Recently, I had some eyelashes that were growing inward surgically removed. Is there a medical term for this problem? Also, how fast do eyelashes grow back?

J.S.

The medical term for the abnormal,inward growth of eyelashes is trichiasis. This condition can be very bothersome and even threaten vision. When eyelashes are misdirected, they can rub on the clear, outer coat of the eye (the cornea), causing irritation and pain. Chronic rubbing of the cornea can lead to scarring and/or infection.

As you mentioned, the treatment for trichiatic lashes is to have them surgically removed (epilated) by an ophthalmologist. New eyelashes grow back over the course of four to eight weeks. For people with severe trichiasis, the ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon may perform a procedure called cryoablation. This procedure freezes the hair follicles, which stops the eyelashes from regrowing.