title: An experimental study to compare methods of eyelash ablation.
abstract: Epilation, electrolysis, cryotherapy, and argon laser thermal ablation were used to remove eyelashes of rabbits. Epilation and electrolysis were done in the standard fashion. Nitrous oxide cryotherapy was applied in a double rapid-freeze/slow-thaw manner for either 30 or 60 seconds. Argon laser settings were 1 W, 50-micron spot size, and durations of 0.2, 0.5, or 1.0 second. The rabbits were euthanized immediately, 24 hours, 2 weeks, or 3 months after the procedure. Epilation was followed by total regrowth of eyelashes within 2 weeks. Electrolysis showed focal destruction of follicles with variable regrowth. Cryotherapy resulted in moderate-to-severe eyelid scarring with minimal regrowth. Argon laser thermal ablation produced focal necrosis and variable follicle destruction. Argon laser thermal ablation may be a suitable alternative to electrolysis or cryotherapy in selected cases of trichiasis.
authors: Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
authors: G B
authors: GB
authors: Bartley
authors: J D
authors: JD
authors: Bullock
authors: T G
authors: TG
authors: Olsen
authors: P D
authors: PD
authors: Lutz
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003452:Cryosurgery; D004572:Electrolysis; D005140:Eyelashes / Q000601:surgery*; D006204:Hair Removal; D053685:Laser Therapy; D011817:Rabbits