly enough, I've just had a referral refused from our local hospital for one of your patients (I'm an optometrist) as they no longer have that facility.

It's not really painful - the drop work well to numb the area.

Can you treat first how you're getting it - it's often due to chonically blocked MB, and if you can treat those you'll stop getting them

This is what ChatGPT4 said in case useful

I'm sorry to hear about your ingrowing eyelashes, known as trichiasis. It can indeed be quite bothersome and uncomfortable. Here's a little information on the treatments available and some of their implications:

1. *Electrolysis for Trichiasis*: Electrolysis is a procedure where an electric current is applied to the hair follicle to destroy its root. It's often used for permanent hair removal. For eyelashes, it's done under local anesthesia to numb the area, which helps reduce the discomfort. While the procedure itself can cause some discomfort, the goal is long-term relief from the issue.

1. *Cryotherapy*: This involves freezing the problematic eyelashes. It's another option for trichiasis and can have a similar effect to electrolysis.

1. *Surgery*: In cases where there are multiple problematic eyelashes, a surgical procedure might be recommended to change the position of the eyelid margin or to remove a section of it. This is typically a last resort if other treatments aren't effective.

1. *Temporary Solutions*: Plucking, as you've had done, offers immediate relief but is a temporary solution as the lashes usually grow back. Ointments and lubricating eye drops can also be used to reduce discomfort.

1. *Managing at Home*: Until you find a long-term solution, make sure to keep your eyes clean and lubricated. If you notice any redness, pain, or changes in vision, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as an ingrowing eyelash can scratch the cornea and cause an infection.

1. *Consultation with an Ophthalmologist*: Before undergoing any procedure, it would be beneficial to see an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) to discuss the most appropriate treatment for your situation and the potential risks and benefits.

While the idea of a procedure on your eyes might sound intimidating, remember that these treatments aim to provide long-term relief from your symptoms. It's essential to weigh the temporary discomfort of a procedure against the ongoing discomfort and inconvenience of recurrent ingrowing eyelashes.