An upper eyelid that begins to sit lower can make one or both eyes look tired or uneven. Depending on its position, the lid may also interfere with the upper field of vision. Upneeq® is a once-daily prescription eye drop for adults with acquired blepharoptosis, commonly called acquired ptosis.
Timeless Youth MD carries Upneeq as part of its rejuvenation services in West Des Moines. Melissa D. Young, MD, has more than 30 years of experience as a physician and surgeon and is board-certified in aesthetics through the American Academy of Procedural Medicine. She can evaluate the position of your eyelids, discuss your symptoms, and determine whether prescription drops are appropriate.
What Is Acquired Ptosis?
Ptosis occurs when the edge of the upper eyelid sits lower than expected. The term “acquired” means the change developed later in life rather than being present from birth. It can involve one eye or both.
Upneeq is approved for adults whose upper lids have begun to droop over time. It does not remove excess skin or correct every reason an eyelid may sit lower.
In some cases, ptosis is related to changes in the muscles that raise the lid. It can also be associated with an eye condition, nerve issue, prior procedure, injury, or neurological problem. A medical assessment helps determine whether the concern is appropriate for cosmetic treatment or needs further evaluation.
How Does Upneeq Work?
Oxymetazoline hydrochloride, the active ingredient, stimulates a small muscle that helps hold the upper eyelid open. This temporarily raises the lid and can make the eye appear more open.
Clinical studies found the greatest average improvement about two hours after a dose, with a measurable effect continuing for up to eight hours. The amount and duration of lift vary from person to person.
Because the effect is temporary, the drops must be used daily as directed. They do not permanently change the muscles, skin, or structure around the eye.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Upneeq may be an option if your upper eyelids began sitting lower in adulthood and you prefer a nonsurgical treatment. Dr. Young will examine whether the change comes from ptosis, excess skin, facial asymmetry, or another condition.
Before beginning treatment, tell her about:
- Heart or blood pressure conditions
- Reduced blood flow to the heart or brain
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Glaucoma or eye pressure concerns
- Prescription or over-the-counter eye drops
- Antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and other drugs
- Previous eye surgery, trauma, or sudden changes in lid position
Seek prompt medical care if a suddenly drooping eyelid appears with vision changes, facial weakness, severe headache, or other neurological symptoms. These signs should not be treated as a cosmetic issue.
How Do You Use Upneeq?
Place one drop in each affected eye once a day, following Dr. Young’s instructions. Each container is made for a single use and should be discarded after the dose, even if some solution remains.
Remove contact lenses beforehand and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in. When using another prescription or over-the-counter eye drop, separate the medications by at least 15 minutes.
Avoid touching the container tip to your eye, eyelid, fingers, or another surface. This helps prevent contamination.
Are There Side Effects?
Possible side effects include:
- Redness or inflammation
- Dryness
- Blurred vision
- Irritation or discomfort
- Headache
Let our office know if a reaction continues or becomes bothersome.
Eye pain, marked redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light can be signs of acute angle-closure glaucoma and require immediate medical attention. Patients with cardiovascular or blood pressure conditions should also report any new or worsening symptoms.
Why Choose Timeless Youth MD for Upneeq in West Des Moines?
Before prescribing Upneeq, Dr. Young evaluates your eyelid position, symptoms, medications, and health history. Her medical and surgical background helps her distinguish ptosis from excess skin, lash concerns, and other changes around the eyes.
Dr. Young has worked in aesthetic medicine since 2019. She explains how to use the drops, what results you might notice, and which symptoms need further medical attention. When another specialist should evaluate the concern, she can advise you on the appropriate next step.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
No. The medication temporarily raises an upper lid affected by acquired ptosis. It does not remove excess skin, reposition fat, or permanently alter eyelid anatomy.
Some patients notice a change after using the drop. In clinical studies, the greatest average measured lift occurred about two hours after application.
A measurable improvement continued for up to eight hours in clinical studies. Your results and how long they remain visible can vary.
The prescription can be used in one or both affected eyes. Follow Dr. Young’s directions rather than changing the dose on your own.
No. Upneeq raises the position of a low upper eyelid. Latisse eyelash treatment encourages the upper lashes to grow longer, thicker, and darker.
Skip the missed dose and return to your usual schedule the next day. Do not use extra drops unless Dr. Young tells you to do so.
Yes. Use the medication as directed and allow it to settle before applying eye makeup. Keep the container tip away from your eyelid, lashes, and skin.
Ask About Upneeq in West Des Moines
An evaluation with Dr. Young can clarify why your upper eyelid is sitting lower and whether Upneeq is appropriate for your symptoms and health history. Call Timeless Youth MD at (515) 216-0898 or contact us to ask about treatment in West Des Moines, IA.
