Trichiasis
Idaho Falls and Rexburg
The eyes are highly sensitive organs, and even minor disruptions to them can cause discomfort and put them at risk. In addition, these changes can have a cosmetic impact as well, adding an additional element of challenge in the lives of affected patients. For patients affected by trichiasis in Idaho Falls, Dr. Peck provides expert surgical care that corrects the problem, relieves symptoms, and restores your eyelid’s appearance.
What Is Trichiasis and What Causes It?
Trichiasis refers to a condition where the eyelashes grow inward towards the eye, irritating the eyeball. This can be caused by scarring of the eyelids from conditions such as trachoma, blepharitis, or other eyelid infections and inflammations. As the eyelid tissue is scarred, it pulls the eyelashes inward, causing significant discomfort and potential vision loss if left untreated. Fortunately, the procedure to address this condition can be quite straightforward and has an impressively high success rate.
How Is Trichiasis Treated?
The most common treatment for trichiasis is a form of eyelid surgery known as eyelid reconstruction or trichiasis surgery. During this outpatient procedure, the misdirected eyelashes are repositioned to grow outward, and scar tissue is removed to prevent recurrence. If there are other factors involved, Dr. Peck can also address these at the time of the procedure. This surgery has a high success rate for resolving trichiasis and the associated symptoms.
"I LIKE NOT ONLY TO BE LOVED, BUT ALSO TO BE TOLD I AM LOVED."
George Eliot
Dr. Cutler Peck is recognized as the region’s foremost eyelid surgery specialist.
Dr. Cutler Peck is a double board-certified plastic surgeon focused on Oculofacial
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Dr. Cutler Peck is a double board-certified plastic surgeon focused on Oculofacial
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
What Is Trichiasis Surgery Like?
We ensure that treating trichiasis is a comfortable experience for our patients, with a focus on delivering results in a stress-free environment. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and has a short recovery period with minimal discomfort. The surgery can last about one hour, though this can vary, depending on your situation. However, Dr. Peck will provide you with a more specific overview of your individual procedure plan before your surgery beings. During the procedure, Dr. Peck makes precise incisions and adjustments to the eyelid’s tissues to reposition them. Afterward, incisions are sutured with care to minimize any risk of visible scarring. Once the procedure is complete, patients can typically return home the same day.
Is There a Recovery Period?
Yes, there is a recovery period for trichiasis surgery, though it is usually relatively brief and straightforward. While healing, it is also important that patients ensure they are taking proper precautions to minimize any risks of infection and further damage. Additionally, follow-up visits with Dr. Peck may be necessary to monitor healing and check the results of the surgery. In general, patients can expect some puffiness around the eyes and some swelling with discomfort to last about one to two weeks. But this continually improves with each passing day, and you can control any discomfort with medication. Dr. Peck will provide full recovery instructions, including how long the patient should avoid physical activities and other factors.
What Are the Results?
The results of trichiasis surgery are usually positive, with the eyelashes growing outward and away from the eye. This can help restore vision in addition to reducing or eliminating associated symptoms such as irritation, redness, and watery eyes. We make every effort to ensure our patients have a successful surgery with results that match their needs and expectations for years to come.
Can Trichiasis Come Back?
Trichiasis can return if the eyelids are not adequately repaired or in cases where scarring persists after the procedure. However, this is typically preventable with a professional surgeon, proper care, and follow-up visits with Dr. Peck. We make sure to use the highest quality surgical techniques to ensure that our patients have a successful surgery and long-lasting results without recurrence of this condition.
Combining Procedures
Some patients may also seek not only to restore their eyelids but to improve their appearance. With cosmetic eyelid surgery, we provide patients with several options for enhancing the look of their eyelid and eye area. If you are having trichiasis surgery, it can be an opportune time to combine it with a cosmetic procedure to see improvements that reduce signs of aging or other aesthetic factors. Dr. Peck provides both upper and lower eyelid surgery, as well as specialized procedures for male eyelid surgery. During your consultation, you will have a chance to discuss your goals with Dr. Peck, a leading oculofacial surgeon specializing in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you have trichiasis or suspect you may be suffering from this condition, Dr. Peck and her team in Idaho Falls offer the expertise necessary to deliver a successful procedure with lasting results. Contact us today for more information or to schedule your consultation for trichiasis surgery in Idaho Falls and Rexburg. Together we can develop a plan that fits your individual needs and expectations and restores comfort and health to your eyes.