Subconjunctival Eyelash Removal With a 27-Gauge Needle: A Novel Minimally Invasive Technique in Five Cases

TL;DR

A new minimally invasive technique using a 27-gauge needle successfully removes subconjunctival eyelashes in an outpatient setting.

Contribution

This is the first report demonstrating rapid and effective removal of subconjunctival eyelashes using a 27-gauge needle.

Findings

The procedure was completed within one minute in all five cases with minimal bleeding.

The technique is minimally invasive and can be performed without an operating room.

It offers a practical outpatient option for managing subconjunctival eyelashes.

Abstract

Subconjunctival migration of eyelashes is an extremely rare phenomenon, and most reported cases are asymptomatic and managed conservatively. In this report, we describe five cases in which subconjunctival eyelashes were successfully and safely removed using a 27-gauge needle. Subconjunctival cilia were identified in five eyes of five female patients aged 42, 52, 53, 78, and 89 years. Under topical anesthesia with benoxinate hydrochloride and slit-lamp observation, a 27-gauge needle was used to puncture the conjunctiva beneath the eyelash, gently guiding its central portion toward the conjunctival surface, after which the eyelash was extracted using fine forceps. In all cases, the procedure was completed within one minute and was associated with minimal intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage. To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating that subconjunctival eyelashes can be rapidly and effectively removed using a 27-gauge needle. This minimally invasive and simple technique can be performed in an outpatient setting without the need for an operating room and may represent a practical and effective option for future clinical management.

Figures