The length of a person’s eyelashes is largely determined by genetics. However, long and prominent lash hairs are a highly desired characteristic of feminine beauty. In fact, this is a timeless and universal standard. Lashes help the eyes stand out. They also add definition as well. Eyelash transplant procedures make it very attainable for women to actually have the lash lengths that they truly want.

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Eyelash Perm*

Typical Options For Enhancing Eyelashes

Eyeliners and mascara are relied upon to help create the effect of long eyelashes and a dark, well defined lash line.

If cosmetics are not enough, false eyelashes are often used to produce this effect. This requires adhesive which can be applied to the edge of the strip and then affixed to the lash line. Some make up artists will use a single strip. For a more dramatic effect, multiple strips can be used, one on top of the other. In other cases, longer tufts of false eyelash hairs can be glued onto various intervals of the lashes.

Since the daily application of false eyelashes is not feasible for most people, lash extensions have become available. This requires the professional application of individual eyelash fibers to a person’s real hairs. The effects are not permanent and require regular salon visits. Each session can cost between $200-$300. Also there are risks associated with this practice. The adhesive can cause inflammation, allergies and other adverse reactions. Furthermore, some people may find that wearing extensions cause them to lose even more eyelash hairs.

Another way to achieve longer lash lengths is through a prescription solution called Latisse. Latisse was originally developed for glaucoma patients. But researchers noticed that many of these individuals grew longer lash hairs. The active ingredient, bimotoprost was then isolated to create a new product now known as Latisse. Latisse works by extending the window of time needed for the lash hairs to grow. Results need to be maintained through constant and regular applications.

How Eyelash Transplant Surgery Is Performed

Eyelash transplant procedures require the use of follicles taken from other areas. Conventionally, grafts have been derived from the back of the head through strip techniques. This means that a sliver of skin from the scalp is excised with a blade. And this serves as a source of follicles which are then implanted into the lash line.

However, here at Fine Touch Dermatology, Dr. Umar extracts nape hairs which more closely resembles real lashes. He designed his own Advanced Follicular Unit Extraction punch, which is a component of an overall methodology known as uGraft.  The average eyelash hair transplant requires between 30-40 follicles.

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Fine Touch Dermatology patient before and after her eyebrow transplant*

 

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Eyelash transplant results after trimming, curling and mascara*

 

With the use of tiny punches, there is no need for patients to have a linear scar in the end. Some scarring can occur. Scar tissue is really just thick forms of collagen that is produced to heal the skin. So it is rather inevitable, even with FUE punches. However, with Dr. Umar’s uGraft devices, extraneous tissue is reduced around the edges of the wounds. This is achieved by crafting the punch edges into very precise shapes. Healing in the nape occurs without any visible signs of scarring.

Also, since the nape follicles grow at different angles from head hair, uGraft has also been engineered to safely extract these grafts. The action of the punch edge and gentle pulling mechanisms help to separate nape follicles from surrounding tissue. This helps ensure their survival.

Once the grafts are harvested, they are inserted into carefully prepared slits inserted in the lash line.

Local anesthetics and the occasional use of sedatives help to maximize the comfort level of the surgery. The patient is awake during their procedure.

What Happens After the Eyelash Transplant Surgery?

Within the first week after the eyelash transplantation, crust will form around each of the inserted lash hairs. These will drop away, leaving the lids looking rather pink. But this usually subsides by the seventh day.

The inserted shafts can also be expected to shed within the first two weeks. This is actually a good sign which indicates the beginning of a new growth cycle which may span between six to twelve weeks.

Continued improvement can be expected to take place for up to a year after the surgery.

Hair from the inserted grafts will continue to grow at the same rate and lengths as their original location. Lashes will need to be trimmed as needed. Patients may also use either a manual eyelash curler or one that uses heat to achieve the curvature they want.

Surgery for Eyelash Transplant at Fine Touch Dermatology

Eyelash transplant procedures are offered at Fine Touch Dermatology. We offer initial consultations on a complimentary basis. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about this surgery and how it can meet the needs of individual patients. To sign up, please click the consultation link in the upper right corner. Or speak to us directly by calling us at 877-337-6424.