Adults of all ages often seek some type of help for aging eyelids. Some address heavy, sagging eyelids with blepharoplasty surgery, some with laser treatments or injectables. While each of these can be an excellent treatment option, there is always room for more. We are pleased to offer Upneeq®, an innovative non-surgical eyelid lifting treatment that is refreshing faces all around the world.
What is Upneeq?
Upneeq is a prescription eye drop that is designed to be used once a day as often as every day. In clinical studies, the FDA-approved drug achieved great results in mild, moderate, and severe cases of acquired ptosis. In these studies, participants experienced approximately 1 mm lift in the upper eyelid after their very first use. The lift that is achieved with Upneeq is subtle and also temporary. However, patients tend to be very happy with the minor lift they get from this ingenious treatment.
What is Acquired Ptosis?
Also known as acquired blepharoptosis or low-lying lids, acquired ptosis is a drop in the upper eyelid from the normal position. Sagging, ptosis, can make the eyes look smaller. Droopy or heavy eyelids can also make the entire face appear tired. There are several reasons that drooping eyelids may occur. Some people are born with them. This is referred to as congenital ptosis. More often, people start to see a change in the position of their eyelids as they get older. This type of blepharoptosis can be treated with Upneeq without any downtime or surgical risks.
How does Upneeq Work?
Upneeq is a brand name for the drug oxymetazoline hydrochloride, an ophthalmic solution, 0.1% (eye drop). It comes in single-use vials that hold enough of the solution to treat both eyes at once or just one eye. Oxymetazoline is an alpha-adrenergic agonist that targets the muscle that operates the upper eyelid, the levator palpebrae muscle. Also known as Muller's muscle or Mueller's muscle, this lifting muscle contracts to raise the eyelid and relaxes to lower it. Acquired ptosis may occur when this muscle and the overlying skin of the upper eyelid become loose due to the loss of collagen and elastin. When inserted into the eye, oxymetazoline triggers the levator palpebrae muscle to contract involuntarily, resulting in the minor lifting of the eyelid. The lifting effect lasts up to eight hours.
Is Upneeq Prescription Only?
Yes. Upneeq is a prescription-strength ophthalmic drug used for functional and cosmetic use. It is FDA-approved to work safely in qualified patients. The drug is prescription only because oxymetazoline can interact with other drugs and vice versa, some drugs may interfere with the effects of Upneeq. For this reason, the doctor must perform a thorough examination and medical history review to ensure that each patient who is interested in Upneeq can use it safely and also get the anticipated outcome. When you consult with your doctor to obtain Upneeq, it is important that you discuss all medications that you are taking. Upneeq can affect amine metabolism and blood pressure, making it contraindicated to some medications. Examples include monoamine oxidase inhibitors, used to treat some types of depression and panic disorder, cardiac glycosides, and anti-hypertensive medications.
How Long does Upneeq Take to Work?
Patients may see the results of Upneeq in as little as 15 minutes after applying the eye drops as directed. These results can last up to eight hours. It is imperative to use Upneeq only as directed. Adding more than a single eye drop may not achieve better results. In fact, the overuse of this regulated drug can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes.
What are the Side Effects of Upneeq?
The most common side effects of Upneeq eye drops include:
- Mild burning or stinging of the eye
- Blurred vision
- Watery eyes
- Mild headache
- Dizziness
- Nervousness
Serious side effects are rare, but there is a slight risk that some people may be allergic to oxymetazoline. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or face, and difficulty breathing. Some patients may also experience changes in vision, eye pain or redness, or feeling light-headed. If these side effects occur, stop using the drug and contact the doctor immediately.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about Upneeq and how it can help you look more refreshed, contact us at 754-544-9030 or send an email to Drbbaum@gmail.com. Dr. Baum has a strong reputation as a top cosmetic dermatologist who provides advanced, proven treatments. She is dedicated to personalized patient care and excellent aesthetic results.
