Embodiments generally relate to systems and methods for separating an emulsion in a cavity of a device such as a liquid lens device. In one embodiment, the method comprises at least one of: applying a bias voltage to electrodes in the device, causing at least one of droplet migration, flattening of large droplets, and reduced droplet surface tension; applying an oscillating actuation voltage waveform comprising an actuation frequency to the electrodes, such that fluid pumping and turbulence is created within the device cavity; and applying an oscillating excitation voltage waveform comprising an excitation frequency to the electrodes, such that the varying electric field created by the oscillating voltage causes small droplets of the first liquid to coalesce.