Retrospective Evaluation of Topical Bimatoprost and Iris Pigmentation Change.

BACKGROUND

Topical bimatoprost is a topical prostaglandin analog originally used to treat glaucoma and more recently used to cosmetically induce hypertrichosis of the eyelashes. Iris pigmentation change has been noted in the treatment of glaucoma but has not been assessed with the cosmetic periorbital application of bimatoprost.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate for iris pigmentation change with the long-term cosmetic use of topical bimatoprost.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A retrospective chart review in a cosmetic dermatology practice of women (N = 50) who consistently purchased topical bimatoprost over an average of 4.59 years was compared with that of age-matched non-bimatoprost patients (N = 50). A blinded evaluator assessed each patient for iris pigmentary change.

RESULTS

No iris pigmentation change was noted with the cutaneous application of bimatoprost.

CONCLUSION

The cutaneous application of bimatoprost appears to be safe with minimal risk for iris pigmentation change.