Background: Hair transplantation based on the follicular unit extraction provides a new opportunity to improve the appearance of patients with congenital sparse eyelashes. However, disparity between transplanted grafts and original eyelashes and the physiological characteristics of upper eyelid skin cause difficulties with this technique and result in low satisfaction. Removal of unsatisfactory eyelashes is indispensable for restoration of appearance and a second transplantation. Unfortunately, existing methods for hair removal have variable success rates, and hairs frequently regrow.
Objective: This article introduces an effective method to remove unsatisfactory eyelashes in patients with congenital sparse eyelashes who have undergone eyelash transplantation.
Methods: We used a new technique, which involves resection of eyelashes with a composite strip, to remove unsatisfactory eyelashes in patients who underwent eyelash transplantation. The demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were recorded. Outcomes evaluated included patient satisfaction, hair regrowth, and long-term complications.
Results: From 2017 to 2021, 10 patients (20 sides) underwent eyelash removal. All patients were highly satisfied with the outcomes. Unsatisfactory eyelashes were thoroughly removed, and none regrew during 1 year of follow-up. No complications were observed.
Conclusion: Strip composite eyelash excision is a safe and effective method for patients who have undergone unsatisfactory eyelash transplantation.
Keywords: eyelash; follicular unit extraction (FUE); removal; technique.
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