A heterostructure with reduced optical losses is disclosed. The heterostructure includes a set of n-type layers; an active region that generates radiation at a peak emitted wavelength; and a set of p-type layers located adjacent to the active region. A reflective structure can be located adjacent to the set of p-type layers. A thickness of the set of p-type layers can be configured to promote constructive interference of the reflected radiation with radiation emitted by the active region in a direction toward the set of n-type layers.