In many cases, acquired ptosis is the result of natural aging as your eyelid muscles stretch and weaken over time. However, ptosis (eyelid drooping in one or both eyes) can sometimes be caused by more serious conditions, including stroke, brain aneurysm, Horner syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and eye infections. You should seek additional medical evaluation if you or your doctor suspect any of these more serious conditions.
Acquired ptosis involves the sagging of the upper eyelid, leading to a partially obstructed field of vision. People can experience mild, moderate and severe forms of acquired ptosis. Unlike congenital ptosis, which is present from birth, acquired ptosis develops later in life due to factors such as:
DEGREES OF ACQUIRED PTOSIS
Normal
Mild
Moderate
Severe
The severity of symptoms can vary but may include:
In severe cases, vision may be obstructed, making activities like reading or driving challenging. The condition can also affect appearance, creating an asymmetrical or tired look, and complicate makeup application or contact lens wear.
Proper evaluation and diagnosis are vital for detecting and understanding acquired ptosis. This process typically involves:
Discussing underlying conditions, trauma, autoimmune disorders, or neurological diseases with your healthcare provider.
Assessing eyelid position, symmetry, and movement, along with visual acuity, eye movement, and pupillary reactions.
Conducting tests like the levator function test to measure the strength of the levator muscle.
For many patients, acquired ptosis, often called "low-lying eyelid," can be managed through non-surgical and surgical options depending on severity and underlying cause.
When non-surgical options aren't effective, surgical procedures like blepharoplasty may be considered. This involves tightening the levator muscle and possibly repositioning or removing excess skin or fat.
For those with acquired ptosis, using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can alleviate dryness and discomfort. Adjusting posture, using a higher pillow while sleeping, and performing recommended eye exercises can also be beneficial.
Early detection of ptosis.
Wearing appropriate protection during risky activities.
Washing hands before touching eyes or applying makeup, and not sharing cosmetics or tools.
Ongoing research aims to better understand acquired ptosis and develop new treatments. Advancements in imaging techniques and diagnostic tools are helping during the evaluation and diagnosis process.
Patients who think they may have acquired ptosis should consult with their doctors about what treatment option(s) may be right for them.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
What is UPNEEQ?
UPNEEQ® (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution), 0.1% is a prescription eyedrop used to treat acquired blepharoptosis (low-lying lids) in adults.
What warnings and precautions are associated with UPNEEQ?
What are the most common side effects of UPNEEQ?
The most common adverse reactions with UPNEEQ (occurring in 1-5% of patients) were eye inflammation, eye redness, dry eye, blurred vision, eye pain at time of use, eye irritation, and headache.
What should my doctor know about before prescribing me UPNEEQ?
These are not all of the possible side effects of UPNEEQ. Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
To report side effects or product complaints, contact RVL Pharmaceuticals at 1-877-482-3788. You may also report side effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch.
This is a summary of the most important safety information for UPNEEQ. For more in-depth safety information, please review the full Prescribing Information for UPNEEQ.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
What is UPNEEQ?
UPNEEQ® (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution), 0.1% is a prescription eyedrop used to treat acquired blepharoptosis (low-lying lids) in adults.
What warnings and precautions are associated with UPNEEQ?
What are the most common side effects of UPNEEQ?
The most common adverse reactions with UPNEEQ (occurring in 1-5% of patients) were eye inflammation, eye redness, dry eye, blurred vision, eye pain at time of use, eye irritation, and headache.
What should my doctor know about before prescribing me UPNEEQ?
These are not all of the possible side effects of UPNEEQ. Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
To report side effects or product complaints, contact RVL Pharmaceuticals at 1-877-482-3788. You may also report side effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch.
This is a summary of the most important safety information for UPNEEQ. For more in-depth safety information, please review the full Prescribing Information for UPNEEQ.
