Frequently asked questions - Eyelash Improving Service
Does this eyelash treatment really grow and improve my own eyelashes ?
Yes - there is good evidence in respected medical journals that it grows eyelashes longer, thicker, and darker.
How was the eyelash treatment discovered ?
The medication was initially used for the treatment of glaucoma. It was noticed that as a "side effect" patients were noticing thicker, darker and longer eyelashes.
How does the eyelash treatment work ?
All the hair on your body has a growth phase, followed by a resting phase, and then a falling out phase. The treatment prolongs the growth phase. It is also thought to increase the number of growing hair follicles.
Is it safe ?
If used correctly in suitable patients, the treatment has a very good safety profile. In clinical trials only mild, reversible side effects were found to be statistically significant. If you decide to proceed to an Online Consultation our Important Safety Information page will give further advice on this.
Do I need to have an eye examination ?
Yes - before the medication can be prescribed by our service, you either need to have had a normal eye examination by your own optician in the last 12 months, or by our Consultant Ophthalmologist.
I have lost all my eyelashes following chemotherapy. Can this medication help me ?
There are reports that this medication is effective in new eyelash growth following chemotherapy. A face to face consultation would be required prior to a prescription being issued.
Are there any medical alternatives ?
There are currently no fully licensed medications for the improvement of eyelashes in the U.K. The medication has good evidence for effectiveness and safety in the published scientific literature.
Does it work quickly ?
It takes time for your own eyelashes to grow, and everybody is different. In clinical trials, most people saw the maximum benefit after 4 months, but some people may see some results after 1-2 months.
If you wish an instant change to the appearance of your eyelashes for a specific event, then other alternatives should be considered such as eyelash extensions or false eyelashes. We have contacts with respected local Beauticians if you require this.
How qualified are your doctors ?
The service is led by Mr Mamun Rahman (GMC no 6048722), a fully qualified Ophthalmic Consultant, who has been prescribing the medication for glaucoma for several years and who therefore has a lot of experience with it.
How much does it cost ?
Each bottle of the medication costs £75 and lasts for 1 month. If you require a face to face consultation prior to prescription with the Consultant there is normally a one-off fee of £153. This may not be required if you have had a normal eye examination with a qualified ophthalmic optician in the last year. We have a list of reputable local opticians with whom we have contact, if you live in Glasgow or Edinburgh. Our Consultant would recommend 6 monthly eye exams for monitoring purposes while you are on the medication. These can be carried out by a qualified ophthalmic optician as well. Review appointments with our Consultant cost £48.
Are there any other treatments offered at Clinic 158 ?
Yes - we have a Consultant Dermatologist and a private General Practioner who are able to offer other treaments during face to face Consultations at Clinic 158. These include anti-wrinkle treatments, Dermal fillers, IPL hair removal, and skin tag removal. _