Whether you are considering a used cosmetic laser for sale, or a new aesthetic device, the process to minimize your practice exposure to risk in elective laser services begins with researching and purchasing technology. Choosing the appropriate technology can be cumbersome, but following some simple guidelines will result in more safe and effective procedures for you, your staff and your patients.
OK, now that you own or have purchased effective technology for its intended use, how do we ensure we’re using it to maximize patient safety and efficacy? The proliferation of elective laser services in recent years has been a somewhat mixed blessing. On the one hand, when properly performed, our patients are able to receive relatively noninvasive care with results not previously available. At the same time, the postgraduate education apparatus for training and mentoring the burgeoning crop of newly minted laser providers has not kept pace. The result has been that even as patient safety has been a primary beneficiary of the recent technology boom, some patients are still receiving sub-par care.
The good news, if you are among the providers entering into this practice milieu, is that there are some straightforward steps that can be taken to mitigate and minimize your practice’s exposure to risk in elective laser services.
First, the use of antiquated technology in the current medicolegal climate simply cannot be justified. In such scenarios, if a complication occurs, and it is one that newer versions of similar technology have eliminated, it is difficult for an expert—for anyone—to help you. And you can be certain the plaintiff counsel will be fully apprised of precisely where in the technology food chain the device at the heart of the dispute lies. We do not want to be defending the decision to use a pre-Cambrian era device and all its attendant risk. Therefore, you need to ensure that your office is updating and upgrading technology as available. This can be a financial burden, but it is one worth knowing about—before embarking on new laser or energy device acquisitions.
Second, you must provide for proper and adequate training for all staff involved in the provision of care. This includes at a minimum certification of type use by the manufacturer of the device—these are usually included in the purchase agreement of a new device, but not for those transferring existing leases or pre-owned devices. Additionally, I highly recommend a minimum of annual CME specific to whichever devices are on premises. Again, this should be for all office staff involved in the delivery of care, not just the primary operator. Lists of courses are available from the manufacturer. Another good source for CME is the American Society for Lasers in Medicine and Surgery (www.ASLMS.org).
Lastly, we must be mindful of the skill set and expertise level of our own care team. We recently saw a patient treated for hair on the face. The operator stated that she had never treated deeply pigmented skin before, and then proceeded with the session. The patient developed large areas of depigmentation across both cheeks and was, it goes without saying, not pleased. In doing an “autopsy” on this case, there were several places where the chain of events leading to this bad outcome might have been interrupted. But none were more vital than the technician acknowledging aloud that she had never actually done what she then proceeded to do. A good rule of thumb in lasers is “No pioneering.” This whole mini-disaster could have been prevented if the office in question had been adequately trained either to ask for help, or in the details of management of deeply pigmented patients.
As always, a “tight” informed consent is vital. Including all reasonably anticipated risks, such as scarring, permanent color change, alopecia, blisters, pain, infection, alteration of permanent makeup or tattoos, injury to fat or nerves for cryolypolysis or other energy devices, and others is crucial. You should always include a statement absolving you of any guaranteed outcome and the language must be explicit.
If you use the above suggestions as signposts in the laser portion of your practice, you are likely to enjoy yourself as you learn and develop your skills further, while staying off the radar screen.
Which, while expanding patient treatment options and creating new practice revenue, is right where you want to be.
Jeff Richmond,
Co-Founder, Business of Aesthetics
Owner, Thrive Aesthetic Center
President, West Coast Laser
Not everyone is ready to purchase equipment outright. We understand that you may be looking at cosmetic lasers for sale to replace an existing piece of hardware and may want to trade-in your existing devices before doing so to free up some cash. MRP offers a fast, transparent and convenient way for you to do so with confidence. Take advantage of the trade-in options that we offer. (link to lasermatch)
Contact us at (435) 731-8232 with the details about the laser you want to trade, including the year, make, model, condition, and any additional details you may have. Trade-in allows you to responsibly dispose of old equipment while partially covering the cost of a replacement.
MRP offers a wide array of medical lasers for sale to satisfy patients’ demand for the most sought-after aesthetic treatments. From Q-Switched lasers and picosecond lasers for tattoo removal, pigmentation, skin toning treatments, to IPL devices for hair removal and photorejuvenation, or popular RF microneedling devices and CO2 lasers for skin tightening and rejuvenation, MRP’s ever-expanding range of new and used lasers for sale empowers practitioners to expand their treatment options and fulfill their customer's expectations. Check MRP’s on-line marketplace for the latest new and used laser equipment to find the right device for your practice.
Selling and trading your laser is done directly through us. We will evaluate every offer and determine a fair price based on the type of laser, condition, and usage. Get in touch with us at (435) 731-8232 to talk to an MRP representative about selling your used laser equipment.
Valuing any pre-owned skin laser machines for sale can be a challenge as there can be significant variability in price, condition, model, and usage. We invite everyone looking to sell to get in touch with us for an online evaluation of their equipment.
Provide us with the basic details about your laser, such as when it was made and its current condition, and we will make you an offer. You are under no obligation to accept any cash offer.
Our delivery process prioritizes security above all else. We understand how frustrating it can be to wait long periods only to experience problems upon delivery of your newly purchased device. MRP works with trusted shipping partners to ensure you receive your device timely and in mint condition.
Tracking your order couldn’t be easier. If you want to check where your order is right now, enter your last name and the email associated with your order. MRP will automatically pull up your order and provide the latest information on where your equipment is.
If you experience any problems with your delivery, get in touch with an MRP representative who can assist you with tracking your order.
Warranties are available on new and selected pre-owned aesthetic laser equipment.
Please consult with an MRP representative to find out what an MRP warranty will and won’t cover.
Aesthetic practitioners searching for high quality new or pre-owned equipment select MRP as their one-stop aesthetics marketplace. MRP's technology-driven platform provides a vertically-integrated community marketplace that helps Aesthetic Providers lower equipment and supply costs through consultative customer service and GPO-level pricing
Let us help lower your total cost of ownership with:
MRP is more than a new and pre-owned equipment marketplace. It’s a hub for professional aestheticians to come together and connect. Here’s what we offer our valuable customers:
Malfunctioning or broken equipment means lost revenue for your business. Contact the MRP team to have our service experts diagnose, resolve, and repair your lasers. Our in-house team ensures that you get back on track as soon as possible. All it takes is one phone call.
Continue your development with MRP online educational sessions. Learn new techniques, find out how to best use a new device, or learn about what’s going on in the aesthetic industry with MRP’s extensive education and training courses.
Stay on top of what’s going on within your industry. Get notified about news and developments through articles, research studies, engaging podcasts, and professional events where you can meet and connect with other aesthetic practitioners.
MRP provides customer support around the clock so you can get help any time, anywhere. The MRP chatbot operates 24/7 and is equipped to answer most basic queries. If you require the help of a MRP team member live, please call MRP at (435) 731-8232 during business hours. Non-urgent inquiries can also be addressed via email, and we will respond as soon as possible.
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