An optical imaging system for interfacing with a separate examination apparatus and methods of making and using the same are disclosed. The optical imaging system can include an imaging housing including a housing enclosure and a housing receptor plate, a subject support mount, a cart including an extendable arm, an optical arrangement including an optical source, a cantilever mirror system, and the housing enclosure, and a detection optical path providing optical communication between the cantilever mirror system and an optical detector. The subject support mount allows optical illumination via at least one optical port. The extendable arm is affixed to the cart at one end and the optical arrangement at another end. The extendable arm can move from a retracted position to an extended position without contacting the subject support mount or the subject.