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Can Latisse Be Used After Cataract Surgery?

Occasionally, a prescription drug yields beneficial side effects in addition to curing the intended condition, as is the case with Latisse, a topical eyelash-enhancement solution derived from Luminar, prescription eye drops originally intended for treating glaucoma. If you have recently had cataract surgery, consult your physician and consider the pros and cons of using Latisse, a relatively new drug whose long-term effects are unproved.

  1. What is Latisse?

    • Manufactured by Allergan, the prescription drug Latisse promotes hair growth in follicles where the serum is applied. Applied once daily to the upper lash line, it's proved to lengthen, thicken and darken lashes in most patients.

    Biomatoprost

    • Biomatoprost, the active ingredient found in Latisse, was initially intended to treat gout and glaucoma by reducing eye pressure. According to Soulcysters.com, a medical-information site, the biomatoprost compound binds to receptors in the eyelashes that are involved in the regrowth of hair follicles that grow lashes.

    What are Cataracts?

    • A cataract clouds the clear lens that covers the eye, causing a foggy appearance over the pupil. Most often, it's caused by trauma to the eye, old age or diabetes. Vision loss results in some cases.

    Cataract Treatment

    • Cataract surgery is recommended for people who are impaired by the cataract on a daily basis because of severe vision loss. Postoperative complications include increased pressure, bleeding or infection in the eye; damage or dislocation of the intraocular lens; or swelling or clouding of the cornea, according to information on the "USA Today" HealthScout website.

    Latisse After Surgery

    • Latisse requires a prescription, and many doctors believe it's wise to get an eye exam before using the product, as biomatoprost is still a relatively new drug---developed in 2001---and its long-term effects on eyes and vision are not yet known, according to an article in the December 7, 2009, edition of "The Los Angeles Times." Consult your eye doctor to determine when it's safe to use Latisse and other over-the-counter or prescription drugs.

    Related Research

    • A study in the December 2008 issue of the "Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology" on the use of biamotoprost drops before cataract surgery showed a lowered amount of intraocular eye pressure after surgery; however, the study did not take into account application of the drug after the surgery.

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