Bartley, 1987

Title: An experimental study to compare methods of eyelash ablation.

Authors: Bartley GB, Bullock JD, Olsen TG, Lutz PD

Journal: Ophthalmology 1987 Oct;94(10):1286-9

PMID: 3684207

Affiliated institution: Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905

Cited in:

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.