Do you suffer from low-lying lids? Are you self-conscious about your appearance because of it? If so, our eye care practice offers Upneeq, a treatment that can help treat low-lying lids. Upneeq is a minimally invasive procedure that can improve the appearance of your eyelids by lifting the upper eyelid. In addition to enhancing your appearance, Upneeq can also improve your vision. So if you're interested in looking and feeling better, schedule a consultation at our Chino Hills office today to learn more about Upneeq. We'd be happy to answer any questions you have!

What is Upneeq?

Upneeq is the only FDA-approved prescription eye drop for acquired ptosis (low-lying lids) that temporarily lifts your upper eyelids to open your eyes. Upneeq works by stimulating Muller’s muscle to contract and raise the eyelid. Each vial of Upneeq contains enough solution for the patient to treat one or both eyes; the drops are inserted once a day. Each dose of Upneeq is effective for at least 6 hours. In clinical studies, the average patient had an upper eyelid increase of 1 mm. While this increase in upper eyelid lift is not as beneficial as eyelid surgery, many patients still benefit from using Upneeq.

Who Benefits From Upneeq?

If your eyes appear tired or sleepy, you may have a condition known as blepharoptosis (otherwise known as acquired ptosis or low-lying lids). Blepharoptosis is a condition commonly developed later in life but can affect adults of all ages. This condition usually occurs when the muscles in the eyelid lose their elasticity and begin to weaken, causing the eyelid to droop. Other causes of this condition include cataract surgery, contact lens wear, or an underlying medical condition. Upneeq is a non-invasive option for those who do not want to pursue eyelid surgery. It's effective in treating mild, moderate, and severe forms of eyelid ptosis. Upneeq cannot be used if the patient is currently taking certain medications. These medications include beta-blockers, anti-hypertensive medications, cardiac glycosides, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Talk to your doctor about what medications and supplements you are taking at your consultation. Upneeq is also not for those with congenital blepharoptosis, which is the type that is present at birth. Congenital blepharoptosis may require eyelid surgery to be corrected.

Side Effects of Upneeq

The most common side effects of Upneeq were eye inflammation, eye redness, dry eye, blurred vision, eye irritation, and headache. Eye pain is also possible at the time of eye drop insertion. These side effects were present in 1–5% of patients. These drops may also cause rebound redness, which can occur with other other-the-counter eye drop medication.

Ready for Upneeq?

If you are interested in learning more about Upneeq and how it can help treat your low-lying lids, call our office today to schedule a consultation. Upneeq is the only FDA-approved prescription eye drop for acquired low-lying lids and can provide non-invasive relief. Our team of experts will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you decide if this is the right treatment option for you!

Abcs (2021, June 2). What you need to know about Upneeq, the FDA-approved "eyelid lifting" drops. American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Retrieved October 19, 2022, from https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/news/upneeq-fda-approved-eye-lifting-drops/