Transform Dry Eye Management with the Lumenis Portfolio

Dry eye shows up in my exam room daily, often in more than half the patients I see. Symptoms vary in severity, and because it’s a multifactorial disease—inflammation, clogged glands, droopy eyelids, and incomplete blinking can all play a role—there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing it. Effective management requires targeting the root causes, not just masking symptoms.

I’ve had patients who were frustrated by the same cycle of treatments: drops, plugs, and hot compresses—often with minimal results. I’ve invested in advanced in-office technologies from Lumenis—OptiLIGHT, OptiPLUS, and OptiLIFT—that allow me to treat inflammation, restore meibomian gland function, and tighten and tone the lower eyelids when needed. It’s a comprehensive approach that’s helped improve comfort and outcomes for my patients.

Why I Chose OptiLIGHT

My introduction to Lumenis began with OptiLIGHT—initially for my own dry eye. As a woman going through perimenopause, I’ve experienced firsthand how erratic hormone fluctuations can significantly increase the risk of dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Over the past several years, as my symptoms worsened, I turned to traditional, over-the-counter treatments, but the relief was minimal and frustratingly short-lived. I’ve always been committed to finding better solutions, both for myself and for my patients, to ease the ongoing burden of managing dry eye. That search led me to intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.

During my extensive research, I kept coming back to OptiLIGHT, the first and only FDA-approved IPL device for the management of dry eye disease (DED) due to meibomian gland dysfunction.¹ It targets inflammation—one of the key underlying factors of MGD—and has been proven to improve tear breakup time, meibum quality, and meibomian gland expression.^2,3 The combination of FDA approval, peer-reviewed studies, and positive feedback from other doctors gave me confidence in the decision to bring this technology into my practice.

Since introducing OptiLIGHT, we’ve seen a reduction in dry eye symptoms for many patients. During exams, I explain that dry eye is an inflammatory condition, and that OptiLIGHT uses light-based therapy to address the underlying cause and help restore meibomian gland morphology and functionality²—not just relieve symptoms.

Treatment typically includes four sessions, spaced about a month apart, with an occasional fifth treatment for more severe cases. While we usually fit dry eye patients into our daily schedule, I also reserve a half-day each week just for IPL treatments to ensure consistency and give patients the time they need.

I also invested in the photofacial upgrade for OptiLIGHT and offer it as part of a package alongside the dry eye treatment. When we include the facial component, patients not only report relief from dry eye symptoms—they often notice a visible difference in skin appearance as well.

Beyond the benefits I’ve seen in my patients, my own experience has reinforced how effective OptiLIGHT can be. After my first session, I felt immediate relief. I now receive maintenance treatments every six months to keep my dry eye symptoms in check. It has made a meaningful difference in my daily life, allowing me to work more efficiently and live more freely without the constant distraction of dry, irritated eyes.

Patient Success with OptiLIGHT

It’s powerful to see the real impact on patients.

One woman came in saying, “I can’t live like this.” She was using drops six to eight times a day, which disrupted her daily life. After four OptiLIGHT sessions and gland expression, she felt dramatically better. She no longer had to think about her eyes constantly—and could finally live her life without discomfort.

While OptiLIGHT’s primary purpose is treating dry eye disease, patients often experience broader aesthetic and dermatological benefits—helping expand what we can provide in practice. Another patient had noticeable facial pigmentation from sun exposure, especially on the left side of her face. Dermatology hadn’t helped, so during her consultation, I set realistic expectations and explained how IPL might lighten the pigmentation and improve comfort. By her third OptiLIGHT session, she was so pleased she said she no longer needed as much makeup, which boosted her confidence.

We’ve also seen excellent results in patients with rosacea, many of whom had struggled for years with facial redness and the dry eye symptoms that often accompany it. Their success has sparked new word-of-mouth referrals.

The results speak for themselves—patients we’ve treated with OptiLIGHT have experienced improvement in their symptoms.

Enhancing Results with OptiPLUS

I added OptiPLUS radiofrequency (RF) to my practice alongside OptiLIGHT, and it’s been a valuable addition—especially for patients with meibomian gland dysfunction. The dual-frequency RF heats the tissue, making gland expression more effective. Patients often report greater symptom relief when we combine the two technologies.

In fact, pairing OptiPLUS dual-frequency RF with OptiLIGHT IPL has been shown to improve the number of expressible meibomian glands, meibum clarity, and symptoms.⁴ We typically follow a four-session treatment protocol, combining OptiPLUS with OptiLIGHT and adding meibomian gland expression (MGX) after the second or third visit. Each OptiPLUS session adds about six minutes per side and can be used on a wide range of skin types.

An added benefit of RF is the stimulation of collagen production, which can enhance skin rejuvenation.⁵ While aesthetics isn’t the primary focus, many patients are pleasantly surprised by the aesthetic improvements. As we continue to grow awareness and introduce advanced treatments like OptiLIFT, I expect interest in those benefits to increase.

Closing the Gap with OptiLIFT

OptiLIFT is the latest addition to my practice. We introduced it this spring, first testing it with friends and family, and now offering it more broadly as interest grows. The early response has been exciting—several patients saw noticeable changes after just two or three sessions, even before completing the full series of four sessions.

I chose to invest in OptiLIFT because many of my patients show signs of lower eyelid laxity, one of the first visible signs of aging. As we age, natural collagen loss, weakened muscle tone, and fluid retention can contribute to lower eyelid laxity, fine lines, and puffiness.⁶ This lower eyelid laxity also contributes to dry eye symptoms by impairing tear film distribution and blinking function.⁷

Historically, options to address lower lid laxity and impaired blinking have been limited. Surgical referrals often take a year or more, and many patients want to avoid invasive procedures. OptiLIFT helps close that gap by providing a noninvasive way to tighten and lift the periorbital muscles—restoring lower lid function and improving comfort.⁸ It utilizes Lumenis’ Dynamic Muscle Stimulation technology (DMSt) to activate facial muscles with electrical impulses, tightening and toning the periorbital muscle, resulting in improved function of the lower eyelid and blinking quality.⁸

Because OptiLIFT is still new, I often point out during exams when lower lid laxity is contributing to a patient’s symptoms. Many are relieved to learn there’s now a noninvasive option and are eager to try it. The radiofrequency component also gently heats the skin to stimulate collagen production. Together, RF and DMSt address lid tone, reduce puffiness, and smooth under-eye skin—leaving patients feeling more comfortable and confident.

A Full Portfolio Approach

Having access to the full Lumenis portfolio has transformed how I manage dry eye. It allows me to tailor treatment plans to each patient’s specific needs and opens the door to proactive conversations about in-office solutions, especially since patients often see results faster than with more traditional methods.

As I’ve gained more experience with each device, I’ve begun combining them more intentionally—pairing OptiLIGHT with OptiPLUS for MGD, or integrating OptiLIFT when lower lid laxity is a factor or when patients want aesthetic benefits along with symptom relief. This ability to customize care has led to more effective outcomes and more satisfied patients.

From a practice standpoint, it’s been a win-win. Patients feel better, outcomes are stronger, and we’ve seen steady growth in referrals and revenue.

Investing in Care that Delivers

For doctors still deciding whether to invest in in-office technologies like OptiLIGHT, OptiPLUS, or OptiLIFT, my advice is simple: do your research and do the math. Even if you’re seeing just a few dry eye patients a day, there’s real opportunity—not just to grow your practice, but to offer care that truly makes a difference.

I chose Lumenis because I wanted confidence in what I was offering. The published clinical research, FDA approval, and versatility of the devices gave me that. These systems work, and they’ve helped elevate the standard of care I can provide every day.

     * OPTILIGHT RISKS AND WARNINGS (NON-INCLUSIVE LIST):

 Indication for Use: In EU: Evaporative Dry Eye Disease (DED), also known as dry eye syndrome or lipid tear deficiency, due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). This indication is intended for Fitzpatrick skin types I-V.

 In US: Improvement of signs of Dry Eye Disease (DED) due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), also known as evaporative dry eye or lipid deficiency dry eye, in patients 22 years of age and older with moderate to severe signs and symptoms of DED due to MGD and with Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV. IPL is to be applied only to skin on the malar region of the face, from tragus to tragus including the nose (eyes should be fully covered by protective eyewear). IPL is intended to be applied as an adjunct to other modalities, such as meibomian gland expression, artificial tear lubricants and warm compresses. The indications are only relevant where they were approved by the Regulatory Authorities.

 Treatment with OptiLIGHT is contraindicated for patients with the following conditions in the Treatment area: Ocular surgery or eyelid surgery or Neuro-paralysis within 6 months prior to the first treatment; Uncontrolled eye disorders affecting the ocular surface; Pre-cancerous lesions, skin cancer or pigmented lesions; Uncontrolled infections or uncontrolled immunosuppressive diseases; Recent Ocular infections; History of cold sores or rashes in the perioral area, including: Herpes simplex 1 & 2, Systemic Lupus erythematosus and porphyria; Use of photosensitive medication and/or herbs that may cause sensitivity within 3 months prior to the first IPL session; Recent radiation therapy to the head or neck or planned radiation therapy; Recent treatment with chemotherapeutic agent or planned chemotherapy; History of migraines, seizures or epilepsy. Patients eyes must be completely occluded during the treatment. Please refer to the operator manual for a complete list of intended use, contraindications and risks.

 The following possible side effects can occur following IPL treatments: Pain/discomfort, damage to natural skin texture, change of pigmentation, scarring, excessive edema, fragile skin, bruising, burns, pruritus and xerosis.

 Please refer to the user manual or ask your doctor for a complete list of intended use, contraindications and risks.

 OPTIPLUS RISKS AND WARNINGS (NON-INCLUSIVE LIST):

 Indication for Use: (US) OptiPLUS is intended to provide topical heating to treat selected medical conditions such as for temporary relief of pain or muscle spasms and to increase local circulation on body and face. The device is also intended to provide, with a massage device, a temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite. (AU) OptiPLUS intended purpose is to develop localized heat to warm the subcutaneous tissue by means of radio frequency energy, delivered through electrodes in contact with the patient body and face. The biological effects of the OptiPLUS are linked to the increase of the local temperature of the tissues, in the different body areas. These effects bring to several clinical effects, the device indications for use are: treatment of edematous-fibrous-sclerous dermopanniculosis, treatment of skin atrophy and elastosis, treatment of microcirculation and venous insufficiency, treatment of hyperplasia and hypertrophy of adipocytes. (Canada) OptiPLUS intended purpose is to develop localized heat to warm the subcutaneous tissue by means of radio frequency energy, delivered through electrodes in contact with the patient body and face. The biological effects of the OptiPLUS are linked to the increase of the local temperature of the tissues, in the different body areas. These effects bring to several clinical effects, the device indications for use are: treatment of edematous-fibrous-sclerous dermopanniculosis, treatment of skin atrophy and elastosis, treatment of microcirculation and venous insufficiency, treatment of hyperplasia and hypertrophy of adipocytes, treatment of signs and symptoms of evaporative dry eye disease (DED), also known as dry eye syndrome or lipid tear deficiency, due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) – only when used in conjunction with Lumenis’ OptiLight (Licence No.: 109995) and meibomian gland expression (MGX).

 Treatment with OptiPLUS is contraindicated for patients with the following conditions in the treatment area: OptiPLUS is unsuitable for anyone who is pregnant, has an infection or illness, or is heat sensitive. Treatment over cuts, wounds, piercings, and tattoos must be avoided and areas with injectable fillers and toxins left for a month before treatment. Patients with a metal implant or implanted device (e.g pacemaker) must consult with a qualified physician first. If deemed suitable, the return pad must be placed far away from the implant. Local, oral, or systemic anesthetics cannot be used before or during treatment as patients need to provide regular feedback to ensure their continued comfort. Insulate patients from metal objects, especially any in direct contact (e.g. the bed). A full practitioner consultation is always advisable.

 The device is not intended to be used within the orbital rim or on the neck.
The following possible side effects can occur following RF treatments: Moderate burning sensation, burns, erythema, edema, blistering, moderate pain, purpura in exposure area, mild swelling, ear feeling clogged and jaw tightness.
Please refer to the operator manual for a complete list of intended use, contraindications, and risks.

 OptiLIFT RISKS AND WARNINGS (NON-INCLUSIVE LIST):

 Indication for use: The OptiLIFT System and its accessories are intended for dermatological procedures requiring ablation and resurfacing of the skin when using VoluDerm Energy (Microneedling Applicator). It is also intended for use in dermatologic and general surgical procedures for non-invasive treatment when using RF Energy and for muscle conditioning to stimulate healthy muscles (OptiLIFT Applicator). OptiLIFT System is not intended to be used in conjunction with therapy or treatment of medical diseases or medical conditions of any kind. OptiLIFT System is intended to be operated by a trained professional who is present to monitor treatment.

 Warnings and risks: The OptiLIFT System is contraindicated for patients with pacemakers, defibrillators, any implanted electronic device, or metal implanted in the treatment area. Side effects may include any of the following: prolonged or significant pain, damage to natural skin texture (blister, burn), excessive skin redness (erythema), excessive swelling (edema), fragile skin bruising, excessive itching, change of pigmentation (hyper-pigmentation or hypopigmentation), scarring transient skin break-out such as acne and pimples. For a complete list of contraindications and risks, please refer to the User Manual.

**The manufacturer Bios srl disclaims all liability, express or implied, and cannot be
held responsible for direct or indirect personal injury and/or property damage, occurring as
a result of incorrect procedures linked to the use of the OptiPLUS device combined with other devices that are not manufactured by Bios srl or out of the FDA/TGA approved scope. Any content of the document related to devices manufactured by third parties is not subjected to the review and the approval by Bios