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MEDTECH Adding ocular aesthetic services to a practice can be a great opportunity for growth and differentiation, but it requires careful consideration.
In recent years, the aesthetic industry, especially ocular aesthetics, has grown in prominence in optometry. This development is opening new avenues for diversification and offering valuable services that go beyond traditional eye care, ultimately benefitting both patients and practitioners.
Key Points:
- The noninvasive aesthetic treatment market globally was valued at $61.2 billion in 2022, with a projected CAGR of 15.40% from 2023 to 2030.
- Many optometrists are turning towards cash-pay specialty care services like ocular aesthetics to boost revenue and broaden their clinical expertise.
- Ocular aesthetics involves cosmetic treatments that improve the appearance of the eyes and surrounding tissues.
- Adoption of procedures like Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy for treating dry eye disease marked a significant milestone in integrating ocular aesthetics into optometry.
- Patients are showing interest in exploring aesthetic treatments alongside optometry services, creating opportunities for expanding services and education about harmful chemicals in makeup and skincare.
Additional Points:
- Offering ocular aesthetics requires an investment in equipment and supplies including IPL, radiofrequency (RF), low level light therapy (LLLT), RF microneedling, and injectable neurotoxins and dermal fillers.
- Legal considerations and regulations vary by state, making it essential for optometrists to understand the rules and ensure their malpractice insurance covers potential risks associated with ocular aesthetics.
- Medical directors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and aestheticians can form an integral part of the aesthetic team.
- Other factors to consider include patients’ acceptance of cash-pay treatments, confidence in using aesthetic devices, belief in technology, and the formation of a supportive team.
Conclusion:
- The integration of ocular aesthetics into optometry practice can present an opportunity for growth and differentiation, provided that practitioners navigate the complexities with due consideration to technology, team support, and legal regulations.
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Did You Know?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, initially developed for cosmetic applications, has now gained recognition as one of the most effective treatments for dry eye disease.
