Laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) surgery uses an intensely hot, precisely focused beam of light to remove or vaporize tissue and control bleeding in a wide variety of non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures. It is generally used to cut or destroy tissue that is abnormal or diseased without harming healthy, normal tissue; shrink or destroy tumors and lesions; or cauterize (seal) blood vessels to prevent excessive bleeding.

Because some lasers can temporarily or permanently discolor the skin of Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics, a dark-skinned patient should make sure that his surgeon has successfully performed laser procedures on people of color.

Some types of laser surgery should not be performed on pregnant women or on patients with severe cardiopulmonary disease or other serious health problems.

The first working laser was introduced in 1960. The device was initially used to treat diseases and disorders of the...