incisions, blood loss, or sutures; and involve minimal recovery periods. Lasers offer noninvasive treatment for an extensive—and growing—list of conditions that previously required full-blown surgery to correct, including acne scars, tattoos, spider and varicose veins, birthmarks, crow’s feet, lines around the mouth, and excess or thinning hair. Despite all the benefits, however, it is imperative to remember that cosmetic laser surgery is surgery. Consumers considering elective cosmetic procedures must be well informed. Beauty and the Beam is an ideal source of information on this topic and will guide readers in selecting the safest and most experienced practitioner; describe what to expect in a facility; explain what each kind of surgery entails; and show how costs differ from region to region and from practitioner to practitioner. Beauty and the Beam answers nearly every question readers may have about this technology and provides step-by-step methods for evaluating their own needs and seeking the most qualified practitioner.