By Parviz Hiroshi Goshtasby, M.D., F.A.C.S., a.k.a. “Dr. Go”
The first moment of engaging someone is with eye contact. For women in our society, longer eyelashes are a hot commodity in portraying an attractive, aesthetic appearance. For centuries, women have attempted various methods to beautify their eyes and lashes, including eyebrow contouring, fake lashes, and using a variety of cosmetics, including mascara, eyeliners, and creams. There has also been an explosion of products offered by several companies over the past few years that can be administered as minimal downtime office procedures aimed to rejuvenate the face. Allergan is one such company that has a strong presence in the plastic surgery community with its extensive cosmetic injectables line, including Botox® and Juvederm®. Allergan has recently added Latisse®, a topical solution for hypotrichosis (inadequate eyelashes), to its collection of cosmetic products. Currently, Latisse® is the only FDA-approved prescription treatment for growing thicker, longer, and darker eyelashes.
Latisse®, also known as bimatoprost ophthalmic 0.03% solution, is a medication that has been used for many years by ophthalmologists to treat glaucoma. Doctors began to notice that treated patients’ eyelashes were growing fuller and longer. It did not take long for Allergan to realize its cosmetic potential. The company formulated Latisse® specifically for the aesthetic consumer market to help with hypotrichosis. Having treated many patients, I can honestly say that it does work. Latisse® takes time, commitment and dedication to the regimen to achieve maximum effect. Treatment includes a nightly application of 1-2 drops of the solution to the upper lash line with the supplied eyeliner. Results become apparent in 6-8 weeks, but the maximal effect usually requires 12-16 weeks. For the disciplined women who can stay consistent with this nightly regimen, they are rewarded with thicker, darker, and longer lashes that provide a beautiful aesthetic enhancement. Results will continue as long as the application of Latisse® is done each night.
If you think you might be a candidate for Latisse® and want to learn more about it, give our office a call to make an appointment for a consultation. The vast majority of women are pleased with the dramatic improvement in their eyelashes with Latisse®. If you wish your lashes would be fuller and longer without the hassle of mascara or fake lashes, you can grow them!
