OptiLIFT in action: Dr. Julie McLaughlin's experience with the new device

The OptiLIFT device from Lumenis represents a significant advancement in eye care by combining radio frequency (RF) with dynamic muscle stimulation (DMSt). This dual-technology approach addresses an unmet need in ocular surface disease, particularly by improving lower lid laxity, which directly impacts blink dynamics and overall eye health.

Julie McLaughlin, OD, ABO Dipl, shares her experience with OptiLIFT, emphasizing its ease of integration into clinical practice. The treatment process is streamlined, requiring only seven minutes per eye, making it comparable in duration to standard RF treatments. It seamlessly complements OptiLight, an intense pulse light (IPL) therapy, allowing practitioners to offer a comprehensive care package. The treatment protocol is preset, enabling efficient implementation with minimal adjustments, ensuring both practitioner convenience and patient comfort. During the procedure, patients experience mild heat from the RF component and a twitching sensation from the DMSt, indicating active muscle engagement.

A key distinction between OptiLIFT and over-the-counter esthetic devices lies in its clinical focus. While aesthetic benefits such as lower lid tightening are observed, the primary intent is to enhance ocular health. Unlike general esthetic RF and microcurrent treatments, OptiLIFT is specifically designed for periocular use, backed by clinical studies, making it a safer and more effective option for eye care professionals.

The ideal candidates for OptiLIFT are not limited to older patients experiencing severe lid laxity. The technology is beneficial for individuals in their 30s and 40s who suffer from screen-related blink deficiencies, partial blinking, and meibomian gland dysfunction. Additionally, patients with conditions such as keratoconus, who frequently rub their eyes, may also benefit from this non-invasive intervention. The treatment also addresses external lagophthalmos, where incomplete eye closure at night contributes to ocular surface exposure and dryness.

Early patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with improvements reported in dry eye symptoms and notable aesthetic enhancements. Many patients express interest in maintenance treatments, reinforcing the effectiveness of OptiLIFT. This enthusiasm indicates that the device successfully bridges the gap between clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction.

In conclusion, OptiLIFT offers a transformative approach to managing ocular surface disease. By providing a non-invasive, targeted solution to lid laxity, optometrists can intervene earlier in the disease process, potentially reducing the need for surgical interventions. This innovation marks a pivotal step in dry eye management, allowing eye care providers to deliver enhanced patient outcomes with a safe, effective, and easily integrated treatment option.