Laser physics and physiology

Laser light begins when an excited and unstable electron moves from its unstable state back to a more stable state producing energy in the form of a photon. Laser light is coherent which means that the light waves move in phase together in space and time. Laser light is monochromatic which means it is comprised of only one color or wavelength. Laser light is also collimated which means it is perfectly parallel and travels in a single direction with very little divergence. Medical lasers fall in the infrared and visible as well as ultraviolet portion of the electromagnetic spectrum and are available at different wavelengths. The wavelength of each laser partially determines the effect it will have on tissue. A specific wavelength or color can be used to selectively target a specific tissue such as hemoglobin, water, or melanin. Heat is produced by the laser, destroying the targeted tissues.