The mode changes how the beam is delivered, which changes what happens in tissue and who is qualified to be holding the handpiece.
The modes compared
| Fractional mode | Surgical / normal mode | |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Scanned pattern of microscopic dots | Focused or continuous beam |
| Tissue effect | Micro-columns with untreated tissue between them | Continuous incision, vaporisation or coagulation |
| Handpiece | Fractional scanning handpiece | Surgical handpiece or cutting tip |
| Typical control | Energy, spacing, density, pattern, passes | Power, pulse width, pulse interval, pulse type |
| Who operates it | Trained aesthetic or dermatology practitioner | Practitioner qualified for the surgical procedure being performed |
Pulse types in surgical mode
The machines we supply offer continuous, single pulse, continuous pulse and ultra pulse delivery, with power, pulse width and pulse interval adjustable per mode.
Fractional sub-modes
Within fractional mode, the platform provides graded delivery levels — a shallow level, a deeper level, a combined level that runs deep then shallow, and a manual level where the operator sets energy, power and pulse width directly.
Manual control is where an experienced practitioner earns their result and an inexperienced one causes harm. Parameter selection belongs to the clinician, which is why this site publishes no parameter tables.
Gynae and vulva attachments
Some CO2 platforms, including the ones we supply, offer a gynaecological attachment alongside the fractional and surgical handpieces.
What this means when buying
- Which modes are included with the exact model quoted
- Which handpieces ship in the box, named on the invoice
- What documentation supports each intended use
- Who in your clinic is qualified to operate each mode
- Whether training covers each mode or only the fractional preset menu
A machine advertised for every possible indication is describing a category, not a device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between fractional and surgical CO2 mode?
Fractional mode scans a pattern of microscopic dots with untreated tissue between them. Surgical mode delivers a focused or continuous beam for incision, vaporisation or coagulation. Same source, different delivery and different operator requirements.
Does an included gynae attachment mean the machine can be used for gynaecological procedures?
No. Intended use depends on the exact model, the attachment, the regulatory documentation and the qualification of the practitioner. An attachment in the box is not permission.
Is ultra pulse on the menu the same as ultrapulse hardware?
Not necessarily. Ask how the pulse is generated and request the source documentation rather than relying on the mode name on a touchscreen.
Which handpieces should be on the invoice?
Every one you expect to receive, named individually - the fractional scanning handpiece, the surgical tips, and any additional attachment. An accessory that is not on the invoice is one you may be quoted for later.