An experimental study to compare methods of eyelash ablation.

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.