When an upper eyelid begins to sit lower, one eye may look smaller or your face may appear uneven or tired. Adults with acquired ptosis can ask about Upneeq® eye drops at Timeless Youth MD 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.
Why Do Upper Eyelids Begin to Sit Lower?
Ptosis occurs when one or both upper lids rest below their usual position. Aging can stretch or weaken the structures that support them, though the change may also follow eye surgery, injury, or trauma. Muscle, nerve, and other medical conditions can affect lid position as well.
A hooded appearance is not always ptosis. Excess skin may fold over the eye even when the lid itself remains in a normal position. Because Upneeq works on a small lifting muscle, it will not remove loose skin.
An exam can show whether the concern is true ptosis, excess skin, facial asymmetry, or a sign that further medical testing is needed. Seek prompt care if sudden drooping occurs with double vision, facial weakness, pupil changes, a severe headache, or other neurological symptoms.
How Can Upneeq Help?
Upneeq is FDA-approved for adults with acquired blepharoptosis. Its active ingredient, oxymetazoline hydrochloride, stimulates a small muscle that helps hold the upper lid open.
Used once daily in each affected eye, the prescription drop creates a temporary lift rather than a permanent change. Results differ from person to person based on the cause and degree of the droop.
Upneeq is available among our rejuvenation services. Before prescribing it, Dr. Young will ask about your symptoms, medications, eye health, and cardiovascular history. Possible side effects include redness, dryness, irritation, blurred vision, and headache.
How Is Upneeq Different From Other Eye-Area Treatments?
Lash thinning, expression lines, and a low upper lid can affect the same area, but they are not treated in the same way.
Latisse® eyelash treatment encourages the upper lashes to grow longer, thicker, and darker. It does not change eyelid position. Similarly, neuromodulators soften selected expression lines but are not substitutes for treating acquired ptosis.
Ask Whether Upneeq Is Right for You
Dr. Young can examine your eyelids and explain whether Upneeq is appropriate or another evaluation would be more helpful. Call Timeless Youth MD at 515-216-0898 or contact us to request an appointment in West Des Moines, IA.
