Unlike scalpel-based techniques, there is no mechanical contact with the tissue when a veterinary laser is deployed. The CO2 laser removes tissue with a highly focused infrared beam: the rapid absorption of laser energy instantaneously ablates the soft tissue target area and, at the same time, seals capillaries, small blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerve endings, with pronounced benefits for both surgeon and patient. The size and power of the laser beam may be adjusted to achieve any desired degree of control over the tissue-removal process, and the laser is equally adept at incisions, excisions, and ablations.  Benefits to the animal include a less painful recovery, reduced risk of infection, and an overall quicker recovery time.