Dear Dr Bauman,
I recently come across this new eyelash implant procedure that I am highly interested in. For over 12 years now, I have noticed that my eyelashes (mostly from my left eye) top and bottom falls out. I wasnt too concerned as they would grow back normally. However, since last summer I have noticed that the roots look very thin and weak and there seems to be no sign of growth. There are now little gaps staring to appear.
I have seen the dermatologist and they don't know exactly what it is-some say its not alopecia and some say it could be developing into alopecia. I am very careful with my make up and only use them when there is a speical occasion but now I don't even feel like going anywhere and am starting to feel very anxious. My lashes were very thick and now they look so thin.
I read on your website that this procedure is not suitable for alopecia-but am not sure if thats what I have. Just out of curiosity why isn't it? Hair implants on the scalp are being carried out with patients with alopecia?
I would greatly appreciate all your advice.
Many Thanks!
In alopecia areata of the lid or lashes, the skin actually 'fights' the follicles, causing the hairs to shut down and fall out. This may be a temporary or permanent situation. Because eyelash transplantation redistributes eyelashes into the eyelid, if the alopecia areata condition is active (or becomes active again) the transplanted follicles might be affected the same way.
There is always a chance that the alopecia might harm the transplanted follicles--even if you've had missing lashes for years. Because you describe an 'active' loss of lashes, I would highly recommend NOT having an eyelash transplant procedure. However, there are medications that can be used to help stimulate better growth from the non-affected lashes. If you would like more information on the costs of these medication and how to obtiain them, let me know. You can email me directly at doctorb@baumanmedical.com or call the office at +1 561-394-0024.
Sincerely,
Dr. B.
