Latisse and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

In late 2008, the drug Lumigan, originally developed to treat glaucoma, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be prescribed as an eyelash enhancer.  It seems that one of the side effects of the glaucoma drug, now called Latisse when marketed for eyelash enhancement, is eyelash growth.  According to a recent article in the Los Angeles Times, Latisse is being prescribed by dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and day spa physicians to women who want to increase the length and fullness of their lashes.

Is this a good thing?  One of the most common issues we see in our clients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is excessive focus on the appearance of their eyes, including their eyelashes.  Latisse plays right into this common BDD concern. › Continue reading

Tags: Allergan, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Body Image, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cosmetic Surgery, Dermatology, Eyelashes, Health, Latisse

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and Cosmetic Surgery

Recently, a friend suggested I read Bodies, the most recent book by Susie Orbach. I had not previously heard of this book, but even a casual reading of the synopsis on Amazon confirms what we see every day at the OCD Center of Los Angeles. Between our clients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), and the thousands (millions?) of cosmetic procedures that are basically the norm here in Los Angeles, it is painfully obvious that many people not only dislike their bodies, but are willing to undergo painful, expensive surgeries in an effort to reduce their insecurities. › Continue reading

Tags: Bodies, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cosmetic Surgery, Health, Michael Jackson, Plastic Surgery, Susie Orbach

Michael Jackson and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

Michael Jackson has died.  And predictably, reports of his various mental health issues have rapidly come to the fore.

Of course, anyone who has been paying attention knew that Jackson was troubled.  Over the past twenty-five years, his physical appearance radically changed.  The glaringly obvious alterations of his nose, chin, facial structure, and skin tone indicate that he had multiple cosmetic procedures, and suggest  that he suffered from a significant case of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).  › Continue reading

Tags: Anorexia, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Hypochondria / Health Anxiety, Insomnia, Michael Jackson