Modified single-hair follicular unit grafting to esthetically restore eyelashes in Asians.

[BACKGROUND] Eyelashes play an important role in the perception of beauty and protection of eyeballs. The outcome of eyelash restoration varies and mainly depends on the surgeon's technique and no standard procedure exists.

[AIMS] To evaluate the effect of modified single-hair follicular unit grafting to esthetically restore eyelashes and provide a potential alternative of standard procedure.

[PATIENTS AND METHODS] A total of 34 patients with sparse or partially absent eyelashes who underwent modified procedure were included. Single-hair grafts were harvested from the donor site (post-auricular, nape, frontal hairline area). Grafts were transplanted with 23 gauge needle and fine forceps in the modified procedure. The patients were followed for a mean of 12 months after surgery.

[RESULTS] All patients were satisfied with the result 12 months after the surgery. An average of 46.5 grafts (34-68) were transplanted in each upper eyelid. The mean graft survival rate after 1 year was 87.2% (84%-92%). Of the 34 patients, three patients received a second session to achieve a denser appearance. No significant complication as trichiasis, infection, scarring, or eyeball injury occurred.

[CONCLUSION] This modified single-hair follicular unit grafting is a good alternative for esthetic eyelash restoration with good cosmetic results, relative easy maintenance, lack of complications, and long-term patient satisfaction.