The cosmetic laser industry moves faster than many other realms. Nothing stays the same for very long and, accordingly, even the same product line can undergo changes. Customers provide feedback. Treatment protocols improve. All of these changes – and more – can be reflected in a laser’s software. Given this reality, it’s vital that you find out how your system will remain current before purchasing any used laser.

Before purchasing any pre-owned or used laser, ask a few software related questions laser: For example:

1. What software version is loaded on the machine at this time?
2. Is it the most current version available?

Some used laser dealers may not be able to answer both questions. The software version may be contained in an area of the system protected by passwords. If the software version is visible, or the broker is able to hack his way to it, he still may not know if it’s a current version or severely outdated. If the broker is able to show the software version and prove that it’s the most current version available, it becomes important to ask how your system will receive updates in the future? The worst case scenario could be that your investment becomes worthless due to an upgrade related to safety.

Speak to an AlmaCPO representative about reliable used lasers and make 2012 a great year for you and your patients.

Some lasers have a reputation for reliability. A few hair removal lasers, in particular, have some pretty impressive up-times. In these cases, some buyers may choose a pay-as-you-go type of maintenance plan. This is exactly what it sounds like: issues are dealt with and paid for as they come up. Of course the owner of the laser hopes that problems will be few and far between. While we always recommend a warranty and a service contract, we understand that a pay-as-you-go solution works for some people.

It’s important to consider, however, the overall quality of the repair and how it could impact your bottom line down the road. Whoever you choose to repair your machine should have:

• Authorization to work on and repair the specific make and model
• A clear understanding of the laser’s safety mechanism
• Access to up-to-date software
• Access to parts that meet original specification
• Access to troubleshooting and advice from the manufacture if needed

If the technician doesn’t have one of the above, your repair could be compromised. A sub-standard repair could potentially result in a machine that’s no longer safe or reliable. Is it worth the risk to your bottom line? Is it worth the risk to your patients?

Speak to an AlmaCPO representative about reliable used lasers and make 2012 a great year for you and your patients.

A cosmetic laser is a combination of electronics, moving parts and software. Even the most maintained and cared for medical device can occasionally break down. For a busy aesthetic practice, a break down can be devastating to the bottom line. A broken laser is no longer generating income. Furthermore, its repair may be costly. It’s important, therefore, to have a contingency plan in place beforehand.

Warranty , it goes without saying, is one great way of protecting yourself from expensive repair costs. Some used laser dealers sell equipment As Is with no warranty at all. This may be due to the age of the system or its background. It’s worth noting that a low price with no warranty can end up being very costly in the long run.

Other used laser brokers offer a generous warranty with each purpose. It’s important to note, however, that the user laser representatives may not be properly trained on the device you purchased. They may have no access to proprietary software, approved parts, electronic diagrams or schematics for troubleshooting or other knowledge held only by the manufacturer. Without knowledge, software, the right parts or even training how will an used laser dealer honor any warranty? It’s a great question to ask them, isn’t it?

Speak to an AlmaCPO representative about reliable used lasers and make 2012 a great year for you and your patients.

Now that you know more about what to ask a used laser dealer, let’s talk about some used laser terminology. Most important, let’s define the difference between USED and Certified Pre Owned Used Lasers.

A Certified Pre Owned, CPO, laser is one that has been professionally inspected and then returned to manufacturer’s original specifications by a technician certified to do so. Broken parts or worn components have been identified and replaced. The laser is calibrated and made to fire at acceptable levels. In other words, the laser is deemed not only reliable but safe to use on patients. Certification is a vital aspect of any used laser purchase, don’t you agree?

A used laser isn’t necessary a certified laser. In some cases a device may be transported from one location to another with no inspection or pre-sale service performed at all. This might be an accepted practice in the used laser market but is it the safest practice for your business? It’s your reputation on the line and we think you deserve better. Don’t you?

Speak to an AlmaCPO representative about reliable used laser and make 2012 a great year for you and your patients.

The used laser market can be full of risks. We’re starting 2012, therefore, with a series of posts designed to help you make the right decision. You laser puts your reputation on the line, after all, and these articles are worth paying attention to. So what’s the first rule in buying any used laser?

Know Your Used Laser Broker

Doesn’t it go without saying that buying any used laser should create a long-term, win-win partnership between you and the used laser dealer. You’re used laser, like any piece of medical equipment, is going to require periodic maintenance and routine service. Likewise, you and those you trust to operate the laser will need training and on-going clinical support. Therefore, your used laser dealer should be able to provide you with warranty or repair services, clinical information and up-to-date protocols. Most used laser dealers and brokers will, obviously, claim that they can provide these important elements.

You can protect yourself from false claims by asking other customers a few questions. For example:

What was the condition of the used laser when you received it?

Was proper paperwork provided with the laser?

Since purchasing the used laser, has it broken down or required more than routine service?

If the laser required service, was the technician certified to perform the repair?

Was the technician able to complete the repair in a timely manner?

Was training provided?

What questions have come up since training?

Was the used laser dealer able to answer those questions?

How many patients are not happy with their results?

The answers may signal challenges with service, training or the laser itself. Whatever the case, they’re problems you can avoid with due diligence.

AlmaCPO strives to eliminate the common risks of the used laser marketplace. The used laser are vigorously refurbished and certified prior to sale. The company then backs the product with warranty and makes clinical support available. In addition to this, Alma Lasers is known for 24-7 service, next day loaners when necessary and some of the best marketing tools in the industry. Speak to an AlmaCPO representative today and make your next used laser part of your best year ever.