Abstract
Purpose: :
To establish the natural pattern of eyelash follicle distribution on the upper eyelid. The goal of this investigation is to determine the optimal pattern for follicle placement during eyelash reconstruction procedures including eyelash transplantation with the goal of obtaining the best cosmetic result.
Methods: :
This was a population-based observational study of eyelash configuration in a mixed ethnic population. High-resolution digital photographs were taken of the upper eyelid of the left eye of each participant. Our preliminary study group included 40 patients. Demographic data on these individuals was collected as well. The photographs were examined by two readers in order to establish patterns of eyelash growth.
Results: :
The preliminary results of our study found that eyelash follicles congregate in groups of three to five. This pattern was consistent among those with both sparse and dense eyelashes and was consistent across gender and ethnic groups. There are most often three rows of lashes, and the lashes are least dense nasally and more dense centrally and temporally.
Conclusions: :
These preliminary results demonstrate that eyelashes of the upper lid are arranged in a relatively consistent pattern across different ethnic groups and genders. These patterns may guide practitioners performing eyelash reconstruction procedures including eyelash transplantation.
Keywords: eyelid • anatomy