Laser technology has made medical procedures once only the province of the elite available to the masses. Laser technicians are trained to use laser devices in a wide array of medical practices. Ophthalmic laser technicians assist doctors in optical measurements, diagnostics and LASIK eye corrective surgery. Cosmetic laser technicians use laser devices to remove hair, tattoos, varicose veins and skin irregularities. Laser is even used at dental offices to diagnose and treat periodontitis. New uses for laser are currently under development—to treat infection, pain and inflammation—and its applications will only increase over time. Laser technicians will be the specialists poised at the forefront of these exciting new discoveries, ready to implement laser's new applications as they develop.
FIND A SCHOOL
Laser technicians work for medical spas, laser centers and doctors’ offices, especially for doctors who practice dermatology, ophthalmology or plastic surgery. They usually work 40-hour weeks, although they may also work part time with more flexible hours. Laser technicians who provide elective medical and cosmetic treatments may need to adapt their schedules to their clients, providing treatments during hours when their clients typically have free time, such as evenings and weekends. Most laser technicians require supervision by a medical professional such as a doctor or registered nurse.
Education
Laser technicians need to attend a vocational school that offers a laser technician training program. These training programs usually take one to two years to complete and cover laser technology, and often fiber optics and photonics (the study of light particles). Applicants to laser technology schools will need to complete prerequisite coursework and should have an aptitude for mathematics, physics and electronics. Professionals with degrees in other fields, such as medical doctors or nurses, can complete a post-graduate training program in laser technology.
Associate’s degrees in laser technology are also available. This course of study provides training in laser technology, math, physics and basic engineering. A bachelor’s degree in optical engineering is another degree appropriate to this profession; it takes four years to complete and covers most areas of optics (the study of light). Those wishing to do laser research can progress to master’s degree or PhD levels after earning their bachelor’s degree.
In most states, laser technicians with vocational training are allowed to operate laser devices, but laws regulate the types of treatments they are authorized to perform. Some states require laser technicians to have nursing (or more advanced) degrees in order to perform certain procedures.
Training
Hands-on training in laboratory settings is provided during laser technician training school.
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