Can Eyelash Inversion in a 9-Year-Old Be Treated with Eyelid Surgery?

Inward-growing eyelashes?

My daughter is 9 years old and has inward-growing eyelashes.
Is it possible for her to undergo double eyelid surgery?

Miss Yang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/10/27

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

If the upper eyelashes are inverted, double eyelid surgery can be performed to improve the condition.
However, if the lower eyelashes are inverted, double eyelid surgery will not be effective.
For a 9-year-old child who can cooperate and follow instructions, local anesthesia can be used for the procedure.

Reply Date: 2008/10/27

More Info

Eyelash inversion, also known as trichiasis, occurs when the eyelashes grow inward toward the eye, potentially causing irritation, discomfort, and even damage to the cornea. In children, this condition can be particularly distressing, as it may lead to chronic eye irritation and other complications. In your case, considering your 9-year-old daughter, it is essential to approach the treatment options carefully.

Eyelid surgery, specifically a procedure to correct eyelash inversion, can be an effective treatment. However, it is crucial to differentiate between cosmetic procedures, such as double eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and functional surgeries aimed at correcting medical issues like trichiasis. Double eyelid surgery is primarily cosmetic and is not typically performed on children unless there are specific medical indications. Instead, the focus should be on addressing the underlying issue of the inverted eyelashes.

For children, the first line of treatment for eyelash inversion often involves non-surgical methods. These may include:
1. Eyelash Epilation: This is a temporary solution where the ingrown eyelashes are removed. While this does not provide a permanent fix, it can alleviate discomfort until a more definitive treatment is pursued.

2. Cryotherapy: In some cases, cryotherapy can be used to destroy the hair follicles of the problematic eyelashes, preventing them from growing back inward.

3. Electrolysis: This method involves using electrical currents to destroy the hair follicles, providing a more permanent solution than epilation.

4. Surgical Options: If non-surgical methods are ineffective and the condition is causing significant problems, surgical intervention may be warranted. Procedures such as eyelid reconstruction or tarsal rotation can reposition the eyelashes to prevent them from growing inward. These surgeries are typically performed by an ophthalmologist or a plastic surgeon specializing in eyelid surgery.

Before considering any surgical options, it is essential to consult with a pediatric ophthalmologist. They can evaluate your daughter's specific condition, assess the severity of the eyelash inversion, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. The timing of surgery is also crucial; in some cases, it may be advisable to wait until the child is older, as the eyelid and facial structures continue to develop.

In summary, while eyelid surgery can be a viable option for treating eyelash inversion in children, it is essential to explore all available non-surgical treatments first. Consulting with a specialist will ensure that you make an informed decision based on your daughter's unique needs and circumstances.

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