Surface Ophthalmics

About Surface Ophthalmics

Surface Ophthalmics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company established in 2018, concentrating on the development and commercialization of treatments for ocular surface diseases. The company was co-founded by Kamran Hosseini and Richard Lindstrom, MD. Dr. Lindstrom, a renowned ophthalmologist and the inventor of the Klarity® delivery vehicle, serves as the Founder and Chairman. His extensive four-decade career in ophthalmology, including his role as the founder of Minnesota Eye Consultants, provides a deep well of experience in corneal, cataract, and refractive surgery that directly informs the company's direction.

The company's business model is centered on advancing its pipeline of proprietary drug candidates through clinical trials to gain FDA approval and address significant needs in the eye care market. Surface Ophthalmics targets eye care professionals and their patients who suffer from various forms of dry eye syndrome (DES) and post-surgical inflammation. A key component of their strategy involves using a patented delivery vehicle called Klarity®, designed to enhance patient comfort while protecting and rehabilitating the ocular surface. The company has successfully raised capital to fund its clinical programs, including a $25 million Series B round in 2021.

Surface Ophthalmics is advancing a portfolio of treatments for the full spectrum of dry eye syndrome, from episodic discomfort to chronic conditions. Its pipeline includes three primary candidates. SURF-100 (Mycosol) is a prescription eye drop combining mycophenolate sodium and betamethasone sodium phosphate in the Klarity vehicle for chronic dry eye disease. This formulation is designed to provide immunosuppressive effects and stimulate mucin production. SURF-201 (Betasol) is a potent corticosteroid, betamethasone 0.2%, in the Klarity vehicle, intended for treating pain and inflammation after cataract surgery. It is the first therapeutic in the U.S. to use betamethasone in a preservative-free, unit-dose solution for this indication. SURF-200, also utilizing the Klarity vehicle with a low-dose betamethasone, is being developed for episodic or acute dry eye flares. The company is also developing Kera Sol™ Tears, an over-the-counter artificial tear solution for temporary relief.