In reality, there are two types of medical lasers: high power and low power. High power lasers are used to cut through tissue, burn or vaporize tissue. High power lasers are also known as hot lasers, surgical lasers, or Class IV lasers. These lasers emit more than 2,000 mw of power and are potentially dangerous. These lasers, for example, are used during arthroscopic knee surgery.
We do not use hot lasers or Class IV lasers in our office because these lasers have the potential to burn you.
Hot lasers should not be confused with low power lasers or cold lasers. In addition, don’t be confused by the term low power. Low-power does not mean that they are ineffective or not as powerful as hot lasers. On the contrary, it simply means that they operate at a power that does not have the potential to harm the tissue. Low power lasers or cold lasers can be broken down further and are classified as Class I, II, IIIA, or IIIB lasers. Only IIIB lasers emit between 5mw and 2,000 mw of power and can stimulate tissue repair and healing without burning or harming. Every IIIB laser has a different power and wavelength. It is important that the appropriate laser is used for your condition. Anything below a IIIB classification is too low, and has not been proven to penetrate below the skin’s surface. PRI+ uses only IIIB lasers.