Hello Upneeq! (Goodbye Droopy Eyelids)

Do you look in the mirror and see tired, heavy eyelids? Ptosis (silent ‘p’ = TOE-SIS) or blepharoptosis are the medical terms for saggy or droopy eyelids. The amount of upper eyelid involvement can be mild or severe to the point of covering part of the vision. If the eyelid obscures any portion of the pupil, the upper part of normal peripheral vision can be blocked, followed by changes to central vision. No need to fear, Upneeq^® is here!

Upneeq^® (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) is the only FDA-approved prescription eye drop indicated for the treatment of acquired blepharoptosis in adults. This temporary, non-surgical intervention provides a cosmetically beneficial result for those who might not need or want eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).

Causes of Blepharoptosis

– Aging
– Trauma or injury to the eyelid
– Prolonged use of rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses
– Eyelid swelling associated with a stye
– Tumor behind the eyeball
– Other systemic conditions: Horner syndrome, myasthenia gravis, diabetes

Age-related changes to the eyelid muscles and surrounding skin are the typical culprits for droopy eyelids. However, if you notice a sudden change in your eyelid appearance, it may be a sign of a more serious problem that should be addressed by your eye care provider.

To learn more about the specific types of ptosis, click here to read our blog on “Droopy Eyelids.”

How to Apply Upneeq^®

1. Cut open foil wrapper and remove single-use vial
2. Apply one drop of Upneeq^® in each affected eye as directed, once a day

Note:
– Vials should be thrown away after each use. Do not re-use the vials.
– If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Upneeq^® drops. You may put them back in after 15 minutes.

Upneeq^® Results

Some patients notice results as early as 15 minutes, however, most patients in clinical trials noticed a difference in 2 hours.

– 84% of patients had some level of improvement
– 74% of patients had more than a 50% improvement

In clinical studies, the average eyelid lift was 1 mm, which is usually significant in most individuals. The drop works by triggering an involuntary muscle in the eyelid to contract. In response, the eyelid elevates. Most people experience 6 to 8 hours of effectiveness from each dose.

Want to know more about Upneeq^®? Call our office to schedule a consultation.
We can’t wait to lift your spirits (and your lids!)