Do you have droopy or sleepy-looking eyelids? These are common signs associated with a condition known as acquired blepharoptosis or acquired ptosis.
This condition causes the eyelids to sag or droop and may result in interrupted sight, as well as reduced self-confidence. Fichte, Endl, & Elmer Eyecare is now offering a product called Upneeq developed to address this problem.
Keep reading to learn more about this condition and determine if Upneeq may be right for you!
What is Acquired Ptosis?
Acquired ptosis is a condition that causes your upper eyelids to droop or sag. If you have muscle issues or an underlying neurological problem, you may see your upper eyelids begin to droop or change in position.
Ptosis is classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Symptoms include drooping eyelids and eye fatigue. You may also find it harder to blink, or you may start experiencing watery eyes.
What Causes Acquired Ptosis?
One of the key reasons that people who are older begin developing acquired ptosis is age. There are other things that may lead to the development of ptosis, including:
- Nervous system dysfunction
- Damaged nerves
- Diabetes
- Multiple sclerosis
- Eyelid masses or tumors
- Extra eyelid skin
- Eye trauma or injury
- Genetic predisposition
How is it Diagnosed?
Make an appointment with your eye doctor if you suspect you have acquired ptosis. They’ll measure your eyelid height and assess how strong your levator muscles are.
Your ophthalmologist will also ask about your medical history and if you’ve experienced any recent physical trauma. You could have an existing medical condition that increases your likelihood of having acquired ptosis.
What are Acquired Ptosis Treatment Options?
Ptosis treatment varies based on how severely your eyelids are starting to droop. Your eye doctor may recommend a surgical procedure.
People with levator function problems may get a procedure called frontalis sling surgery. This procedure attaches the eyelid to a forehead muscle and allows for some control of the eyelid.
Some patients benefit from a partial resection of the levator to strengthen the muscle and lift the lid. Some new medications can reduce drooping.
What is Upneeq?
Upneeq is an FDA-approved eye drop made of oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution. This clear liquid can address the drooping eyelids associated with acquired ptosis.
Upneeq may make it easier to see by increasing your field of vision. It may also give you back self-confidence by making you appear more awake and alert.
If your eye doctor prescribes Upneeq, you’ll apply one drop daily to each eye. It is available in single-use containers to encourage proper optical hygiene. Dispose of the pouches immediately after use.
You can use Upneeq if you wear contact lenses. Wait to put your contacts in until 15 minutes after taking the eye drops.
Many patients that use Upneeq see almost immediate results after the first application! In clinical trials, 87.8% of patients saw some improvement, and 40.8% of patients saw at least a 50% improvement by Day 14, 2 hours after applying Upneeq.
Ready to see better, look better, and feel better, thanks to Upneeq? Contact Fichte, Endl & Elmer Eyecare in Buffalo, NY, for an appointment at 1-800-309-2020, or visit our website to learn more!
