What procedure is recommended for treating ectopic cilia?

The recommended procedure for treating ectopic cilia is cryotherapy with excision of the hairs. Ectopic cilia occur when hairs grow inappropriately from the upper eyelid margins and can cause significant discomfort and irritation to the cornea, leading to secondary complications such as corneal ulcers.

Cryotherapy serves to effectively destroy the abnormal hair follicles, minimizing the chance of regrowth. Combining this with the excision of the hairs ensures that the ectopic cilia are fully removed, preventing future irritation and promoting healing in the affected area. This two-pronged approach is particularly effective in addressing the condition comprehensively.

Other treatments, such as cryotherapy and hair plucking or topical ointments, may not provide a permanent solution, as simply removing the hair may not address the underlying issue of the affected follicles. Surgical drainage does not contribute to the necessary removal of the ectopic cilia and is unrelated to the treatment of this specific condition. Thus, the combination of cryotherapy with excision offers a thorough and effective means of treating ectopic cilia.