Abstract: A method is provided for delivering energy to a selected area on a surface. The method includes forming a visually continuous outline on the surface, positioning the visually continuous outline such that the outline surrounds an area to be treated with energy, and delivering energy within the area surrounded by the visually continuous outline. The method may be used to deliver energy to any surface, including surfaces which need to be exposed prior to the delivery of energy. Examples of surfaces that may be treated with energy using the method and apparatus of the present invention include, but are not limited to skin, an exposed area of internal tissue such as muscle or fat tissue, and a surface in an oral cavity such as gum tissue or a tooth enamel.