Low-lying eyelids, a medical condition known as acquired ptosis, can create a perpetually tired appearance and, in some cases, even interfere with vision. While surgery was long considered the primary solution, a revolutionary non-surgical treatment now offers a powerful alternative: UPNEEQ®.
In the video below, two leading experts—Dr. Sherly Soleiman, a nationally recognized medical aesthetics physician, and Pamela Brogardi, a celebrated celebrity makeup artist—explain how this groundbreaking, FDA-approved prescription eyedrop works. They discuss the medical realities of droopy eyelids and demonstrate why UPNEEQ® is changing the game for patients and beauty professionals alike.
This article breaks down the key insights from their conversation, credentialing Dr. Soleiman’s expertise and providing a comprehensive look at how this innovative treatment provides a safe, effective way to achieve brighter, more open eyes without surgery.
Meet the Experts: A Fusion of Medical Science and Artistic Vision
To truly appreciate the significance of this conversation, it’s essential to understand the caliber of the professionals involved.
Dr. Sherly Soleiman, M.D., is a powerhouse in the world of non-surgical aesthetics. As the founder and medical director of the Cosmetic Injectables Center Medspa, she helms a practice recognized as a Top 250 Allergan facility in the USA, placing it in the top 1% of all practices nationwide. A board-certified physician with over 25 years of medical experience, Dr. Soleiman has dedicated her career to the art and science of injectables and minimally invasive procedures. Her expertise is so sought after that she serves as a national trainer and faculty member for industry giants like Allergan and, notably, UPNEEQ®, educating other physicians and nurses on the safest and most effective techniques.
Her unique approach is informed by a formal background in sculpting, giving her an unparalleled understanding of facial anatomy and proportion. Since 2016, she has been actively involved in clinical trials, ensuring she remains at the absolute forefront of aesthetic innovation. It is this combination of deep medical knowledge, artistic sensibility, and commitment to cutting-edge technology that makes her a leading authority in the field.
Pamela Brogardi brings a complementary perspective from the world of high-fashion and entertainment. As a licensed cosmetologist and celebrity makeup artist specializing in film, television, and print, she understands the aesthetic frustrations her clients face. From her salon in Beverly Hills, she has seen firsthand how conditions like droopy eyelids can make makeup application challenging and impact a person’s self-esteem. Her practical, on-the-ground experience provides the perfect real-world context for the medical solutions Dr. Soleiman discusses.
What is Acquired Ptosis? More Than Just “Droopy Eyelids”
A central topic of their discussion is clarifying what droopy eyelids, or acquired ptosis (also known as blepharoptosis), truly are. Dr. Soleiman explains that it is a medical condition where the upper eyelid sits in a lower-than-normal position. This can occur for several reasons, most commonly due to the natural aging process, where the muscles and ligaments that hold up the eyelid stretch and weaken.
As Dr. Soleiman notes, this condition can have a significant impact. “Droopy eyelids have the impact of displaying a tired appearance on those who have them, even if they’re not tired,” she explains in the video. Pamela Brogardi echoes this, sharing that a common question from her clients is what makeup techniques can create a more “lifted” look to counteract this tired appearance.
A Revolutionary Non-Surgical Solution: UPNEEQ®
For years, the primary solution for significant ptosis was invasive surgery (blepharoplasty). However, Dr. Soleiman introduces a groundbreaking alternative: UPNEEQ® (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution), 0.1%.
UPNEEQ® is the first and only FDA-approved prescription eyedrop for the treatment of acquired ptosis in adults. This is not a cosmetic cover-up; it is a medical treatment that offers a tangible lift to the eyelid.
Key benefits of UPNEEQ® highlighted by Dr. Soleiman include:
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Non-Invasive: It is a simple eyedrop, making it a non-surgical and non-injectable treatment.
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Fast-Acting: The effects can begin to appear in as little as 15 minutes after application.
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Effective Duration: A single drop in each affected eye can provide a lift that lasts approximately six hours, making it perfect for a full workday or a special evening out.
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Broad Application: It is effective for mild, moderate, and even severe cases of acquired ptosis. In severe cases, it can significantly improve a patient’s field of vision by lifting the lid off the pupil.
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Convenience: The single-use vials are easy to carry and can be applied at home or on the go, seamlessly fitting into any daily routine.
“It’s just one drop, once a day, in each eye experiencing acquired ptosis,” Dr. Soleiman states, emphasizing the simplicity of the treatment. For Pamela Brogardi and her clients, a solution that is as easy to incorporate as a skincare step is a true game-changer.
Why a Professional Consultation is Essential
Both experts stress that while UPNEEQ® is a remarkable and convenient option, it is a prescription medication that requires a proper medical evaluation. Dr. Soleiman makes a critical point: low-lying lids can sometimes be a symptom of more serious underlying conditions, such as a stroke, brain aneurysm, Horner syndrome, or myasthenia gravis.
“It’s very important to have patients screened to make sure they have acquired ptosis before prescribing them UPNEEQ®,” she advises. A qualified healthcare provider must conduct a thorough examination and review a patient’s medical history to rule out other causes and determine if they are a suitable candidate.
Like any medication, UPNEEQ® has potential side effects, though they are generally mild. The most common reactions, occurring in 1-5% of patients, include eye inflammation, eye redness, dry eye, blurred vision, and headache. A comprehensive discussion with a provider like Dr. Soleiman will cover all potential risks and benefits, ensuring a safe and effective treatment plan.
The Intersection of Beauty and Medicine
The conversation between Dr. Soleiman and Pamela Brogardi beautifully illustrates the evolving relationship between the medical and beauty industries. What was once a purely aesthetic concern handled with makeup tricks can now be addressed with an effective, science-backed medical treatment.
UPNEEQ® empowers individuals by providing a reliable, temporary lift that makes them look and feel more refreshed and awake. It also serves as a perfect canvas for makeup artists like Pamela, allowing them to work with a more open, vibrant eye area. This synergy allows for a holistic approach to beauty, where medical innovation supports and enhances aesthetic artistry.
For anyone bothered by the appearance of droopy, tired-looking eyes, the message from these experts is clear: you have options. The first step is to seek a consultation with a trusted, highly-qualified healthcare provider like Dr. Sherly Soleiman, who can provide an accurate diagnosis and introduce you to state-of-the-art solutions. Innovations like UPNEEQ® are making it possible to achieve a brighter, more youthful look with a simple drop, proving that the future of aesthetics is not only effective but also remarkably convenient.