Considering a minimally invasive laser or related procedure? Here are some important tips:

• Play it safe. The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery recommends that a person have performed at least 10 procedures under the direct supervision of a specialist to assess his or her competency, before being able to do it alone. (For other safety tips, go to www.aslms.org/public/patientsafetytips.html.)

• Get answers.

Is the staff comfortable answering your questions? If not, go elsewhere. If they won't talk before a procedure, imagine how much they may dodge your questions if you are unhappy.• Ask to see follow-up pictures taken more than a year after a procedure; pictures taken immediately afterward may not give accurate results.• Request a patch test if you have sensitive skin.• Tell the doctor about any health issues you have, including a history of scarring.