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Cutera

cutr · NASDAQ Healthcare
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Ticker cutr
Exchange NASDAQ
Sector Healthcare
Industry Medical - Devices
Employees 201-500
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FY2010 Annual Report · Cutera
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CUTERA, INC. 
2011 PROXY STATEMENT AND 2010 ANNUAL REPORT 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Dear Stockholders: 

You are cordially invited to attend the 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Cutera, Inc. (the “Company”).  The 
meeting  will  be  held  at  our  principal  executive  offices  located  at  3240  Bayshore  Blvd.,  Brisbane,  California  94005-
1021 on June 14, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time.  

The attached Notice of 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement contain details of the business to be 
conducted  at  the  Annual  Meeting. We have  also  made  available  a  copy  of  our  2010 Annual  Report  to  Stockholders 
with this proxy statement. We encourage you to read our Annual Report. It includes our audited financial statements 
and provides information about our business.  

We  have  elected  to  provide  access  to  our  proxy  materials  over  the  internet  under  the  Securities  and  Exchange 
Commission’s  “notice  and  access”  rules.  We  are  constantly  focused  on  improving  the  ways  people  connect  with 
information, and believe that providing our proxy materials over the internet increases the ability of our stockholders to 
connect with the information they need, while reducing the environmental impact of our Annual Meeting. If you need 
additional  information  about  Cutera,  please  visit  the  Investor  Relations  section  of  the  Company’s  website  at 
www.cutera.com.  

Whether or not you attend the Annual Meeting, it is important that your shares be represented and voted at the meeting. 
Therefore, I urge you to promptly vote and submit your proxy via the internet, by phone, or by signing, dating, and 
returning  the  proxy  card  provided  to  you.  If  you  decide  to  attend  the  Annual  Meeting,  you  will  be  able  to  vote  in 
person, even if you have previously submitted your proxy. 

On  behalf  of  Cutera’s  Board  of  Directors  and  executive  team,  I  would  like  to  express  our  appreciation  for  your 
continued interest and confidence in our business.  

Sincerely, 

Kevin Connors, 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 

SCHEDULE 14A 

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 

Filed by the Registrant ⌧ 

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant (cid:134) 

Check the appropriate box: 

(cid:134) 

Preliminary Proxy Statement 

(cid:134) 

Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) 

⌧  Definitive Proxy Statement 

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

Definitive Additional Materials 

Soliciting Material Pursuant to Sec.240.14a-11(c) or Sec.240.14a-2 

CUTERA, INC. 

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant) 

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box): 

⌧  No fee required. 

(cid:134) 

Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(4) and 0-11. 

(1) 

Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: 

(2) 

Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: 

(3) 

Per  unit  price  or  other  underlying  value  of  transaction  computed  pursuant  to  Exchange  Act  Rule 0-11  (Set  forth  the 
amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): 

(4) 

Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: 

(5) 

Total fee paid: 

(cid:134) 

Fee paid previously with preliminary materials. 

(cid:134)  Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the 
offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and 
the date of its filing. 

(1) 

Amount Previously Paid: 

(2) 

Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.: 

(3) 

Filing Party: 

(4) 

Date Filed: 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
   
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTICE OF 2011 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS 
TO BE HELD ON JUNE 14, 2011 
10:00 A.M. Pacific Time 

To our Stockholders:  

You  are  cordially  invited  to  attend  the  2011  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders  of  Cutera,  Inc.  (the 
“Company”). The meeting will be held at our principal executive offices located at 3240 Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, 
California  94005-1021.  We  previously  disclosed  in  our  Annual  Report  that  the  meeting  will  be  held  on  June  13, 
2011. The meeting, however, will be held on June 14, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, for the following purposes:  

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

To elect two Class I directors to each serve for a three-year term that expires at the 2014 Annual 
Meeting of Stockholders and until their successors have been duly elected and qualified; 

To hold a non-binding vote on executive compensation; 

To hold a non-binding vote on the frequency of executive compensation voting; 

To  ratify  the  appointment  of  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP  as  our  independent  registered  public 
accounting firm (the “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm”) for the fiscal year ending 
December 31, 2011; and 

To transact such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting, including any 
motion to adjourn to a later date to permit  further solicitation of proxies, if necessary, or before 
any adjournment thereof. 

The foregoing items of business are more fully described in the proxy statement accompanying this Notice 

of Annual Meeting. 

To help conserve resources and reduce printing and distribution costs, we will be mailing a notice to our 
stockholders, instead of a paper copy of this proxy statement and our 2010 Annual Report, with instructions on how 
to access our proxy materials over the Internet, including this proxy statement, our 2010 Annual Report and a form 
of proxy card or voting instruction card. The notice will also contain instructions on how each of those stockholders 
can receive a paper copy of our proxy materials. 

The meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m., local time, and check-in will begin at 9:50 a.m. local time.. 
Only holders of record of shares of our common stock (NASDAQ: CUTR) at the close of business on April 18, 2011 
will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the meeting and any postponements or adjournments of the meeting. 

For a period of at least 10 days prior to the meeting, a complete list of stockholders entitled to vote at the 
meeting  will  be  available  and  open  to  the examination  of  any  stockholder  for  any  purpose  relating  to  the  Annual 
Meeting during normal business hours at our principal executive offices located at 3240 Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, 
California 94005-1021. 

By order of the Board of Directors, 

Brisbane, California 
April 26, 2011 

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT! 

Kevin P. Connors 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE MEETING, PLEASE PROMPTLY VOTE 
BY  TELEPHONE,  OR  IF  AVAILABLE,  ELECTRONICALLY,  OR,  IF  YOU  RECEIVED  PER  YOUR 
REQUEST A PAPER COPY OF OUR PROXY MATERIALS, COMPLETE, SIGN, DATE, AND RETURN 
THE  ENCLOSED  PROXY  CARD  IN  THE  ACCOMPANYING  POSTAGE-PAID  ENVELOPE.  NO 
ADDITIONAL  POSTAGE  IS  NECESSARY  IF  THE  PROXY  CARD  IS  MAILED  IN  THE  UNITED 
STATES OR CANADA. YOU MAY REVOKE YOUR PROXY AT ANY TIME BEFORE IT IS VOTED AT 
THE MEETING. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REGARDING THIS SOLICITATION AND VOTING AT THE 

ANNUAL MEETING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Why am I receiving these proxy materials? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Why did I receive a notice in the mail regarding the Internet availability of the proxy materials 

instead of a paper copy of the proxy materials? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What is the purpose of the Annual Meeting?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Who is entitled to attend the meeting? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Who is entitled to vote at the meeting? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How many shares must be present or represented to conduct business at the meeting (that is, what 

constitutes a quorum)? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What items of business will be voted on at the meeting? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How does the Board recommend that I vote? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What shares can I vote at the meeting? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What is the difference between holding shares as a stockholder of record and as a beneficial owner? .
How can I vote my shares without attending the meeting? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How can I vote my shares in person at the meeting?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Can I change my vote? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Is my vote confidential? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What vote is required to approve each item and how are votes counted? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What is a “broker non-vote”? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How are “broker non-votes” counted? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How are abstentions counted? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What happens if additional matters are presented at the meeting?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Who will serve as inspector of election?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What should I do in the event that I receive more than one set of proxy/voting materials? . . . . . . . . . . . .
Who is soliciting my vote and who will bear the costs of this solicitation?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Where can I find the voting results of the meeting?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What is the deadline to propose actions for consideration at next year’s Annual Meeting of stockholders 
or to nominate individuals to serve as directors? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

STOCK OWNERSHIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND BOARD MATTERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Director Independence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Board Leadership Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk Oversight and Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Committees of the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Meetings Attended by Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Director Nomination Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Director Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Code of Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate Governance Committee Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Review, Approval or Ratification of Related Party Transactions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Family Relationships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Indemnification Agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Communications with the Board by Stockholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

PROPOSAL ONE—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Classes of the Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Director Nominees  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Board of Directors’ Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Directors Whose Terms Extend Beyond the 2011 Annual Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

PROPOSAL TWO— NON-BINDING VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Summary of 2010 Executive Compensation Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Board of Directors’ Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

PROPOSAL THREE—NON-BINDING VOTE ON THE FREQUENCY OF EXECUTIVE 

COMPENSATION VOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Board of Directors’ Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

PROPOSAL FOUR—RATIFICATION OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP AS OUR 

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Board of Directors’ Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Audit and Non-Audit Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Compensation Discussion and Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m) and Limitations on Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Summary Compensation Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Grants of Plan-Based Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Equity Incentive Awards Outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Options Exercised and Stock Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

OTHER MATTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

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PROXY STATEMENT 
FOR 
2011 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS 
TO BE HELD ON JUNE 14, 2011 

The Board of directors of Cutera, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is soliciting the enclosed proxy from you. 
The  proxy  will  be  used  at  our  2011  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders  to  be  held  on  Monday,  June  14,  2011, 
beginning  at  10:00  a.m.,  Pacific  Time,  which  is  the  local  time,  at  our  principal  executive  offices  located  at  3240 
Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, California 94005-1021, and at any postponements or adjournments thereof. This proxy 
statement  contains  important  information  regarding  the meeting.  Specifically,  it  identifies  the  matters  upon  which 
you are being asked to vote, provides information that you may find useful in determining how to vote and describes 
the voting procedures. 

In this proxy statement the terms “we”, “our”, “Cutera” and the “Company” each refer to Cutera, Inc.; the 
term “Board” means our Board of directors; the term “proxy materials” means this proxy statement, the enclosed 
proxy  card,  and  our  Annual  Report  of  Form  10-K  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2010,  filed  with  the  U.S. 
Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 15, 2011, and the term “Annual Meeting” means our 
2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. 

We  are  sending  the  Notice  of  Internet  Availability  of  Proxy  Materials  on  or  about  May  5,  2011,  to  all 

stockholders of record at the close of business on April 18, 2011 (the “Record Date”). 

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS REGARDING THIS SOLICITATION AND VOTING AT THE ANNUAL 
MEETING 

Why am I receiving these proxy 
materials? 

   You are receiving these proxy materials from us because you were a stockholder 
of  record  at  the  close  of  business  on  the  Record  Date  (which  was  April  18,
2011). As a stockholder of record, you are invited to attend the meeting and are
entitled to and requested to vote on the items of business described in this proxy 
statement. 

Why did I receive a notice in the 
mail regarding the Internet 
availability of the proxy 
materials instead of a paper 
copy of the proxy materials? 

   Pursuant to SEC rules, we have elected to provide access to our proxy materials
over the Internet. Accordingly, we are sending a Notice of Internet Availability
of Proxy Materials (the “Notice”) to our stockholders. 

All stockholders will have the ability to access the proxy materials on a website
referred  to  in  the  Notice  or  request  to  receive  a  printed  set  of  the  proxy 
materials. 

Instructions on how to access the proxy materials over the Internet or to request
a printed copy may be found on the Notice. 

In addition, stockholders may request to receive proxy materials in printed form
by  mail  or  electronically  by  email  on  an  ongoing  basis.  Choosing  to  receive
your  future  proxy  materials  by  email  will  save  us  the  cost  of  printing  and
mailing  documents  to  you  and  will  reduce  the  impact  of  our  annual
stockholders’ meetings on the environment. If you chose in connection with our 
2010  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders  to  receive  future  proxy  materials  by
email, you should receive an email this year with instructions containing a link
to  those  materials  and  a  link  to  the  proxy  voting  site.  In  connection  with  our 
upcoming Annual Meeting, if you choose to receive future proxy materials by
email, you will receive an email next year with instructions containing a link to
those  materials  and  a  link  to  the  proxy  voting  site.  Your  election  to  receive
proxy materials by email will remain in effect until you terminate it. 

1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
What is the purpose of the 
Annual Meeting? 

   At  our  meeting,  stockholders  of  record  will  vote  upon  the  items  of  business
outlined  in  the  notice  of  meeting  (on  the  cover  page  of  this  proxy  statement), 
each  of  which  is  described  more  fully  in  this  proxy  statement.  In  addition,
management  will  report  on  the  performance  of  the  Company  and  respond  to
questions from stockholders. 

Who is entitled to attend the 
meeting? 

   You are entitled to attend the meeting only if you owned our common stock (or
were a joint holder) as of the Record Date or if you hold a valid proxy for the
meeting. You should be prepared to present photo identification for admittance. 

Please  also  note  that  if  you  are  not  a  stockholder  of  record  but  hold  shares  in 
street  name  (that  is,  through  a  broker  or  nominee),  you  will  need  to  provide
proof of beneficial ownership as of the Record Date, such as your most recent
brokerage account statement, a copy of the voting instruction card provided by 
your broker, trustee or nominee, or other similar evidence of ownership. 

The meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m., local time. Check-in will begin 
at 9:50 a.m., local time. 

Who is entitled to vote at the 
meeting? 

   Only stockholders who owned our common stock at the close of business on the
Record  Date  are  entitled  to  notice  of  and  to  vote  at  the  meeting,  and  at  any
postponements or adjournments thereof. 

As  of  the  Record  Date,  13,721,045  shares  of  our  common  stock  were 
outstanding. Each outstanding share of our common stock entitles the holder to
one  vote  on  each  matter  considered  at  the  meeting.  Accordingly,  there  are  a
maximum of 13,721,045 votes that may be cast at the meeting. 

How many shares must be 
present or represented to 
conduct business at the meeting 
(that is, what constitutes a 
quorum)? 

   The presence at the meeting, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority
of the shares of our common stock entitled to vote at the meeting will constitute 
a  quorum.  A  quorum  is  required  to  conduct  business  at  the  meeting.  The
presence  of  the  holders  of  our  common  stock  representing  at  least 6,860,523 
votes will be required to establish a quorum at the meeting. Both abstentions and
broker non-votes are counted for the purpose of determining the presence of a 
quorum. 

What items of business will be 
voted on at the meeting? 

   The items of business scheduled to be voted on at the meeting are as follows: 

1. the  election  of  two  nominees  to  serve  as  Class  I  directors  on  our 

Board; 

2. a non-binding vote on executive compensation; 

3. a  non-binding  vote  on  the  frequency  of  executive  compensation 

voting; and 

4. the  ratification  of  the  appointment  of  PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP  as  our  Independent  Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm  for 
the 2011 fiscal year. 

These proposals are described more fully below in this proxy statement. As of
the  date  of  this  proxy  statement,  the  only  business  that  our  Board  intends  to
present or knows of that others will present at the meeting is as set forth in this 
proxy statement. If any other matter or matters are properly brought before the
meeting,  it  is  the  intention  of  the  persons  who  hold  proxies  to  vote  the  shares
they represent in accordance with their best judgment. 

2 

  
     
 
 
  
     
 
  
     
  
     
 
 
  
 
How does the Board 
recommend that I vote? 

   Our  Board  recommends  that  you  vote  your  shares  “FOR”  each  of  the  director
nominees, “FOR” the approval of a non binding vote on executive compensation
and “FOR” the ratification of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as our Independent 
Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm  for  the  2011  fiscal  year.  In  addition,  our
Board  recommends  that  you  vote  your  shares  for  the  frequency  of  executive
compensation voting to occur every three years, rather than every year or every
two years. 

What shares can I vote at the 
meeting? 

   You  may  vote  all  shares  owned  by  you  as  of  the  Record  Date,  including  (1)
shares  held  directly  in  your  name  as  the  stockholder  of  record,  and  (2)  shares 
held for you as the beneficial owner through a broker, trustee or other nominee 
such as a bank. 

What is the difference between 
holding shares as a stockholder 
of record and as a beneficial 
owner? 

   Most  of  our  stockholders  hold  their  shares  through  a  broker  or  other  nominee
rather  than  directly  in  their  own  name.  As  summarized  below,  there  are  some 
distinctions between shares held of record and those owned beneficially. 

Stockholders  of  Record.  If  your  shares  are  registered  directly  in  your  name 
with  our  transfer  agent,  Computershare  Trust  Company,  Inc.,  you  are 
considered,  with  respect  to  those  shares,  the  stockholder  of  record,  and  these 
proxy  materials  are  being  sent  directly  to  you  by  us.  As  the  stockholder  of 
record,  you  have  the  right  to  grant  your  voting  proxy  directly  to  Cutera  or  to
vote in person at the meeting. We have enclosed a proxy card for your use. 

Beneficial Owner. If your shares are held in a brokerage account or by another
nominee, you are considered the beneficial owner of shares held in street name, 
and  these  proxy  materials  are  being  forwarded  to  you  together  with  a  voting 
instruction  card.  As  the  beneficial  owner,  you  have  the  right  to  direct  your
broker,  trustee  or  nominee  how  to  vote  and  are  also  invited  to  attend  the
meeting.  Please  note  that  since  a  beneficial  owner  is  not  the  stockholder  of 
record, you may not vote these shares in person at the meeting unless you obtain
a  “legal  proxy”  from  the  broker,  trustee  or  nominee  that  holds  your  shares,
giving  you  the  right  to  vote  the  shares  at  the  meeting.  Your  broker,  trustee  or
nominee has enclosed or provided voting instructions for you to use in directing
the broker, trustee or nominee how to vote your shares. 

   Whether you hold shares directly as the stockholder of record or beneficially in 
street  name,  you  may  direct  how  your  shares  are  voted  without  attending  the
meeting.  Stockholders  of  record  of  our  common  stock  may  submit  proxies  by
completing,  signing  and  dating  their  proxy  cards  and  mailing  them  in  the
accompanying  pre-addressed  envelope.  Our  stockholders  who  hold  shares 
beneficially in street name may vote by mail by completing, signing and dating
the  voting  instruction  cards  provided  by  the  broker,  trustee  or  nominee  and
mailing them in the accompanying pre-addressed envelope. 

   Shares held in your name as the stockholder of record may be voted in person at
the meeting. Shares held beneficially in street name may be voted in person only
if you obtain a legal proxy from the broker, trustee or nominee that holds your
shares  giving  you  the  right  to  vote  the  shares.  Even  if  you  plan  to  attend  the
meeting,  we  recommend  that  you  also  submit  your  proxy  card  or  voting
instructions  as  described  above  so  that  your  vote  will  be  counted  if  you  later 
decide not to, or are unable to, attend the meeting. 

3 

How can I vote my shares 
without attending the meeting? 

How can I vote my shares in 
person at the meeting? 

  
     
  
     
 
 
  
     
  
     
  
 
Can I change my vote? 

Is my vote confidential? 

   You may change your vote at any time prior to the vote at the meeting. If you
are  the  stockholder  of  record,  you  may  change  your  vote  by  granting  a  new 
proxy  bearing  a  later  date  (which  automatically  revokes  the  earlier  proxy),  by
providing  a  written  notice  of  revocation  to  our  Secretary  prior  to  your  shares
being voted, or by attending the meeting and voting in person. Attendance at the 
meeting will not cause your previously granted proxy to be revoked unless you
specifically so request. 

For shares you hold beneficially in street name, you may change your vote by
submitting new voting instructions to your broker, trustee or nominee, or, if you 
have obtained a legal proxy from your broker, trustee or nominee giving you the
right to vote your shares, by attending the meeting and voting in person. 

   Proxy  instructions,  ballots  and  voting  tabulations  that  identify  individual 
stockholders  are  handled  in  a  manner  that  protects  your  voting  privacy.  Your
vote will not be disclosed either within Cutera or to third parties, except: (1) as
necessary to meet applicable legal requirements, (2) to allow for the tabulation 
of  votes  and  certification  of  the  vote,  and  (3)  to  facilitate  a  successful  proxy
solicitation.  Occasionally,  stockholders  provide  written  comments  on  their
proxy card, which are then forwarded to our management. 

What vote is required to approve 
each item and how are votes 
counted? 

   The vote required to approve each item of business and the method for counting

votes is set forth below: 

Election of Directors. The two director nominees receiving the highest number 
of  affirmative  “FOR”  votes  at  the  meeting  (a  plurality  of  votes  cast)  will  be 
elected  to  serve  as  Class  I  directors.  You  may  vote  either  “FOR”  or
“WITHHOLD” your vote for the director nominees. A properly executed proxy
marked “WITHHOLD” with respect to the election of one or more directors will 
not be voted with respect to the director or directors indicated, although it will
be counted for purposes of determining whether there is a quorum. 

Non-binding Vote on Executive Compensation. For the non-binding vote on 
executive compensation, the affirmative “FOR” vote of a majority of the shares 
represented  in  person  or  by  proxy  and  entitled  to  vote  on  the  item  will  be
required for approval. You may vote “FOR,” “AGAINST” or “ABSTAIN” for
this item of business. If you “ABSTAIN,” your abstention has the same effect as 
a vote “AGAINST.” 

Non-binding  Vote  on  the  Frequency  of  Executive  Compensation  Voting. 
The frequency option receiving the highest number of affirmative “FOR” votes
at  the  meeting  (a  plurality  of  votes  cast)  will  be  considered  the  frequency 
preferred by the stockholders, although such vote will not be binding on us. You
may vote, with respect to the proposal to recommend, by non-binding vote, the 
frequency of executive compensation voting, for a vote every one, two or three
years,  or  may  abstain  from  voting.  If  you  “ABSTAIN”  from  voting  on  this
proposal, the abstention will not have an effect on the outcome of the vote. 

Ratification  of  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP  as  our  Independent
Registered Public Accounting Firm. For the ratification of the appointment of 
our  Independent  Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm,  the  affirmative  “FOR”
vote of a majority of the shares represented in person or by proxy and entitled to
vote  on  the  item  will  be  required  for  approval.  You  may  vote  “FOR,”
“AGAINST”  or  “ABSTAIN”  for  this  item  of  business.  If  you  “ABSTAIN,”
your abstention has the same effect as a vote “AGAINST.” 

4 

 
  
     
  
     
 
 
 
 
  
 
What is a “broker non-vote”? 

   If you provide specific instructions with regard to certain items, your shares will
be  voted  as  you  instruct  on  such  items.  If  you  sign  your  proxy  card  or  voting 
instruction card without giving specific instructions, your shares will be voted in
accordance  with  the  recommendations  of  the  Board  (“FOR”  all  of  the
Company’s  nominees  to  the  Board,  “FOR”  the  approval, by  non-binding  vote, 
of  executive  compensation,  “EVERY  3  YEARS”  for  the  approval,  by  non-
binding vote, of triennial executive compensation voting, “FOR” ratification of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as our Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm, and in the discretion of the proxy holders on any other matters that may 
properly come before the meeting). 

   A “broker non-vote” occurs when a broker expressly instructs on a proxy card 
that it is not voting on a matter, whether routine or non-routine. Under the rules 
that govern brokers who have record ownership of shares that are held in street
name for their clients who are the beneficial owners of the shares, brokers have 
the  discretion  to  vote  such  shares  on  routine  matters,  which  includes  ratifying
the  appointment  of  an  independent  registered  public  accounting  firm  but  does
not  include  the  election  of  directors,  the  non-binding  vote  on  executive 
compensation and the non-binding vote on frequency of executive compensation 
voting. Therefore, if you do not otherwise instruct your broker, the broker may
turn  in  a  proxy  card  voting  your  shares  “FOR”  ratification  of  the  Independent
Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm.  However,  if  you  do  not  instruct  your 
broker how to vote with respect to the election of directors, the non-binding 
vote  on  executive  compensation  and  the  non-binding  vote  on  frequency  of 
executive  compensation  voting,  your  broker  may  not  vote  with  respect  to 
such  proposal  and  your  shares  will  not  be  counted  as  voting  in  favor  of
these matters.

How are “broker non-votes” 
counted? 

   Broker non-votes will be counted for the purpose of determining the presence or
absence of a quorum for the transaction of business, but they will not be counted
in tabulating the voting result for any particular proposal. 

How are abstentions counted? 

What happens if additional 
matters are presented at the 
meeting? 

   If  you  return  a  proxy  card  that  indicates  an  abstention  from  voting  on  all
matters,  the  shares  represented  will  be  counted  for  the  purpose  of  determining
both the presence of a quorum and the total number of votes cast with respect to
a  proposal  (other  than  the  election  of  directors),  but  they  will  not  be  voted  on
any  matter  at  the  meeting.  In  the  absence  of  controlling  precedent  to  the 
contrary, we intend to treat abstentions in this manner. Accordingly, abstentions
will have the same effect as a vote “AGAINST” a proposal. 

   Other than the two proposals described in this proxy statement, we are not aware
of any other business to be acted upon at the meeting. If you grant a proxy, the
persons  named  as  proxy  holders,  David  B.  Apfelberg  (the  lead  independent
director on our Board) and Ronald J. Santilli (our Chief Financial Officer), will
have  the  discretion  to  vote  your  shares  on  any  additional  matters  that  may  be
properly presented for a vote at the meeting. If, for any unforeseen reason, any
of our nominees is not available as a candidate for director, the persons named 
as proxy holders will vote your proxy for such other candidate or candidates as
may be nominated by our Board. 

Who will serve as inspector of 
election? 

   We expect a representative of Computershare Trust Company, Inc., our transfer 
agent,  to  tabulate  the  votes,  and  expect  Rajesh  Madan,  our  Vice  President  of
Finance to act as inspector of election at the meeting. 

5 

  
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
     
  
     
 
 
What should I do in the event that I 
receive more than one set of 
proxy/voting materials? 

   You  may  receive  more  than  one  set  of  these  proxy  solicitation  materials,  including
multiple  copies  of  this  proxy  statement  and  multiple  proxy  cards  or  voting  instruction
cards. For example, if you hold your shares in more than one brokerage account, you may 
receive a separate voting instruction card for each brokerage account in which you hold
shares. In addition, If you are a stockholder of record and your shares are registered in
more than one name, you may receive more than one proxy card. Please complete, sign, 
date  and  return  each  Cutera  proxy  card  and  voting  instruction  card  that  you  receive  to
ensure that all your shares are voted. 

Who is soliciting my vote and who 
will bear the costs of this 
solicitation? 

   Your vote is being solicited on behalf of the Board, and the Company will bear the entire
cost  of  solicitation  of  proxies,  including  preparation,  assembly,  printing  and  mailing  of
this  proxy  statement.  In  addition  to  these  mailed  proxy  materials,  our  directors  and
employees may also solicit proxies in person, by telephone, by electronic mail or by other
means  of  communication.  Directors  and  employees  will  not  be  paid  any  additional
compensation for soliciting proxies. We may reimburse brokerage firms, banks and other
agents  for  the  cost  of  forwarding  proxy  materials  to  beneficial  owners.  We  may  also
engage the services of a professional proxy solicitation firm to aid in the solicitation of
proxies from certain brokers, bank nominees and other institutional owners. Our costs for 
such services, if retained, will not be material. 

Where can I find the voting results 
of the meeting? 

   We intend to announce preliminary voting results at the Annual Meeting and file a Form
8-K with the SEC within four business days after the end of our Annual Meeting to report 
the voting results. 

What is the deadline to propose 
actions for consideration at next 
year’s Annual Meeting of 
stockholders or to nominate 
individuals to serve as directors? 

   As a stockholder, you may be entitled to present proposals for action at a future meeting 

of stockholders, including director nominations. 

Stockholder Proposals: For a stockholder proposal to be considered for inclusion in our 
proxy statement for the Annual Meeting to be held in 2012, the written proposal must be 
received  by  our  corporate  Secretary  at  our  principal  executive  offices  no  later  than
January  6,  2012,  which  is  the  date  120  calendar  days  before  the  anniversary  of  the
mailing date of the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials. If the date of next 
year’s Annual Meeting is moved more than 30 days before or after the anniversary date
of  this  year’s  Annual  Meeting,  the  deadline  for  inclusion  of  proposals  in  our  proxy
statement  is  instead  a  reasonable  time  before  we  begin  to  print  and  mail  its  proxy 
materials. Such proposals also must comply with the requirements of Rule 14a-8 of the 
Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934,  as  amended  (the  “Exchange  Act”),  and  any  other
applicable  rules  established  by  the  SEC.  Stockholders  interested  in  submitting  such  a 
proposal are advised to contact knowledgeable legal counsel with regard to the detailed
requirements of applicable securities laws. Proposals should be addressed to: 

Secretary 
Cutera, Inc. 
3240 Bayshore Blvd. 
Brisbane, California 94005-1021 

Nomination  of  Director  Candidates:  You  may  propose  director  candidates  for 
consideration  by  our  Board.  Any  such  recommendations  should  include  the  nominee’s
name and qualifications for Board membership and should be directed to the “Secretary”
at the address of our principal executive offices set forth above. In addition, our Bylaws
permit  stockholders  to  nominate  directors  for  election  at  an  Annual  Meeting  of
stockholders.  To  nominate  a  director,  the  stockholder  must  provide  the  information
required  by  our  Bylaws,  as  well  as  a  statement  by  the  nominee  consenting  to  being
named  as  a  nominee  and  to  serve  as  a  director  if  elected.  In  addition,  the  stockholder
must give timely notice to our corporate Secretary in accordance with the provisions of
our Bylaws, which require that the notice be received by our corporate Secretary no later
than January 6, 2012. 

Copy  of  Bylaw  Provisions:  You  may  contact  our  corporate  Secretary  at  our  principal 
executive offices for a copy of the relevant bylaw provisions regarding the requirements 
for making stockholder proposals and nominating director candidates. 

6 

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management 

STOCK OWNERSHIP 

The following table provides information relating to the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of 

the Record Date, by: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

each stockholder known by us to own beneficially more than 5% of our common stock; 

each of our Named  Executive  Officers named  in  the Summary  Compensation  Table  on page 23 
(our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer); 

each of our directors; and 

all of our directors and Named Executive Officers as a group. 

The number of shares beneficially owned by each entity, person, director or executive officer is determined 
in accordance with the rules of the SEC, and the information is not necessarily indicative of beneficial ownership for 
any other purpose. Under such rules, beneficial ownership includes any shares over which the individual has the sole 
or shared  voting  power or  investment  power  and  any  shares  that  the individual has the  right  to  acquire  within 60 
days of April 18, 2011 (the Record Date) through the exercise of any stock option or other right. The number and 
percentage  of  shares  beneficially  owned  is  computed  on  the  basis  of  13,721,045  shares  of  our  common  stock 
outstanding as of the Record Date. The information in the following table regarding the beneficial owners of more 
than 5% of our common stock is based upon information supplied by principal stockholders or Schedules 13D and 
13G filed with the SEC. 

Shares of our common stock that a person has the right to acquire within 60 days of the Record Date are 
deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of the person holding such rights, but are 
not  deemed  outstanding  for  purposes  of  computing  the  percentage  ownership  of  any  other  person,  except  with 
respect to the percentage ownership of all directors and executive officers as a group. To our knowledge, except as 
set  forth  in  the  footnotes  to  this  table  and  subject  to  applicable  community  property  laws,  each  person  or  entity 
named in the table has sole voting and disposition power with respect to the shares set forth opposite such person’s 
or entity’s name. The address for those persons for which an address is not otherwise provided is c/o Cutera, Inc., 
3240 Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, California 94005-1021. 

Number of
Shares 
Outstanding

Warrants 
and Options 
Exercisable 
Within 60 
Days 

Approximate
Percent 
Owned

1,284,550 
1,026,285 
835,675 
783,493 
756,655 
26,211 
558,727 
196,165 
15,804 
13,519 
34,600 
13,519 
858,545 

— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
52,000 
278,308 
41,126 
62,000 
42,000 
178,401 
62,000 
715,835 

9.4%
7.5%
6.1%
5.7%
5.5%
* 
6.1%
1.7%
* 
* 
1.6%
* 
11.5%

Name and Address of Beneficial Owner

Individuals and entities affiliated with Fidelity Management & 

Research Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Individuals and entities affiliated with GAMCO Investors, Inc. . . .  
Entities affiliated with American Century Companies, Inc.. . . . . . . .  
BlackRock, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
David B. Apfelberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Kevin P. Connors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
David A. Gollnick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
W. Mark Lortz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Timothy J. O’Shea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Ronald J. Santilli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Jerry P. Widman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
All directors and Named Executive Officers as a group (7 persons)  

*Less than 1%. 

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance 

Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our directors, officers and beneficial owners of more than 10% 
of  our  common  stock  to  file  reports  of  ownership  and  reports  of  changes  in  the  ownership  with  the  SEC.  Such 
persons are required by SEC regulations to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. 

Based  solely  on  our  review  of  the  copies  of  such  forms  received  by  us,  or  written  representations  from 
reporting persons that no Forms 3, 4 or 5 were required of such persons, we believe that during our fiscal year ended 
December 31, 2010 all reports were timely filed. 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND BOARD MATTERS 

Director Independence 

Our Board currently consists of eight authorized directors, with two vacancies. The Company’s directors 
are  David  B.  Apfelberg,  Kevin  P.  Connors,  David  A.  Gollnick,  Timothy  J.  O’Shea,  W.  Mark  Lortz  and  Jerry  P. 
Widman.  Our  Board  has  determined  that  each  of  the  directors  other  than  Kevin  P.  Connors,  the  Company’s 
President and Chief Executive Officer, and David A. Gollnick, the Company’s former Executive Vice President of 
Research  and  Development  and  a  current  consultant  to  our  Company  satisfy  the  current  “independent  director” 
standards established by rules of The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”). 

Board Leadership Structure 

Our Board does not have a chairman. In July 2010, our Board designated David B. Apfelberg as the lead 
independent director of the Board. Our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Connors, performs many of the functions that a 
chairman  would  typically  perform  and  works  together  with  Dr.  Apfelberg  in  setting  the  agenda  for  each  board 
meeting and presiding over such meetings. At the end of each board meeting, the independent directors meet without 
Mr. Connors  and  Mr. Gollnick  present.  Following  each  meeting,  Dr. Apfelberg  provides  feedback  to  Mr. Connors 
on his performance and the performance of other Cutera employees during the meeting and frequently recommends 
new agenda items for the next meeting. 

As  described  in  more  detail  below,  the  Board  has  two  standing  committees,  an  Audit  Committee  and  a 
Compensation  Committee.  The  chairman  and  each  member  of  these  committees  is  an  independent  director.  The 
Board delegates substantial duties and responsibilities to each committee. The committees make recommendations 
to the Board and report regularly to the Board on their activities and any actions they have taken. We believe that 
our independent board committees and their chairman are an important aspect of our board leadership structure. 

Risk Oversight and Analysis 

Our  management  is  responsible  for  managing  the  risks  we  face  in  the  ordinary  course  of  operating  our 
business.  The  Board  oversees  potential  risks  and  our  risk  management  activities  by  receiving  operational  and 
strategic presentations from management which include discussions of key risks to our business. While our Board 
has the ultimate responsibility for risk management and oversight, various committees of the Board also support the 
Board  in  its  fulfillment  of  this  responsibility.  For  example,  our  Audit  Committee  assists  the  Board  in  its  risk 
oversight function by reviewing and discussing with management our system of disclosure controls and our internal 
controls  over  financial  reporting,  and  risks  associated  with  our  cash  investment  policies.  Our  business  is  run 
conservatively and excessive risk taking has been discouraged. As a result, risk analysis has not been a significant 
factor for our Compensation Committee in establishing compensation. 

8 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Committees of the Board 

Our  Board  has  two  standing  committees:  the  Audit  Committee  and  the  Compensation  Committee.  From 
time to time, our Board may also create various ad hoc committees for special purposes. The membership during the 
last fiscal year and the function of each of the committees are described below. 

Name of Director

Non-Employee Directors: 
Jerry P. Widman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Timothy J. O’Shea** . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
W. Mark Lortz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
David B. Apfelberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
David A. Gollnick*** . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employee Directors: 
Kevin P. Connors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Number of Meetings Held During the Last Fiscal Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Audit 
Committee 

Compensation
Committee

X* 
X 
X 

6 

X 
X 

X* 

4 

=  Committee member 
=  Chairman of Committee 

X 
* 
**  =  Mr. O’Shea was appointed a member of our Compensation Committee on April 22, 2011. 
***  =  Mr.  Gollnick  resigned  from  the  position  of  Executive  Vice  President  of  Research  and  Development

effective March 20, 2009 and continues to be a member of our Board and a consultant to our Company. 

Audit  Committee.  The  Audit  Committee  oversees  the  Company’s  accounting  and  financial  reporting 
processes  and  the  audits  of  its  financial  statements.  In  this  role,  the  Audit  Committee  monitors  and  oversees  the 
integrity  of  the  Company’s  financial  statements  and  related  disclosures,  the  qualifications,  independence,  and 
performance  of  the  Company’s  Independent  Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm,  and  the  Company’s  compliance 
with applicable legal requirements and its business conduct policies. Our Board has determined that each member of 
the  Audit  Committee  meets  the  independence  and  financial  literacy  requirements  of  the  Nasdaq  rules  and  the 
independence requirements of the SEC. Our Board has determined that Jerry P. Widman continues to qualify as an 
“audit committee financial expert,” as defined in SEC rules. The Audit Committee has a written charter, which was 
adopted by our Board in January 2004, a copy of which can be found on our website at www.cutera.com. The report 
of the Audit Committee appears on page 14 of this proxy statement. 

Compensation  Committee.  The  Compensation  Committee, 

the  Board,  establishes 
compensation for the Chief Executive Officer and the other executive officers and administers the Company’s 2004 
Equity  Incentive  Plan  (as  amended  in  2008)  and  2004  Employee  Stock  Purchase  Plan.  The  Compensation 
Committee has a written charter, which was adopted by our Board in January 2004, and amended on April 13, 2007 
and on April 25, 2008, and can be found on our website. 

together  with 

Meetings Attended by Directors 

During 2010, the Board held five meetings, the Audit Committee held six meetings and the Compensation 
Committee held three meetings. No director attended fewer than 75% of the meetings of the Board or committee(s) 
on which he or she served during 2010. 

9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The  directors  of  the  Company  are  encouraged  to  attend  the  Company’s  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders.  In  2010, 
director  Kevin  P.  Connors  attended  the  meeting  in  person  and  directors  David B.  Apfelberg,  Timothy J.  O’Shea  and  Jerry  P. 
Widman attended the meeting telephonically. No other board members attended that meeting, in person or telephonically. 

Director Nomination Process 

Nominations.  Our  Board  does  not  currently  have  a  nominating  committee  or  other  committee  performing  a  similar 
function nor do we have any formal written policies outlining the factors and process relating to the selection of nominees for 
consideration for Board membership by the full Board and the stockholders. Our Board has adopted resolutions in accordance 
with the Nasdaq Rules authorizing a majority of its independent members to recommend qualified nominees for consideration by 
the full Board. Our Board believes that it is appropriate for us to not have a standing nominating committee because of a number 
of factors, including the number of independent directors who want to participate in consideration of candidates for membership 
on the Board. Our Board consists of six members, four of whom are independent. Our Board considered forming a nominating 
committee consisting of several of the independent members of our Board. Forming a committee consisting of less than all of the 
independent  members  would  have  resulted  in  the  omission  of  the  other  independent  members  of  our  Board  who  wanted  to 
participate  in  considering  qualified  candidates  for  Board  membership.  Since  our  Board  desired  the  participation  in  the 
nominations  process  of  all  of  its  independent  members,  it  therefore  decided  not  to  form  a  nominating  committee  and  instead 
authorized a majority of the independent members of our Board to make and consider nominations for Board membership. The 
independent  members  of  our  Board  do  not  have  a  nominating  committee  charter,  but  act  pursuant  to  Board  resolutions  as 
described above and according to written nominating and corporate governance guidelines adopted in October 2010. Each of the 
members  of  our  Board  authorized  to  recommend  nominees  to the  full  Board is  independent  within  the  meaning  of  the  current 
“independent director” standards established by Nasdaq’s rules. Our Board last reviewed this matter in October 2010 and intends 
to review it periodically, and may in the future elect to designate a formal nominating committee. 

Director  Qualifications.  While  the  independent  members  of  our  Board  have  not  established  specific  minimum 
qualifications  for  director  candidates,  the  candidates  for  Board  membership  should  have  the  highest  professional  and  personal 
ethics and values, and conduct themselves consistent with our Code of Ethics. While the independent members of the Board have 
not formalized specific minimum qualifications they believe must be met by a candidate to be recommended by the independent 
members, the independent members of the Board believe that candidates and nominees must reflect a Board that is comprised of 
directors  who  (i)  have  broad  and  relevant  experience,  (ii)  are  predominantly  independent,  (iii)  are  of  high  integrity,  (iv)  have 
qualifications  that  will  increase  overall  Board  effectiveness  and  enhance  long-term  stockholder  value,  and  (v)  meet  other 
requirements  as  may  be  required  by  applicable  rules,  such  as  financial  literacy  or  financial  expertise  with  respect  to  Audit 
Committee members. 

Stockholder Nominations and Recommendations. As described above in the Question and Answer section of this proxy 
statement under “What is the deadline to propose actions for consideration at next year’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders or to 
nominate  individuals  to  serve  as  directors?,”  our  Bylaws  set  forth  the  procedure  for  the  proper  submission  of  stockholder 
nominations for membership on our Board. In addition, the independent members of our Board may consider properly submitted 
stockholder recommendations (as opposed to formal nominations) for candidates for membership  on the Board. A stockholder 
may make such a recommendation by submitting the following information to our Secretary at 3240 Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, 
California  94005-1021:  the  candidate’s  name,  home  and  business  contact  information,  detailed  biographical  data,  relevant 
qualifications,  professional  and  personal  references,  information  regarding  any relationships  between  the  candidate  and  Cutera 
within the last three years and evidence of ownership of Cutera stock by the recommending stockholder. 

Identifying and Evaluating Director Nominees. Typically new candidates for nomination to the Board are suggested by 
existing  directors  or  by  our  executive  officers,  although  candidates  may  initially  come  to  our  attention  through  professional 
search  firms,  stockholders  or  other  persons.  The independent  members  of  the  Board  carefully  review  the  qualifications  of  any 
candidates  who  have  been  properly  brought  to  their  attention.  Such  a  review  may,  in  the  Board’s  discretion,  include  a  review 
solely of information provided to the Board or may also include discussion with persons familiar with the candidate, an interview 
with  the  candidate  or  other  actions  that  the  Board  deems  proper.  The  Board  shall  consider  the  suitability  of  each  candidate, 
including  the  current  members  of  the  Board,  in  light  of  the  current  size  and  composition  of  the  Board.  In  evaluating  the 
qualifications  of  the candidates, the  independent members  of  the Board  considers  many  factors,  including,  issues  of  character, 
judgment, independence, expertise, length of service, and other commitments. In addition, the independent members of the Board 
take into account diversity in professional experience, skills and background in considering and evaluating candidates. However, 
while diversity relating to background, skill, experience and perspective is one factor considered in the nomination process, the 
Company  does  not  have  a  formal  policy  relating  to  diversity.  The  Board  evaluates  such  factors,  among  others,  and  does  not 
assign  any  particular  weighting  or  priority  to  any  of  these  factors.  Candidates  properly  recommended  by  stockholders  are 
evaluated by the independent directors using the same criteria as other candidates. Candidates are not discriminated against on 
the basis of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or any other basis proscribed by law. 

10 

 
 
 
 
 
Director Compensation 

The following table sets forth a summary of the cash compensation and the grant date fair value of fully 

vested Cutera stock awarded to our non-employee directors in the year ended December 31, 2010. 

Name 
David B. Apfelberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
David A. Gollnick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
W. Mark Lortz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Timothy J. O’Shea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Jerry P. Widman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Fees Earned 
or Paid in 
Cash (1)

$

65,000 
45,000 
52,500 
52,500 
71,000 

Stock 
Awards (2)
$ 60,000(4) $ 
  60,000(5)
  60,000(6)
  60,000(7)
  60,000(8)

All Other 
Compensation (3) 
— 
133,520(5)
— 
— 
— 

Total
$ 125,000
  238,520
  112,500
  112,500
  131,000

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 
(5) 

(6) 
(7) 
(8) 

Amounts were earned in connection with serving on our Board and its committees, or committee Chairman 
retainers, each as described below. 
Amounts shown in this column are the aggregate grant date fair value of fully vested stock awards granted 
during  the  year  ended  December  31,  2010  calculated  in  accordance  with  Accounting  Standards 
Codification (ASC) Topic 718. 
Amounts  shown  in  this  column  were  earned  outside  of  serving  on  the  Board  or  its  committees  or  are 
reportable and do not meet the definition of fees earned or paid in cash or stock awards, each as described 
below. 
At December 31, 2010, David B. Apfelberg held options to purchase 52,000 shares of common stock. 
David A. Gollnick resigned from the position of Executive Vice President of Research and Development 
effective March 20, 2009. He continues to be a member of our Board and is a consultant to our Company. 
In connection with his consulting agreement, he was paid $133,250 during the year ended December 31, 
2010. At December 31, 2010, Mr. Gollnick held options to purchase 41,126 shares of common stock. 
At December 31, 2010, W. Mark Lortz held options to purchase 62,000 shares of common stock. 
At December 31, 2010, Timothy J. O’Shea held options to purchase 42,000 shares of common stock. 
At December 31, 2010, Jerry P. Widman held options to purchase 62,000 shares of common stock. 

From  January  1,  2009  through  June  28,  2009,  our  non-employee  directors  earned  an  annual  retainer  of 
$25,000  for  regular  board  meetings.  In  June  2009,  the  Board  reviewed  a  report  from  Mercer,  the  Company’s 
compensation consultant, relating to director compensation. The results of the Mercer report demonstrated that: 

1) 

2) 

3) 

there was a trend away from per meeting fees and towards annual retainers for services rendered 
by Board and Committee members; 

cash compensation for directors was increasing based on the additional duties and responsibilities 
of Board and committee members; and 

there  was  a  trend  away  from  stock  options  to  fully  vested  equity  grants  based  on  a  fixed  dollar 
value rather than a share value. 

11 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For  2010,  our  non-employee  directors  earned  an  annual  retainer  of  $45,000  for  regular  board  meetings; 
$6,000  for  Compensation  Committee  meetings  (for  members  other  than  the  Chairman);  and  $7,500  for  Audit 
Committee  meetings  (for  members  other  than  the  Chairman).  The  Chairman  of  the  Audit  Committee  and  the 
Chairman  of  the  Compensation  Committee,  each  earned  an  annual  retainer  of  $20,000  for  their  services  on  the 
respective  committees.  Our  directors  no  longer  receive  per  meeting  fees  for  board  and  committee  meetings 
regardless of the number of meetings held throughout the year. 

Our 2004 Equity Incentive Plan provides for the automatic grant of options to our non-employee directors. 
Each non-employee director who is appointed to the Board will receive an initial option to purchase 14,000 shares of 
our common stock upon such appointment. Each option to purchase 14,000 shares will have an exercise price equal 
to fair market value on the date of grant and a term of seven years and will become exercisable as to one-third of the 
shares subject to the option on each anniversary of its date of grant, provided the non-employee director remains a 
director on such dates. In addition, each non-employee director who is a director on the date of each Annual Meeting 
of stockholders and has been a director for at least the preceding six months, will receive fully vested Cutera stock 
on an annual basis equivalent to the number of shares represented by the quotient of $60,000 divided by the closing 
stock price of our  common  stock on  the date  of  such  Annual  Meeting. In  May  2010, our non-employee  directors 
received $60,000 of fully vested Cutera stock. 

Code of Ethics 

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of business conduct and ethics. Our Code of Ethics, 
as amended, (the “Code”) reflects our values and the business practices and principles of behavior that support this 
commitment.  The  Code  is  intended  to  satisfy  SEC  rules  for  a  “code  of  ethics”  required  by  Section  406  of  the 
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as well as the Nasdaq listing standards requirement for a “code of conduct.” The Code 
is an Exhibit to our Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 27, 2004, was amended and restated on November 19, 
2009, and is available on the Company’s website at www.cutera.com. We will post any amendment to the Code, as 
well as any waivers that are required to be disclosed by the rules of the SEC or Nasdaq, on our website. 

Corporate Governance Committee Guidelines 

We do not have a Corporate Governance Committee but our Board adopted a corporate governance policy 
and corporate governance guidelines in October 2010. Our Board, together with our committees, fulfills the role that 
a  Corporate  Governance  Committee  would  provide  and  work  with  management  on  corporate  governance  matters 
generally. 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation 

No  member  of  our  Compensation  Committee,  nor  any  of  our  executive  officers,  has  a  relationship  that 
would constitute an interlocking relationship with executive officers or directors of another entity. No Compensation 
Committee member is an officer or employee of Cutera. 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions 

In the Company’s last fiscal year, and except for compensation paid to its directors and executive officers 
for services performed in such roles, and except as provided in the following paragraph, there has not been, nor is 
there currently proposed, any transaction or series of similar transactions to which the Company was or is to be a 
party in which the amount involved exceeds $120,000 and in which any director, executive officer, holder of more 
than  5%  of  our  common  stock  or  any  member  of  their  immediate  families  had  or  will  have  a  direct  or  indirect 
material interest. 

We have a consulting agreement with David A. Gollnick pursuant to which Mr. Gollnick is compensated 
for services that he provides to us, including product development and clinical support. Payments to Mr. Gollnick 
under this agreement in 2010 and 2009 were $133,520 and $110,400, respectively. 

12 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Review, Approval or Ratification of Related Party Transactions 

As provided by our Audit Committee charter, our Audit Committee must review and approve in advance 
any  proposed  related  party  transaction.  All  of  our  directors  and  officers  are  required  to  report  to  our  Audit 
Committee  any  such  related  party  transaction  prior  to  its  completion.  We  have  not  adopted  specific  standards  for 
approval of related party transactions, but instead our Audit Committee reviews each such transaction on a case-by-
case basis. Our policy is to require that all executive compensation-related matters be recommended and approved 
by  our  Compensation  Committee  as  provided  by  our  Compensation  Committee  charter  and  be  reported  under 
applicable SEC rules. 

Family Relationships 

There are no family relationships among any of our directors or executive officers. 

Indemnification Agreements 

Each of our directors and officers has an indemnification agreement with our Company. 

Communications with the Board by Stockholders 

Stockholders wishing to communicate with the Board or with an individual Board member concerning the 
Company may do so by writing to the Board or to the particular Board member, and mailing the correspondence to: 
Attention: Board of Directors, c/o Secretary, Cutera, Inc., 3240 Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, California 94005-1021. 
The envelope should indicate that it contains a stockholder communication. All such stockholder communications 
will be forwarded to the director or directors to whom the communications are addressed. 

13 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE 

The material in this section is not deemed filed with the SEC and is not incorporated by reference in any 
filing of our Company under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, whether made before 
or after the date of this Proxy Statement and irrespective of any general incorporation language in those filings. 

The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors is comprised solely of independent directors (as defined by 
Nasdaq  rules)  who  were  all  appointed  by  the  Board  of  Directors.  The  Audit  Committee  operates  pursuant  to  a 
written  charter  adopted  by  the  Board  of  Directors,  a  copy  of  which  can  be  found  on  our  website.  The  Audit 
Committee  reviews  and  assesses  the  adequacy  of  its  charter  on  an  annual  basis.  As  more  fully  described  in  the 
charter, the purpose of the Audit Committee is to provide general oversight of Cutera’s financial reporting, integrity 
of financial statements, internal controls and internal audit functions. The Audit Committee has authority to retain 
outside legal, accounting or other advisors as its deems necessary to carry out its duties and to require Cutera to pay 
for such expenditures. 

The  Audit  Committee  monitors  Cutera’s  external  audit  process,  including  the  scope,  fees,  auditor 
independence matters and the extent to which the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm may be retained 
to perform non-audit services. The Audit Committee has responsibility for the appointment, compensation, retention 
and oversight of Cutera’s Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. The Audit Committee also reviews the 
results of the external audit work with regard to the adequacy and appropriateness of Cutera’s financial, accounting 
and internal controls over financial reporting. In addition, the Audit Committee generally oversees Cutera’s internal 
compliance  programs.  The  Audit  Committee  members  are  not  all  professional  accountants  or  auditors,  and  their 
function  is  not  intended  to  duplicate  or  to  certify  the  activities  of  management  and  the  Independent  Registered 
Public  Accounting  Firm,  nor  can  the Audit  Committee  certify  that  the  Independent  Registered  Public  Accounting 
Firm is “independent” under applicable rules. 

The  Audit  Committee  provides  advice,  counsel  and  direction  to  management  and  the  Independent 
Registered Public Accounting Firm on matters for which it is responsible based on the information it receives from 
management and the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and the experience of its members in business, 
financial and accounting matters. 

Management  is  responsible  for  the  preparation  and  integrity  of  Cutera’s  financial  statements,  accounting 
and  financial  reporting  processes  and  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  for  compliance  with  applicable 
accounting standards, laws and regulations. 

Cutera’s Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, is responsible for 
performing  an  independent  audit  of  Cutera’s  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  generally  accepted  auditing 
standards and expressing an opinion in its report on those financial statements, and for expressing an opinion on the 
effectiveness of Cutera’s internal control over financial reporting. 

In this context, the Audit Committee hereby reports as follows: 

• 

• 

The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements for 2010 with 
Cutera’s management. 

The Audit Committee has discussed with the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm the 
matters required to be discussed by SAS 61 (Codification of Statements on Auditing Standard, AU 
380), SAS 99 (Consideration of Fraud in a Financial Statement Audit) and SEC rules discussed in 
Final Releases Nos. 33-8183 and 33-8183a. 

The Audit Committee has received written disclosures and a letter from the Independent Registered Public 
Accounting  Firm,  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP,  pursuant  to  Rule  3526,  Communication  with  Audit  Committees 
Concerning  Independence,  of  the  Public  Company  Accounting  Oversight  Board  (“PCAOB”),  and  has  discussed 
with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP its independence. 

14 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
• 

• 

• 

• 

The Audit Committee has discussed with the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm the 
overall scope and plans for its audit. 

The Audit Committee has met with the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, with and 
without  management  present,  to  discuss  the  results  of  its  examinations,  its  evaluations  of  our 
internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  and  to  discuss  the  overall  quality  of  our  financial 
reporting. 

The Audit Committee has considered whether the provision by the Independent Registered Public 
Accounting Firm of non-audit services is compatible with maintaining its independence. 

Based on the review and discussion referred to above, the Audit Committee has approved that the 
audited  financial  statements  and  the  report  of  management  on  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting  be  included  in  Cutera’s  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  for  the  fiscal  year  ended 
December 31, 2010. 

The foregoing report is provided by the undersigned members of the Audit Committee. 

W. Mark Lortz 
Timothy J. O’Shea 
Jerry P. Widman 

15 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PROPOSAL ONE—ELECTION OF DIRECTORS 

Classes of the Board of Directors 

Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides that our Board shall be divided into three 
classes designated as Class I, Class II and Class III, respectively, with the classes of directors serving for staggered 
three-year terms. Our Board currently consists of six directors, divided among the three classes as follows: 

• 

• 

• 

two Class I directors, Kevin P. Connors and David A. Gollnick, whose terms expire at our Annual 
Meeting of Stockholder to be held in 2011; 

two  Class  II  directors,  David  B.  Apfelberg  and  Timothy  J.  O’Shea,  whose  terms  expire  at  our 
Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in 2012; and 

two  Class  III  directors  W.  Mark  Lortz  and  Jerry  P.  Widman,  whose  terms  expire  at  the  Annual 
Meeting of Stockholders to be held in 2013. 

The name of each member of the Board, the class in which he or she serves, and his or her age as of the 

Record Date, principal occupation and length of service on the Board are as follows: 

Name 

Class I Directors 
Kevin P. Connors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
David A. Gollnick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Class II Directors 
Timothy J. O’Shea(1)(2) . . . . . . . . .    
David B. Apfelberg(1) . . . . . . . . . . .    

Class III Directors 
W. Mark Lortz (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Jerry P. Widman (1)(2) . . . . . . . . . . .    

Term 
Expires

2011 
2011 

2012 
2012 

2013 

2013 

(1)  Member of the Compensation Committee. 
(2)  Member of the Audit Committee. 

Director Nominees 

  Age 

Principal Occupation 

  Director Since

49 
47 

  President and Chief Executive Officer   
  Former Executive Vice President of 
Research and Development 

58 
69 

  Managing Director, Oxo Capital 
  Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery, 
Stanford University Medical Center 

59 

  Former Chief Executive Officer, 

TheraSense, Inc. 

68 

  Former Chief Financial Officer, 

Ascension Health 

1998 
1998 

2004 
1998 

2004 

2004 

The Board has nominated Kevin P. Connors and David A. Gollnick for re-election as Class I directors. 

Kevin P. Connors has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer and as a member of our board of 
directors since our inception in August 1998. From May 1996 to June 1998, Mr. Connors served as President and 
General Manager of Coherent Medical Group, a unit of Coherent Inc., which manufactures lasers, optics and related 
accessories. We believe Mr. Connors’ qualifications to serve on our board of directors include, his knowledge of and 
leadership  experience,  in  the  aesthetic  medical  equipment  industry  prior  to  joining  Cutera  and  the  substantial 
understanding  of  the  Company  and  its  operations  that  he  has  gained  while  serving  as  President,  Chief  Executive 
Officer and director of the Company since inception. 

16 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
David A. Gollnick has served as a member of our Board since our inception in August 1998. He served as 
our Vice President of Research and Development from August 1998 until April 2007, and served as our Executive 
Vice President of Research and Development from April 2007 until March 2009. From June 1996 to July 1998, Mr. 
Gollnick was Vice President of Research and Development at Coherent Medical Group, a unit of Coherent Inc. Mr. 
Gollnick  holds  a  B.S.  in  Mechanical  Engineering  from  Fresno  State  University.  We  believe  Mr.  Gollnick’s 
qualifications  to  serve  on  our  board  of  directors  include  his  technical  experience  in  researching  and  developing 
products  for  the  aesthetic  medical  equipment  industry  and  his  understanding  of  our  employees,  products  and 
operations. 

If  elected  to  our  board  of  directors,  directors  Kevin  P.  Connors  and  David  A.  Gollnick  would  each  hold 
office  as  a  Class  I  director  until  our  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders  to  be  held  in  2014  or  until  his  earlier 
resignation, removal, or death. 

Board of Directors’ Recommendation 

THE  BOARD  OF  DIRECTORS  RECOMMENDS  THAT  YOU  VOTE  “FOR”  EACH  OF  THE 

TWO NOMINEES FOR CLASS I DIRECTOR LISTED ABOVE. 

Directors Whose Terms Extend Beyond the 2011 Annual Meeting 

David B. Apfelberg, MD has served as a member of our board of directors since November 1998. Since 
1980,  Dr.  Apfelberg  has  held  various  roles  at  the  Stanford  University  Medical  Center,  and  currently  serves  as  a 
Clinical  Professor of Plastic  Surgery.  Since  1987,  Dr. Apfelberg has  also  been  a  consultant  for  entrepreneurs  and 
venture  capital  companies  in  the  areas  of  medical  devices  and  medicine.  From  June  1991  to  May  2001,  Dr. 
Apfelberg was Director of the Plastic Surgery Center in Atherton, California. Dr. Apfelberg holds both a B.M.S., 
Bachelor  of  Medical  Science,  and  an  M.D.  from  Northwestern  University  Medical  School.  We  believe  Dr. 
Apfelberg’s  qualifications  to  serve  on  our  board  of  directors  include  his  medical  expertise,  understanding  of  our 
products, and his knowledge of the aesthetics market generally. 

Timothy  J.  O’Shea  has  served  as  a  member  of  our  board  of  directors  since  April  2004.  Mr.  O’Shea  has 
been with Oxo Capital since 2008 and serves as a managing director. From 1995 to 2008, he served in a variety of 
management positions at Boston Scientific, including Corporate Vice President of Business Development from 2000 
to 2008. Mr. O’Shea holds a B.A. in history from the University of Detroit. We believe Mr. O’Shea’s qualifications 
to serve on our board of directors include his corporate marketing knowledge as well as his diverse experience in the 
medical device industry working for a large medical device company. 

W. Mark Lortz has served as a member of our board of directors since June 2004. Mr. Lortz served as the 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of TheraSense until June of 2004 after its acquisition by Abbott 
Laboratories.  Prior  to  TheraSense,  Mr.  Lortz  held  several  positions  at  LifeScan,  including  Vice  President, 
Operations and Group Vice President, Worldwide Business Operations. Prior to LifeScan, Mr. Lortz had 18 years of 
experience with the General Electric Company in several divisions. Mr. Lortz currently serves as a member of the 
board of directors of two privately-held companies in the healthcare industry. Within the past five years, Mr. Lortz 
also served on the board of directors of NeuroMetrix, a publicly-traded manufacturer of neurological diagnostic and 
therapeutic devices, and IntraLase, a manufacturer of lasers for the medical industry and for eye surgery, which was 
acquired  by  Advanced  Medical  Optics.  Mr.  Lortz holds  an  M.B.A.  in Management  from  Xavier University  and  a 
B.S. in Engineering Science from Iowa State University. We believe Mr. Lortz’s qualifications to serve on our board 
of  directors  include  his  executive  leadership  and  management  experience  as  a  former  Chief  Executive  Officer,  as 
well as his experience serving on the boards of other public and private companies. 

Jerry P. Widman has served as a member of our board of directors since March 2004. From 1982 to 2001, 
Mr. Widman served as the Chief Financial Officer of Ascension Health, a not-for-profit multi-hospital system. Mr. 
Widman  currently  serves  as  a  member  of  the  board  of  directors  of  three  other  privately-held  companies  in  the 
healthcare  industry.  Within  the  past  five  years,  Mr.  Widman  also  served  on  the  board  of  directors  of  ArthroCare 
Corporation, United Surgical Partners International and the Trizetto Group. Mr. Widman holds a B.B.A. from Case 
Western Reserve University, an M.B.A. from the University of Denver, and a J.D. from Cleveland State University 
and  is  a  Certified  Public  Accountant.  We  believe  Mr.  Widman’s  qualifications  to  serve  on  our  board  of  directors 
include his financial expertise and prior experience as a Chief Financial Officer, as well as his experience serving on 
the boards of various public and private companies. 

17 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PROPOSAL TWO—NON-BINDING VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 

General 

The recently enacted Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the “Dodd-
Frank Act”) enables our stockholders to vote to approve, on an advisory or non-binding basis, the compensation of 
our  Named  Executive  Officers  as  disclosed  in  accordance  with  the  SEC’s  rules  in  the  “Executive  Compensation” 
section  of  this  proxy  statement  beginning  on  page 23  below.  This  proposal,  commonly  known  as  a  “say-on-pay” 
proposal,  gives  our  stockholders  the  opportunity  to  express  their  views  on  our  Named  Executive  Officers’ 
compensation  as  a  whole.  This  vote  is  not  intended  to  address  any  specific  item  of  compensation  or  any  specific 
named  executive  officer,  but  rather  the  overall  compensation  of  all  of  our  Named  Executive  Officers  and  the 
philosophy, policies and practices described in this proxy statement. 

The say-on-pay vote is advisory, and therefore not binding on the Company, the Compensation Committee 
or our Board. The say-on-pay vote will, however, provide information to us regarding investor sentiment about our 
executive  compensation  philosophy,  policies  and  practices,  which  the  Compensation  Committee  will  be  able  to 
consider  when  determining  executive  compensation  for  the  remainder  of  the  current  fiscal  year  and  beyond.  Our 
Board  and  our  Compensation  Committee  value  the  opinions  of  our  stockholders  and  to  the  extent  there  is  any 
significant  vote  against  the  named  executive  officer  compensation  as  disclosed  in  this  proxy  statement,  we  will 
consider  our  stockholders’  concerns  and  the  Compensation  Committee  will  evaluate  whether  any  actions  are 
necessary to address those concerns. 

Summary of 2010 Executive Compensation Program 

Following is a summary of some of the key points of our 2010 executive compensation program: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The  primary  objectives  of  our  compensation  programs  are  that  they  be  fair,  objective  and 
consistent across the employee population, that compensation be directly and substantially linked 
to measurable corporate and individual performance and that compensation remains competitive, 
so that we can attract, motivate, retain and reward the key employees whose knowledge, skills and 
performance are necessary for our success. 

We  seek  to  foster  a  culture  where  individual  performance  is  aligned  with  organizational 
objectives. 

We evaluate and reward our Named Executive Officers based on the comparable industry specific 
and general market compensation for their respective positions in the company and an evaluation 
of their contributions to the achievement of short-and long-term organizational goals. 

Executive compensation is reviewed annually by our Compensation Committee, and adjustments 
are made to reflect performance-based factors and competitive conditions. 

Our Named Executive Officers are compensated with cash, equity and non-equity incentives, and 
other customary employee benefits. 

Our  Named  Executive Officers’  have  Change of  Control  and  Severance  Agreements  and  except 
for these Change of Control and Severance Agreements, we do not have employment agreements 
with any of our Named Executive Officers. 

See the “Executive Compensation” section beginning on page 23 below for more information. 

Cutera believes that the information provided above and within the Executive Compensation section of this 
proxy statement demonstrates that it’s executive compensation program was designed appropriately and is working 
to ensure management’s interests are aligned with our stockholders’ interests to support long-term value creation. 

Accordingly, we ask our stockholders to vote “FOR” the following resolution at the Annual Meeting: 

18 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
“RESOLVED,  that  the  Company’s  stockholders  approve,  on  an  advisory  basis,  the  compensation  of  the 
Named  Executive  Officers,  as  disclosed  in  the  Company’s  Proxy  Statement  for  the  Annual  Meeting  of 
Stockholders  pursuant  to  the  compensation  disclosure  rules  of  the  Securities  and  Exchange  Commission, 
including  the  Compensation  Discussion  and  Analysis,  the  compensation  tables  and  the  other  related 
disclosure.” 

Board of Directors’ Recommendation 

THE  BOARD  OF  DIRECTORS  RECOMMENDS  THAT  YOU  VOTE  “FOR”  THE  ADVISORY 

(NON-BINDING) VOTE APPROVING EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION. 

19 

 
 
PROPOSAL THREE—NON-BINDING VOTE ON THE FREQUENCY OF EXECUTIVE 
COMPENSATION VOTING 

The Dodd-Frank Act also enables our stockholders to indicate, at least once every six years, how frequently 
we should seek a non-binding vote on the compensation of our Named Executive Officers, as disclosed pursuant to 
the SEC’s compensation disclosure rules, such as Proposal Two beginning on page 18 of this proxy statement. By 
voting on this Proposal Three, stockholders may indicate whether they would prefer a non-binding vote on Named 
Executive Officer compensation once every one, two, or three years. 

After  careful  consideration,  our  Board  of  Directors  has  determined  that  a  non-binding  vote  on  executive 
compensation  that  occurs  triennially  is  appropriate  for  the  Company,  and  therefore  our  Board  of  Directors 
recommends that you vote for a three-year period between the non-binding vote on executive compensation. 

In  formulating  its  recommendation,  our  Board  of  Directors  considered  that  given  the  nature  of  our 
compensation programs, a triennial vote would be sufficient for our stockholders to provide us with their input on 
our compensation philosophy, policies and practices. Our compensation programs do not change significantly from 
year-to-year  and  do  not  contain  any  significant  risks  that  we  believe  would  be  of  concern  to  our  stockholders.  A 
triennial  approach  provides  regular  input  by  stockholders,  while  allowing  time  to  evaluate  the  effects  of  our 
compensation  program  on  performance  over  a  longer  period.  We  understand  that  our  stockholders  may  have 
different views as to what is the best approach in this regard, and we look forward to hearing from our stockholders 
on this Proposal. 

You may cast your vote on your preferred voting frequency by choosing the option of one year, two years, 

three years or abstain from voting when you vote in response to the resolution set forth below: 

“RESOLVED, that the option of once every one year, two years, or three years that receives the highest 
number of  votes  cast  for  this  resolution will  be determined  to  be  the preferred frequency  with which  the 
Company is to hold a stockholder vote to approve the compensation of the Named Executive Officers, as 
disclosed  pursuant  to  the  compensation  disclosure  rules  of  the  Securities  and  Exchange  Commission, 
including  the  Compensation  Discussion  and  Analysis,  the  compensation  tables  and  the  other  related 
disclosure.” 

The  option  of  one  year,  two  years  or  three  years  that  receives  the  highest  number  of  votes  cast  by 
stockholders  will  be  the  frequency  for  the  advisory  vote  on  executive  compensation  that  has  been  selected  by 
stockholders.  However,  because  this  vote  is  advisory  and  not  binding  on  the  Company,  the  Compensation 
Committee or our Board may decide that it is in the best interests of our stockholders and the Company to hold an 
advisory vote on executive compensation more or less frequently than the option approved by our stockholders. 

Board of Directors’ Recommendation 

THE  BOARD  OF  DIRECTORS  RECOMMENDS  A  TRIENNIAL  VOTE  AS  THE  FREQUENCY 
WITH  WHICH  STOCKHOLDERS  ARE  PROVIDED  AN  ADVISORY  (NON-BINDING)  VOTE  ON 
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION. 

20 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PROPOSAL FOUR—RATIFICATION OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP AS OUR INDEPENDENT 
REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 

The  Audit  Committee  of  the  Board  has  selected  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP  as  the  Independent  Registered  Public 
Accounting Firm to perform the audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 
31,  2011.  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP  audited  the  Company’s  consolidated  financial  statements  for  the  fiscal  years  2001 
through 2010. 

The  Board  is  asking  the  stockholders  to  ratify  the  selection  of  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP  as  the  Company’s 
Independent  Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm  for  2011.  Although  not  required  by  law,  by  rules  of  NASDAQ,  or  by  the 
Company’s bylaws, the Board is submitting the selection of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to the stockholders for ratification as a 
matter of good corporate practice. Even if the selection is ratified, the Audit Committee in its discretion may select a different 
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm at any time during the year if it determines that such a change would be in the 
best interests of the Company and its stockholders. 

Representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP are expected to be present at the Annual Meeting. They will have an 
opportunity  to  make  a  statement  if  they  desire  to  do  so  and  will  be  available  to  respond  to  appropriate  questions  from  the 
Company’s stockholders. 

Board of Directors’ Recommendation 

THE  BOARD  OF  DIRECTORS  RECOMMENDS  THAT  YOU  VOTE  FOR  THE  RATIFICATION  OF  THE 
SELECTION  OF  PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS  LLP  AS  THE  COMPANY’S  INDEPENDENT  REGISTERED 
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM FOR 2011. 

Audit and Non-Audit Services 

The  Audit  Committee  is  directly  responsible  for  the  appointment,  compensation,  and  oversight  of  the  Company’s 
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. In addition to retaining PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to audit the Company’s 
consolidated financial statements for 2010, the Audit Committee retained PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to provide other auditing 
and  advisory  services  in  2010.  The  Audit  Committee  understands  the  need  for  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP  to  maintain 
objectivity and independence in its audits of the Company’s financial statements. The Audit Committee has reviewed all non-
audit  services  provided  by  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP  in  2010  and  has  concluded  that  the  provision  of  such  services  was 
compatible with maintaining PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP’s independence in the conduct of its auditing functions. 

To  help  ensure  the  independence  of  the  Independent  Registered  Public  Accounting  Firm,  the  Audit  Committee  has 
adopted  a  policy  for  the  pre-approval  of  all audit  and  non-audit services to  be  performed  for the  Company  by its  Independent 
Registered Public Accounting Firm. Pursuant to this policy, all audit and non-audit services to be performed by the Independent 
Registered Public Accounting Firm must be approved in advance by the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee may delegate to 
one or more of its members the authority to grant the required approvals, provided that any exercise of such authority is presented 
to the full Audit Committee at its next regularly scheduled meeting. 

All of the services provided by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP described in the table below were approved by the Audit 

Committee. 

The aggregate fees incurred by the Company for audit and non-audit services in 2010 and 2009 were as follows: 

Service Category 
Audit Fees(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
Audit Related Fees(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
Tax Fees(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
All Other Fees(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   

2010 
$  507,150 
11,200 
  102,900 
1,500 
$  622,750 

2009(5)
$ 514,750
—
—
1,500
$ 516,250

(1) 

In accordance with the SEC’s definitions and rules, audit fees are comprised of billed and unbilled fees for professional 
services related to the audit of financial statements and internal control over financial reporting for the Company’s 2010 
and 2009 fiscal years as included in the annual report on Form 10-K; and the review of financial statements for interim 
periods included in the quarterly reports on Form 10-Q within those years. 

(2)  Audit-related  fees  are  fees  for  services  that  are  normally  provided  by  the  accountant  in  connection  with  statutory  and 

regulatory filings or engagements; 
Tax fees are fees for tax compliance services; 

(3) 
(4)  All other fees relates to a subscription fee for a PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP online service used for accounting research 

(5) 

purposes. 
The company revised the audit and non-audit fee disclosure amounts for 2009 to present data that is consistent with the 
2010 disclosure, which was based on fees billed and unbilled for the fiscal years 2010 and 2009. The data presented in the 
prior year’s proxy was based on fees incurred during the respective years. 

21 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 

Set forth below is certain information as of the Record Date concerning our Named Executive Officers who 

were with the Company as of December 31, 2010. 

Name 
Kevin P. Connors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Ronald J. Santilli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

  Age 
49 
51 

  President, Chief Executive Officer and Director 
  Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 

Position(s) 

Further information regarding Kevin P. Connors is provided above under “Director Nominees.” 

Ronald  J.  Santilli  has  served  as  our  Chief  Financial  Officer  since  September  2001  and  as  our  Executive 
Vice President since April 2007. From September 2001 to April 2007, Mr. Santilli served as our Vice President of 
Finance and Administration. From April 2001 to August 2001, Mr. Santilli served as Senior Director of Financial 
Planning and Accounting at Lumenis, a manufacturer of medical lasers. From May 1993 to March 2001, Mr. Santilli 
held several positions at Coherent Inc., including Sales Operations Manager, Controller of the Medical Group and, 
most  recently,  Director of  Finance  and  Administration. Mr.  Santilli  holds  a  B.S.  in Business  Administration  from 
San Jose State University and an M.B.A. in Finance from Golden Gate University. 

Compensation Discussion and Analysis 

Overview 

The primary objectives of our compensation programs are: 

• 

• 

• 

that they be fair, objective and consistent across the employee population; 

that  compensation  be  directly  and  substantially  linked  to  measurable  corporate  and  individual 
performance; and 

that  compensation  remains  competitive,  so  that  we  can  attract,  motivate,  retain  and  reward  the  key 
employees whose knowledge, skills and performance are necessary for our success. 

We  seek  to  foster  a  culture  where  individual  performance  is  aligned  with  organizational  objectives.  We 
evaluate and reward our Named Executive Officers based on the comparable industry specific and general market 
compensation  for  their  respective  positions  in  the  company  and  an  evaluation  of  their  contributions  to  the 
achievement  of  short-and  long-term  organizational  goals.  Executive  compensation  is  reviewed  annually  by  our 
Compensation  Committee,  and  adjustments  are  made  to  reflect  performance-based  factors  and  competitive 
conditions. 

Role of Our Compensation Committee 

Compensation Committee Charter 

The Compensation Committee establishes compensation for our two Named Executive Officers – our Chief 
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, and administers our equity incentive plans, which are currently the 
2004  Equity  Incentive  Plan  and  the  2004  Employee  Stock  Purchase  Plan.  The  Compensation  Committee  has  a 
written  charter,  which  was  adopted  by  our  Board  in  January  2004,  and  was  amended  in  April  2007  and  in  April 
2008. A copy of this charter, as amended, can be found on our website, which is www.cutera.com. 

22 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Duties of the Compensation Committee 

The responsibilities of the Compensation Committee include: 

(i) 

Establishing the following for the Named Executive Officers and such other officers as appropriate: 
(a) annual base salary, (b) annual incentive bonus, which may include the setting of specific goals and amounts, (c) 
equity compensation, (d) agreements for employment, severance and change-of-control, and (e) any other benefits, 
compensation or arrangements, other than benefits generally available to our employees. 

(ii)  Reviewing  and  making  recommendations  to  our  Board  of  Directors,  at  such  intervals  as  may  be 
decided  by  the  Compensation  Committee  from  time  to  time,  regarding  (a)  general  compensation  goals  and 
guidelines for our employees and the criteria by which bonuses and stock compensation awards to our employees 
are determined; and, (b) other policies and plans for the provision of compensation to our employees, directors and 
consultants. 

(iii)  Acting as Administrator of our 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and 

any other equity compensation plans adopted by our Board. 

(iv)  Reviewing  and  making  recommendations  to  our  Board  with  respect  to  policies  relating  to  the 

issuance of equity incentives to employees, consultants and directors. 

(v)  Evaluating the compensation of the independent members of our Board. 

(vi)  Preparing the report that follows this Compensation Discussion and Analysis. 

Compensation Committee Members 

The  members  of  our  Compensation  Committee  are  appointed  by  our  Board.  The  members  of  that 
committee as of the Record Date were Dr. David B. Apfelberg (chairman) and Mr. Jerry P. Widman. On April 22, 
2011, the Board appointed Timothy J. O’Shea as a member of the Compensation Committee. Each member of the 
Compensation Committee is an “outside director” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, a 
“non-employee  director”  for  purposes  of  Rule  16b-3  under  the  Exchange  Act  and  satisfies  the  independence 
requirements imposed by Nasdaq. 

Role of the Compensation Committee and its Consultant in Setting Executive Compensation 

Our Compensation Committee establishes the compensation packages for our Named Executive Officers to 
ensure  consistency  with  market  compensation  rates  for  similar  positions,  our  compensation  philosophy  and 
corporate governance guidelines. Decisions are made only by the directors who are “outside directors” for purposes 
of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code and “non-employee directors” for purposes of Rule 16b-3 under the 
Exchange Act. 

With  the  SEC’s  recent  reforms  relating  to  executive  compensation  disclosure,  our  Compensation 
Committee  has  assumed  an  active  role  in  reviewing  market  data  and  working  with  a  compensation  consultant  on 
executive compensation matters. We worked with a third-party compensation consultant in March 2009, Mercer, to 
assist us in establishing executive compensation. Because certain components of executive compensation—such as 
bonus targets—are driven by operational priorities, as to which management has greater insight than the Board or 
the  Compensation  Committee,  the  Compensation  Committee  has  directed  management  to  interface  with  the 
Committee and the compensation consultant to help establish appropriate targets. 

Due to the significant cost associated with services provided by a compensation consultant, we may decide 
not to engage a compensation consultant each year, but rather once every few years. This decision shall be evaluated 
regularly and will be based on the Compensation Committee’s evaluation of whether the prior report obtained, along 
with  increased  disclosures  of  other  public  companies  from  our  Peer  Group  relating  to  executive  compensation 
disclosure,  is  sufficient  to  allow  them  to  make  informed  and  reasonable  decisions  with  regard  to  executive-
compensation matters. 

23 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Role of our Executives in Setting Compensation 

On  occasion,  the  Compensation  Committee  meets  with  members  of  our  management  team,  including 
Messrs.  Kevin  Connors  and  Ron  Santilli,  to  obtain  recommendations  with  respect  to  Company  compensation 
programs,  practices  and  packages  for  executives,  other  employees  and  directors.  Management  may  make 
recommendations  to  the  Compensation  Committee  on  all  components  of  compensation.  The  Compensation 
Committee considers, but is not bound to and does not always accept, management’s recommendations with respect 
to  these  matters.  The  Compensation  Committee  has  the  ultimate  authority  to  make  decisions  with  respect  to  the 
compensation of our Named Executive Officers and does not delegate any of its compensation functions to others. 

Market Benchmarks 

In developing its recommendations for annual compensation packages for our Named Executive Officers, 
our Compensation Committee worked with Mercer to gather market data and identify an appropriate peer group of 
public  companies.  The  members  of  that  peer  group  are  Athenahealth,  Atrion  Corporation,  Candela  (acquired  by 
Syneron  Medical,  Ltd.),  Cryolife,  Cynosure,  Emageon,  Exactech,  I-Flow  Corporation,  Lifecore  Biomedical, 
Medecision,  Meridian  Bioscience,  Osteotech,  Palomar  Medical  Technologies,  Quadramed,  RTI  Biologics,  Solta 
Medical,  Transcend  Services,  and  Tutogen  Medical  (the  “Peer  Group”).  Our  Compensation  Committee  used  this 
data  in  developing  its  recommendations  for  annual  compensation  for  our  Named  Executive  Officers,  but  also 
ensured that its recommendations were consistent with the philosophy underlying our compensation programs. 

Compensation Components 

Our  Named  Executive  Officers  are  compensated  with  cash,  equity  and  non-equity  incentives,  and  other 

customary employee benefits. 

Cash  Compensation.  Cash  compensation  consists  of  base  salary,  participation  in  a  discretionary  bonus 
program  and  participation  in  a  discretionary  profit-sharing  plan.  Our  cash  compensation  goals  for  our  Named 
Executive Officers are based upon the following principals: 

•  Salary should generally be set at or above the 50th percentile of the Peer Group; 

•  Salary should be positioned to reflect each individual’s experience, performance and potential; 

•  A significant portion of cash compensation should be “at risk;” and 

•  The  amount  of  discretionary  bonuses  payable  in  any  quarter  is  based  on  revenue  growth,  compared 
with the same quarter in the prior year, and the operating profit before stock-based compensation and 
non-operational expenses, or “Adjusted Operating Profit.” Further, discretionary bonuses are payable 
only if we have an Adjusted Operating Profit for that quarter. 

Base  Salary  and  Total  Target  Cash  Compensation.  Total  target  cash  compensation  for  each  Named 
Executive  Officer  includes  his  annual  base  salary,  annual  target  bonus  level  (described  below)  and  annual  profit-
sharing payments. 

In 2010, our Compensation Committee did not retain a third-party compensation consultant to assist with 
establishing compensation for our Named Executive Officers. During 2009, our Compensation Committee retained 
Mercer, to assist it with establishing compensation for our Named Executive Officers and paid them approximately 
$68,000 in consulting fees. Mercer does not provide any other services to us other than the services it performs at 
the  request  of  the  Compensation  Committee.  Mercer  assisted  the  Compensation  Committee’s  executive 
compensation-setting process by: 

24 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
• 

• 

• 

assessing  the  competitiveness  of  our  compensation  arrangements  for  the  Named  Executive  Officers 
and making recommendations regarding equity grants to these individuals; 

assessing  the  competitiveness  of  our  compensation  arrangements  for  the  members  of  our  Board  and 
making recommendations regarding the compensation program’s design and levels; and 

reviewing and providing comments on the structure of the stock option exchange program. 

In  2009,  Mercer  concluded  that  our  executive  total  target  cash  compensation  program  was  well  aligned 
with the practices of the broader medical device industry and direct peers. For 2010, the annual base salary and total 
target cash compensation of our Named Executive Officers remained the same as it was in 2009. 

Discretionary  Bonus  Program.  In  addition  to  base  salary  compensation,  we  had  a  discretionary  bonus 
program in 2010 for our Named Executive Officers and other personnel pursuant to which cash payments may be 
made quarterly based on the Company’s performance in the then-preceding quarter. The annual target bonus levels 
as a percentage of base salary for the Named Executive Officers effective through December 31, 2010, remained the 
same as that set by our Board in February 2008 at 60% for Mr. Connors and 45% for Mr. Santilli. Payments made 
under the discretionary bonus program are at the Board’s option. We, however, have historically made payments in 
accordance with this program. 

Target  bonuses  in  2010  were  calculated  based  upon  a  matrix  of  revenue  growth  and  Adjusted  Operating 
Profit. For example, at 10% revenue growth and 10% Adjusted Operating Profit, an individual would receive 100% 
of his or her target bonus. At 15% revenue growth and 15% Adjusted Operating Profit, an individual would receive 
150% of his or her target bonus. There was no bonus earned by each of our Named Executive Officers in 2010 as we 
did not have a profitable quarter. 

Discretionary Profit-Sharing Program. We also have a discretionary profit sharing program for our Named 
Executive  Officers  and  other  employees  pursuant  to  which  cash  payments  may  be  made  quarterly.  Target  profit-
sharing payments are calculated based upon half of the quarterly pre-tax Adjusted Operating Profit percentage (pre-
tax Adjusted Operating Profit divided by revenue) multiplied by the Named Executive Officer’s gross salary earned 
during that quarter. There were no profit-sharing payments made to our Named Executive Officers in 2010 because 
we did not have an Adjusted Operating Profit in any quarter. 

Long-Term  Incentive  Program.  We  believe  that  equity-based  compensation  promotes  and  encourages 
long-term successful performance by our Named Executive Officers that is aligned with the organization’s goals and 
the generation of stockholder value. Our equity compensation goals for our Named Executive Officers and others 
are based upon the following principals: 

•  Stockholder and executive interests should be aligned; 

•  Key  and  high-performing  employees,  who  have  a  demonstrable  impact  on  our  performance  and  /or 

stockholder value, should be provided this benefit; 

•  The program should be structured to provide meaningful retention incentives to participants; 

•  The  equity  grants  should  reflect  each  individual’s  experience,  performance,  potential  and  be 

comparable to what the Peer Group grants for the respective position; and 

•  Actual awards should be tailored to reflect individual performance and attraction/retention goals. 

25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity  Incentive  Compensation.  Under  our  2004  Equity  Incentive  Plan,  we  are  permitted  to  grant  stock 
options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted stock units, performance shares, and other stock-based 
awards.  Under  that  Plan,  we  grant  options  to  our  officers,  directors  and  employees  to  purchase  shares  of  our 
common stock at an exercise price equal to the fair market value of such stock on the date of grant. The grant date 
for stock options to our Named Executive Officers is typically the date of a regularly scheduled board meeting, or, 
for annual merit grants, on or around June 1 of each year. Our outside directors are granted stock annually on the 
date of our Annual Meeting of stockholders. We have no program, plan or practice to select option grant dates (or 
set  board  meeting  and  annual  stockholder  meeting  dates)  to  correspond  with  the  release  of  material  non-public 
information. 

In  May  2010,  our  Compensation  Committee,  with  the  approval  of  our  non-employee,  outside  directors, 
granted options to Messrs. Connors and Santilli to acquire 120,000 and 55,000 shares of our common stock under 
our 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, respectively. These equity grants are in the form of stock option awards. At the time 
these awards were granted, the unvested stock options of each of our Named Executive Officers had exercise prices 
that were higher than the then-current per-share price of our common stock. Each of the stock option awards had a 
vesting commencement date of June 1, 2010, a term of seven years, and vests as follows: twelve thirty-sixths of the 
total  number  of  shares  subject  to  the  stock  option  shall  vest  one  full  calendar  year  following  the  vesting 
commencement date of June 1, 2010 and one-thirty-sixth of the total number of shares subject to the stock option 
shall  vest  on  the  last  day  of  each  full  calendar  month  thereafter,  until  all  such  shares  have  vested,  subject  to  the 
option holder continuing to provide services to us through each such date. 

Each  of  the  stock  option  awards  described  in  the  preceding  paragraph  was  issued  for  the  purpose  of 
retaining the individual recipient and thus ultimately increasing the value of the Company. In connection with the 
granting of these stock options, stock options to Messrs. Connors and Santilli to acquire 95,000 and 57,000 shares of 
our common stock, respectively, that had exercise prices of $23.75 and $24.46 ─ significantly higher than the then-
current per-share price of our common stock ─ were cancelled. 

In addition, in May 2010, our Compensation Committee, with the approval of our non-employee, outside 
directors, granted Restricted Stock Units (or RSUs) to Messrs. Connors and Santilli to acquire 33,000 and 22,000 
shares of our common stock under our 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, respectively. These RSUs vest as to one-third of 
the shares on each of June 1, 2010, 2011 and 2012. 

We also have a 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan that provides eligible employees with the opportunity 
to purchase shares of our common stock at a 15% discounted price to the lower of the fair market value at either the 
beginning or the end of the applicable offering period. During 2010, our Chief Financial Officer participated in this 
Plan, but our Chief Executive Officer did not participate in this Plan. 

Benefits. We provide the following benefits to our Named Executive Officers generally on the same basis 

as the benefits provided to all employees: 

•  Health, dental and vision insurance; 

•  Life insurance; 

•  Short-and long-term disability; 

• 

401(k) plan, however, in 2009 we discontinued our discretionary employer match on employee 401(k) 
contributions; and 

•  Flexible Spending Accounts. 

These benefits are consistent with those offered by other companies and specifically with those companies 

with which we compete for employees. 

26 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We have Change of Control and Severance Agreements with each of our Named Executive Officers. The 
purpose of these agreements is to provide incentives to our Named Executive Officers to continue their employment 
with the Company and not be distracted by the possibility of loss of employment as a result of an acquisition of the 
Company or for other reasons. 

The  Change  of  Control  and  Severance  Agreements  provide  that  if  a  Named  Executive  Officer’s 
employment with the Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or by the executive for Good Reason 
either  prior  to  3  months  before  or  after  12  months  following  a  Change  of  Control  (as  such  capitalized  terms  are 
defined in the Change of Control and Severance Agreement) of the Company but not in connection with a Change of 
Control, the executive will receive, subject to signing a release of claims in favor of the Company, (i) a lump sum 
severance payment equal to 200% of the annual base salary as in effect immediately prior to such termination for 
our Chief Executive Officer and 100% of the annual base salary as in effect immediately prior to such termination 
for our Chief Financial Officer; and (ii) up to 24 months for our Chief Executive Officer and up to 12 months for our 
Chief Financial Officer of reimbursement for premiums paid for COBRA coverage. 

The Change of Control and Severance Agreements also provide that if an executive’s employment with the 
Company is terminated by the Company without Cause or by the executive for Good Reason and such termination 
occurs within the period beginning 3 months before, and ending 12 months following, a Change of Control of the 
Company  and  in  connection  with  a  Change  of  Control,  the  executive  will  receive,  subject  to  signing  a  release  of 
claims in favor of the Company, (i) a lump sum severance payment equal to 200% of the annual base salary as in 
effect immediately prior to such termination or, if greater, at the level in effect immediately prior to the Change of 
Control for our Chief Executive Officer and 100% of the annual base salary as in effect immediately prior to such 
termination or, if greater, at the level in effect immediately prior to the Change of Control for our Chief Financial 
Officer; (ii) a lump sum severance payment equal to 100% of the executive’s annual target bonus for the fiscal year 
in  which  the  termination  occurs  or,  if  greater,  executive’s  annual  target  bonus  in  effect  immediately  prior  to  the 
Change  of  Control;  (iii)  automatic  vesting  in  full  of  all  outstanding  and  unvested  equity  awards  held  by  the 
executive as of the date of the Change of Control; and (iv) up to 24 months for our Chief Executive Officer and up 
to 12 months for our Chief Financial Officer of reimbursement for premiums paid for COBRA coverage. 

Each Change of Control and Severance Agreement has an initial term of three years, and will extend for an 
additional year unless the Company or the applicable executive provides written notice at least sixty days prior to 
the  third  anniversary  of  the  agreement.  For  purposes  of  these  agreements,  “Cause”  shall  mean  executive’s 
termination only upon (i) executive’s willful failure to substantially perform executive’s duties (subject to notice and 
a  reasonable  period  to  cure),  other  than  a  failure  resulting  from  executive’s  complete  or  partial  incapacity  due  to 
physical or mental illness or impairment; (ii) executive’s willful act which constitutes gross misconduct and which is 
injurious  to  the  Company;  (iii)  executive’s  willful  breach  of  a  material  provision  of  the  Change  of  Control  and 
Severance Agreement (subject to notice and reasonable period to cure); or (iv) executive’s knowing, material and 
willful violation of a federal or state law or regulation applicable to the business of the Company. 

For  purposes  of  these  agreements,  “Good  Reason”  shall  mean  executive’s  termination  of  employment 
within ninety (90) days following the expiration of any cure period following the occurrence of one or more of the 
following, without executive’s consent: (i) a  material reduction in executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities 
relative to duties, position or responsibilities in effect immediately prior to such reduction; (ii) a material reduction 
in  executive’s  base  salary  as  in  effect  immediately  prior  to  such  reduction;  or  (iii)  a  material  change  in  the 
geographic  location  at  which  executive  must  perform  services  (in  other  words,  the  relocation  of  executive  to  a 
facility that is more than fifty (50) miles from executive’s then-current location. 

Based on its review of our change-in-control program in 2009, Mercer determined that it is aligned with the 

practices of our direct peers. 

27 

 
 
 
 
 
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control 

The  following  table  lists  our  Named  Executive  Officers  and  the  estimated  amounts  they  would  have 
become  entitled  to  had  their  employment  with  us  terminated  without  Cause  or  resigns  for  Good  Reason  not  in 
connection with a Change of Control on December 31, 2010. 

Name 
Kevin P. Connors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ronald J. Santilli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Estimated 
Total Value 
of Cash 
Payment 
$  840,000 
$  290,000 

Estimated
Total Value
of Health 
Coverage 
Continuation
15,075
$ 
21,242
$ 

The  following  table  lists  our  Named  Executive  Officers  and  the  estimated  amounts  they  would  have 
become  entitled  to  had  their  employment  with  us  terminated  without  Cause  or  resigns  for  Good  Reason  in 
connection with a Change of Control on December 31, 2010. 

Name 
Kevin P. Connors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Ronald J. Santilli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Estimated
Total Value
of Cash 
Payment
$ 1,092,000 
$ 420,500 

Estimated 
Total Value 
of Health 
Coverage 
Continuation 
15,075 
$
21,242 
$

Value of 
Accelerated
Equity (1)
$ 182,380
$ 121,587

(1) 

We estimate the value of acceleration of unvested options and RSUs held by each of our Named Executive 
Officers based on a share price of $8.29 per share as of December 31, 2010. 

Except for these Change of Control and Severance Agreements, we do not have employment agreements 

with any of our Named Executive Officers. 

Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m) and Limitations on Executive Compensation 

Section 162(m) of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, may limit our ability to 
deduct for United States federal income tax purposes compensation paid to either our Chief Executive Officer or to 
other  highly  paid  executive  officers  in  any  one  fiscal  year  that  is,  for  each  such  person,  in  excess  of  $1,000,000. 
None of our executive officers received any such compensation in excess of this limit during 2010, or any prior year. 

Grants of stock options under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan are not subject to the deduction limitation; 
however,  to  preserve  our  ability  to  deduct  the  compensation  income  associated  with  options  granted  to  such 
executive  officers  pursuant  to  Section  162(m)  of  the  Internal  Revenue  Code,  our  2004  Equity  Incentive  Plan 
provides that no optionee may be granted option(s) to purchase more than 500,000 shares of our common stock in 
any one fiscal year. However, in the fiscal year in which the optionee is hired, an optionee may be granted an option 
to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of our common stock. 

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans 

Our  stockholders  approved  each  of  our  equity  compensation  plans,  including  a  2008  amendment  to  our 
2004 Equity Incentive Plan. The following table provides information regarding common stock that may be issued 
upon  the  exercise  of  options  and  restricted  stock  units  under  our  2004  Equity  Incentive  Plan  as  of  December  31, 
2010. 

28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Number of securities 
to be issued upon 
exercise of 
outstanding options, 
warrants and rights 
(a)

Weighted-average 
exercise price of 
outstanding options, 
warrants and rights 
(b)

Number of securities
remaining available 
for future issuance 
under equity 
compensation plans 
(excluding securities
reflected in column 
(a)) (c)

3,296,419 

$

— 
3,296,419 

$

10.93 

— 
10.93 

1,005,447

—
1,005,447

Plan category 

Equity compensation plans approved 

by security holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Equity compensation plan not approved
by security holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Summary Compensation Table 

The following table sets forth summary compensation information for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 
and 2008 for our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. We refer to these persons as our Named Executive 
Officers elsewhere in this proxy statement. Except as provided below, none of our Named Executive Officers received any 
other compensation required to be disclosed by law or in excess of $10,000 annually. 

Name and Principal 
Position 

Kevin P. Connors 

Salary 

  Bonus(1)

Option and 
Stock 
Awards (2)

Non-Equity 
Incentive Plan
Compensation (3)

All Other 
Compensation (4) 

Total

President and Chief 
Executive Officer 

2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $  420,000   $ 
2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

  420,000  
  420,000  

  18,454 
  53,086 

―  $ 729,772  $

481,284 
708,145 

Ronald J. Santilli 
Executive Vice 
President and Chief 
Financial Officer 

2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $  290,000   $ 
2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

  290,000  
  290,000  

  10,012 
  28,513 

―  $ 396,546  $

220,589 
339,765 

―  $
― 
6,852 

―  $ 1,149,772
― 
919,738
  1,198,900
10,817 

―  $
— 
— 

—  $
— 
10,350 

686,546
520,601
668,628

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

Amounts represent a discretionary bonus and profit sharing earned for each of the years in 2010, 2009 and 2008. 
Amounts shown in this column are the aggregate grant date fair value of stock awards granted during each of the 
years  in  2010,  2009  and  2008  calculated  in  accordance  with  ASC  Topic  718.  See  Note  5  of  the  Consolidated 
Notes to  Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form  10-K for the year  ended December 31, 
2010  filed  with  the  SEC  on  March  15,  2011  for  a  discussion  of  valuation  assumptions  for  stock-based 
compensation. 
Amounts  represent  non-cash  benefit  associated  with  a  company  sponsored,  non-business,  event  for  achieving 
sales targets in accordance with our commission incentive plan. 
Amount  represents  401(k)  employer-match  contributions  and  service  award,  where  applicable.  In  2009,  we 
discontinued our discretionary employer match on employee 401(k) contributions. 

Grants of Plan-Based Awards 

The following table lists grants of plan-based stock options and restricted stock unit awards made to our Named 

Executive Officers in 2010 at their related grant date fair value calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 718. 

29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Kevin P. Connors President and Chief 

Name 
Executive Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Ronald J. Santilli Chief Financial Officer 
and Executive Vice President . . . . . . 

Estimated Future Payouts Under 
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards

Equity 
Instrument   

Grant 
Date

Threshold   Target

  Maximum  

— 

— 

— 

  Options 
  Options 
  RSUs 
  Total 

  Options 
  Options 
  RSUs 
  Total 

    05/14/2010   
    05/14/2010   
    05/14/2010   

    05/14/2010   
    05/14/2010   
    05/14/2010   
    05/14/2010   

— 

— 

— 

All Other 
Option 
Awards: 
Number of 
Securities 
Underlying 
Options 

Exercise 
or 
Base Price 
of Option 
Awards (2) 

Grant 
Date Fair
Value of
Stock 
Option 
Awards (1)

120,000  $ 
(95,000)   
33,000 
58,000 

55,000  $ 
(57,000)   
22,000 
20,000 

10.24  $
(24.05)   
10.24 

10.24  $
(24.02)   
10.24 

445,452 
(53,600) 
337,920 
729,772 

204,166 
(32,900) 
225,280 
396,546 

(1) 

(2) 

Amounts  reflect  grant  date  fair  value  of  equity  awards  calculated  in  accordance  with  ASC  Topic  718.  See  Note  5  of  the  Notes  to 
Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 filed with the 
SEC on March 15, 2011 for a discussion of valuation assumptions for stock-based compensation. 
The per-share prices were the closing price of our common stock on the respective dates of grant. 

Equity Incentive Awards Outstanding 

The following table lists the outstanding equity incentive awards held by our Named Executive Officers as of December 31, 2010. 

Option Awards

Number of  
Securities  
Underlying  
Unexercised 
Earned  
Options 

Number of 
Securities 
Underlying 
Unexercised 
Unearned 
Options

Option
Exercise 
Price

—  $

2.50 

— 
— 
12,487(1)  
100,000(2)  
60,000(3)  
120,000(3)  

4.25 
20.25 
10.43 
10.43 
8.66 
10.24 

Stock Awards (4)

Number of  
Shares or  
Units of  
Stock that  
Have Not  
Vested 

Market  
Value of  
Shares or  
Units of  
Stock that 
Have Not  
Vested 

Date 
Awards 
Will be 
Fully 
Vested

22,000  $  182,380 

6/01/2012

Option 
Expiration 
Date
6/08/2011 

8/13/2013 
7/28/2015 
5/28/2015 
5/28/2015 
6/08/2016 
5/14/2017 

Name 
Kevin P. Connors . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
President and Chief Executive 

Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Ronald J. Santilli . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Chief Financial Officer and 

Executive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

40,000 

3,333 
30,000 
20,813 
— 
60,000 
— 

20,000 

3,372 
14,753 
10,000 
15,000 
8,563 
— 
27,501 
— 

—  $

5.50 

9/24/2011 

— 
— 
— 
— 
5,137(1)  
50,000(2)  
27,499(3)  
55,000(3)  

4.25 
4.25 
13.30 
20.25 
10.43 
10.43 
8.66 
10.24 

8/07/2012 
8/13/2013 
7/20/2014 
7/28/2015 
5/28/2015 
5/28/2015 
6/08/2016 
5/14/2017 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 

(4) 

One-quarter (1/4th) of the shares underlying each of these options vest on the one year anniversary of the vesting commencement date 
and 1/48th of the underlying shares vest each month thereafter. 
100% of the shares underlying each of these options vest on the three year anniversary of the vesting commencement date. 
One-third (1/3rd) of the shares underlying each of these options vest on the one year anniversary of the vesting commencement date 
and 1/36th of the underlying shares vest each month thereafter. 
One-half of the shares underlying each of these awards will vest on June 1, 2011 and 2012. 

14,666  $  121,581 

6/01/2012

30 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Options Exercised and Stock Vested 

The following table lists the options exercised by, and stock vested to, our Named Executive Officers in the 

year ended December 31, 2010. 

Name 
Kevin P. Connors President and Chief Executive 

Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Ronald J. Santilli Chief Financial Officer and Executive 

Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Option Awards

Stock Awards

Number of 
Shares 
Acquired on
Exercise

Value  
Realized on
Exercise (1)

Number of 
Shares 
Acquired on 
Vesting 

Value Realized
Upon Vesting (2)

50,000  $ 347,500 

11,000  $ 

96,910

― 

― 

7,334  $ 

64,613

(1) 

(2) 

Represents the excess of fair market value of the shares exercised on the exercise date over the aggregate 
exercise price for such shares. 
These shares were originally issued by us pursuant to RSUs granted in May 2010. On each vesting date, the 
RSU has a value equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the date of vesting. 

31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT (1) 

The  Compensation  Committee  has  reviewed  and  discussed  the  Compensation  Discussion  and  Analysis 
required  by  Item  402(b)  of  SEC  Regulation  S-K  with  management.  Based  on  such  review  and  discussions,  the 
Compensation Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis 
be included in Cutera’s proxy statement. 

The foregoing report is provided by the undersigned members of the Compensation Committee. 

David B. Apfelberg 
Timothy J. O’Shea 
Jerry P. Widman 

(1) 

The  material  in  this  report  is  not  deemed  soliciting  material  or  filed  with  the  SEC  and  is  not  to  be 
incorporated by reference in any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or 
the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934,  as  amended,  whether  made  before  or  after  the  date  of  this  Proxy 
Statement and irrespective of any general incorporation language in those filings. 

32 

 
 
 
 
 
OTHER MATTERS 

We  are  not  aware  of  any  other  business  to  be  presented  at  the  meeting.  As  of  the  date  of  this  proxy 
statement, no stockholder had advised us of the intent to present any business at the meeting. Accordingly, the only 
business that our Board of Directors intends to present at the meeting is as set forth in this proxy statement. 

If any other matter or matters are properly brought before the meeting, the proxies will use their discretion 

to vote on such matters in accordance with their best judgment. 

By order of the Board of Directors, 

Kevin P. Connors 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

Brisbane, California 
April 26, 2011 

33 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CUTERA, INC. 
2011 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS 

The undersigned stockholder of Cutera, Inc., a Delaware corporation, hereby acknowledges receipt of the 
Notice  of  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders  and  Proxy  Statement  each  dated  April  26,  2011  and  hereby  appoints 
David B.  Apfelberg  (the  lead  independent  director  on  our  Board)  and  Ronald  J.  Santilli  (our  Chief  Financial 
Officer),  each  as  proxy  and  attorney-in-fact,  with  full  power  of  substitution,  on  behalf  and  in  the  name  of  the 
undersigned to represent the undersigned at the 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Cutera, Inc. to be held on 
June  14,  2011  at  10:00  a.m.,  local  time,  at  Cutera’s  offices  located  at  3240  Bayshore  Blvd.,  Brisbane,  California 
94005-1021,  and  at  any  postponement  or  adjournment  thereof,  and  to vote  all  shares of  common  stock  which  the 
undersigned would be entitled to vote if then and there personally present, on the matters set forth below: 

SEE REVERSE SIDE 

FOLD AND DETACH HERE 

34 

 
 
 
  
 
FOR WITHHOLD  2.  A non-binding advisory vote 
on the approval of executive 
compensation. 

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

3.  A non-binding advisory vote 
on the frequency of executive 
compensation voting. 

Please  
mark your  
votes as  
indicated 
FOR 

⌧
AGAINST ABSTAIN

1 Year

(cid:134) 
2 Year 

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

3 Year  ABSTAIN

4.  Ratify the appointment of 

FOR 

AGAINST ABSTAIN

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
as the Independent Registered 
Public Accounting Firm of the 
Company for the fiscal year 
ending December 31, 2011. 

1.Election of 
Directors 

CLASS I 
NOMINEES: 

Kevin P. Connors 

David A. Gollnick 

THE 
STOCKHOLDER 
MAY WITHHOLD 
AUTHORITY TO 
VOTE FOR ANY 
NOMINEE BY 
STRIKING OUT 
THE 
INDIVIDUAL’S 
NAME ABOVE 

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

(cid:134) 

THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED AS DIRECTED OR, IF NO CONTRARY DIRECTION IS INDICATED, 
WILL  BE  VOTED  AS  FOLLOWS:  (1)  FOR  THE  ELECTION  OF  THE  NOMINATED  CLASS  I 
DIRECTORS; 
(2)  FOR  THE  APPROVAL,  BY  NON-BINDING  VOTE,  OF  EXECUTIVE 
COMPENSATION;  (3)  EVERY  3  YEARS  FOR  THE  APPROVAL,  BY  NON-BINDING  VOTE,  OF 
TRIENNIAL  EXECUTIVE  COMPENSATION  VOTING;  (4)  FOR  THE  RATIFICATION  OF  THE 
APPOINTMENT  OF  PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS  LLP  AS  OUR  INDEPENDENT  REGISTERED 
PUBLIC  ACCOUNTING  FIRM;  AND  (5)  AS  THE  PROXY  HOLDERS  DEEM  ADVISABLE  ON  SUCH 
OTHER MATTERS AS MAY COME BEFORE THE MEETING. 

PLEASE SIGN EXACTLY AS YOUR NAME APPEARS HEREON. IF THE STOCK IS REGISTERED IN THE 
NAME  OF  TWO  OR  MORE  PERSONS,  EACH  SHOULD  SIGN.  EXECUTORS,  ADMINISTRATORS, 
TRUSTEES,  GUARDIANS  AND  ATTORNEYS-IN-FACT  SHOULD  ADD  THEIR  TITLES.  IF  SIGNER  IS  A 
CORPORATION, PLEASE GIVE FULL CORPORATE NAME AND HAVE A DULY AUTHORIZED OFFICER 
SIGN,  STATING  TITLE.  IF  SIGNER  IS  A  PARTNERSHIP,  PLEASE  SIGN  IN  PARTNERSHIP  NAME  BY 
AUTHORIZED PERSON. 

PLEASE SIGN, DATE AND PROMPTLY RETURN THIS PROXY IN THE ENCLOSED RETURN ENVELOPE, 
WHICH IS POSTAGE PREPAID IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES. 

SIGNATURE(S)   

SIGNATURE(S)  

DATE: 

NOTE: This Proxy should be marked, signed by the stockholder(s) exactly as his or her name appears hereon, and 
returned promptly in the enclosed envelope. Persons signing in fiduciary capacity should so indicate. If shares are 
held by joint tenants or as community property, both should sign. 

 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 

FORM 10-K 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE 
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 

For fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 

Commission file number: 000-50644 

Cutera, Inc. 
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 

Delaware 
(State or other jurisdiction of 
incorporation or organization) 

77-0492262 
(I.R.S. Employer 
Identification Number) 

3240 Bayshore Blvd. 
Brisbane, California 94005 
(415) 657-5500 
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, 
of registrant’s principal executive offices) 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 

Title of Each Class 
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered 
The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC 

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes (cid:134) No ⌧ 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes (cid:134) No ⌧ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act 
of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period than the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to 
such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ⌧ No (cid:134) 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data 
File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for 
such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes (cid:134) No (cid:134) 

Indicate  by  check  mark  if  disclosure  of  delinquent  filers  pursuant  to  Item  405  of  Regulation  S-K  is  not  contained  herein,  and  will  not  be 
contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 
10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. (cid:134) 

Indicate  by  check  mark  whether  the  registrant  is  a  large  accelerated  filer,  an  accelerated  filer,  or  a  non-accelerated  filer.  See  definition  of 

“accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (check one):  

Large accelerated 
filer (cid:134) 

Accelerated 

Non-accelerated filer (Do not check if a smaller  

filer ⌧ 

reporting company) (cid:134) 

Smaller reporting company (cid:134) 

Indicate by check mark whether registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes (cid:134) No ⌧ 

The  aggregate  market  value  of  the  registrant’s  common  stock,  held  by  non-affiliates  of  the  registrant  as  of  June  30,  2010  (which  is  the  last 
business day of registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter) based upon the closing price of such stock on the NASDAQ Global Select 
Market on that date, was approximately $72 million. For purposes of this disclosure, shares of common stock held by entities and individuals who 
own 5% or more of the outstanding common stock and shares of common stock held by each officer and director have been excluded in that such 
persons  may  be  deemed  to  be  “affiliates”  as  that  term  is  defined  under  the  Rules  and  Regulations  of  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934.  This 
determination of affiliate status is not necessarily conclusive.  

The number of shares of Registrant’s common stock issued and outstanding as of February 28, 2011 was 13,669,258.  

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 

Part  III  incorporates  by  reference  certain  information  from  the  registrant’s  definitive  proxy  statement  for  the  2011  Annual  Meeting  of 

Stockholders.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Risk Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Unresolved Staff Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
[Reserved]  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer 
Purchases of Equity Securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selected Financial Data 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of 
Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial 
Disclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Other Information 

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related 
Stockholder Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence . . . . . . . . . .  
Principal Accounting Fees and Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Page

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PART I 

Item 1. 
Item 1A. 
Item 1B. 
Item 2. 
Item 3. 
Item 4. 

PART II 

Item 5. 

Item 6. 
Item 7. 

Item 7A. 
Item 8. 
Item 9. 

Item 9A. 
Item 9B. 

PART III 

Item 10. 
Item 11. 
Item 12. 

Item 13. 
Item 14. 

PART IV 

Item 15. 

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

85

i 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1. 

BUSINESS  

PART I 

We  are  a  global  medical  device  company  headquartered  in  Brisbane,  California  specializing  in  the  design, 
development,  manufacture,  marketing  and  servicing  of  laser  and  light-based  aesthetics  systems  for  practitioners 
worldwide.  We  offer  easy-to-use  products  based  on  five  platforms—CoolGlide®,  Xeo®,  Solera®,  GenesisPlusTM  and 
Excel VTM — each of which enable physicians and other qualified practitioners to perform safe and effective aesthetic 
procedures for their customers.  

•  CoolGlide-  In  March  2003,  our  first  product  platform,  CoolGlide,  was  launched.  This  platform  offers 
laser applications for hair removal, treatment of a range of vascular lesions, including leg and facial veins, 
and Laser Genesis—a skin rejuvenation procedure that reduces fine lines, reduces pore size and improves 
skin texture. 

•  Xeo- In 2003, we introduced the Xeo platform, which can combine pulsed light and laser applications in a 
single system.  The Xeo is a fully upgradeable platform on which a customer can use every application 
that  we  offer  to  remove  unwanted  hair,  treat  vascular  lesions  and  rejuvenate  the  skin  by  treating 
discoloration,  improving  texture,  reducing  pore  size  and  treating  fine  lines  and  laxity.  This  product 
platform represents the largest contributor to our Product and Upgrade revenue.  

•  Solera-  In  2004,  we  introduced  the  Solera  platform,  a  compact  tabletop  system  designed  to  support  a 
single technology platform. Solera systems use either infrared (Solera Titan) or pulsed light (Solera Opus) 
and can be used to remove unwanted hair, treat vascular lesions and rejuvenate the skin. The Solera Opus 
can support one or more pulsed light applications in a single system. 

•  GenesisPlus- In 2010, we introduced the GenesisPlus platform, which is a dedicated laser based system 
for performing skin rejuvenation procedures and toe nail fungus removal (CE mark approved and FDA 
clearance pending). This system has a hand piece that includes real time temperature monitoring of the 
treatment  area,  as  well  as  a  non-contact  distance  gauge  using  two  aiming  beams,  for  improving  the 
clinical result of the treatment. 

•  Excel V- In February 2011, we introduced our Excel V platform, a high-performance, vascular platform 
designed specifically for the core-market of Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons. This platform provides 
a combination of the 532 nm green laser with Cutera’s award winning 1064 nm Nd:YAG technology, to 
provide a single, compact and efficient system that treats the entire range of cosmetic vascular conditions, 
without the need for costly consumables. 

Each  of  our  laser  and  light-based  platforms  consists  of  one  or  more  hand  pieces  and  a  console  that  incorporates  a 
universal graphic user interface, a laser or light-based module, control system software and high voltage electronics. 
However,  depending  on  the  application,  the  laser  or  light-based  module  is  sometimes  instead  contained  in  the  hand 
piece. A description of each of our hand pieces, and the aesthetic conditions they are designed to treat, are contained in 
the section entitled “Products,” below.  

We offer our customers the ability to select the systems and applications that best fit their practice and to subsequently 
upgrade their systems to add new applications. This upgrade path allows our customers to cost-effectively build their 
aesthetic practices and provides us with a source of recurring revenue.  

In  addition  to systems  and  upgrades,  we generate  revenue from  the  sale  of  post  warranty  services, Titan  hand piece 
refills, and Dermal filler and cosmeceuticals.  

The Structure of Skin and Conditions that Affect Appearance  

The skin is the body’s largest organ and is comprised of layers called the epidermis and dermis. The epidermis is the 
outer layer, and serves as a protective barrier for the body. It contains cells that determine pigmentation, or skin color. 
The  underlying  layer  of  skin,  the  dermis,  contains  hair  follicles  and  large  and  small  blood  vessels  that  are  found  at 
various  depths  below  the  epidermis.  Collagen,  also  found  within  the  dermis,  provides  strength  and  flexibility  to  the 
skin.  

Many factors, such as age, smoking and sun damage, can result in aesthetically unpleasant changes in the appearance 
of the skin. These changes can include:  

1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
•  Undesirable hair growth;  
•  Enlargement  or  swelling  of  blood  vessels  due  to  circulatory  changes  that  become  visible  at  the  skin’s 

surface in the form of unsightly veins;  

•  Deterioration  of  collagen,  which  weakens  the  skin,  leading  to  uneven  texture,  increased  pore  size, 

wrinkles and laxity; and  

•  Uneven pigmentation or sun spots due to long-term sun exposure.  

People with unwanted hair or any of the above-mentioned skin conditions often seek aesthetic treatments to improve 
their appearance.  

The Market for Non-Surgical Aesthetic Procedures  

The  market  for  non-surgical  aesthetic procedures has  grown  significantly  over  the  past  several  years.  The American 
Society  of  Plastic  Surgeons  estimates  that  in  2010  there  were  over  11.5  million  minimally-invasive  aesthetic 
procedures performed, a 5% increase over 2009 and a 110% increase over 2000. We believe there are several factors 
contributing to the growth of these aesthetic procedures, including:  

•  Aging  of  the  U.S.  Population-  The  “baby  boomer”  demographic  segment  ─  ages  46  to  64  in  2010  ─ 
represented  approximately  80  million  people,  or  26%,  of  the  U.S.  population  in  2010.  The  size  of  this 
aging segment, and its desire to retain a youthful appearance, has contributed to the growth for aesthetic 
procedures. 

•  Broader Range of Safe and Effective Treatments- Technical developments have led to safe, effective, 
easy-to-use  and  low-cost  treatments  with  fewer  side  effects,  resulting  in  broader  adoption  of  aesthetic 
procedures  by  practitioners.  In  addition,  technical  developments  have  enabled  practitioners  to  offer  a 
broader  range  of  treatments.  These  technical  developments  have  reduced  the  required  treatment  and 
recovery times, which in turn have led to greater patient demand. 

•  Broader  Base  of  Customers-  Managed  care  and  government  payer  reimbursement  restrictions  in  the 
United  States,  and  similar  payment  related  constraints  outside  the  United  States,  may  help  motivate 
qualified  practitioners  from  differing  specialties  to  establish  or  expand  their  elective  aesthetic  practices 
with  procedures  that  are  paid  for directly  by  patients.  As  a  result,  in  addition  to  the  core  users  such  as 
dermatologists  and  plastic  surgeons,  many  other  non-core  practitioners,  such  as  gynecologists,  family 
practitioners,  primary  care  physicians,  physicians  offering  aesthetic  treatments  in  non-medical  offices, 
and other qualified practitioners are offering aesthetic procedures.  

Non-Surgical Aesthetic Procedures for Improving the Skin’s Appearance and Their Limitations  

Many alternative therapies are available for improving a person’s appearance by treating specific structures within the 
skin. These procedures utilize injections or abrasive agents to reach different depths of the dermis and the epidermis. In 
addition,  non-invasive  and  minimally-invasive  treatments  have  been  developed  that  employ  laser  and  light-based 
technologies  to  achieve  similar  therapeutic  results.  Some  of  these  more  common  therapies  and  their  limitations  are 
described below.  

Hair Removal- Techniques for hair removal include waxing, depilatories, tweezing, shaving, electrolysis and laser and 
light-based hair removal. The only techniques that provide a long-lasting solution are electrolysis and light-based hair 
removal.  Electrolysis  is  usually  painful,  time-consuming  and  expensive  for  large  areas,  but  is  the  most  common 
method for removing light-colored hair. During electrolysis, an electrologist inserts a needle directly into a hair follicle 
and activates an electric current in the needle. Since electrolysis only treats one hair follicle at a time, the treatment of 
an area as small as an upper lip may require numerous visits and many hours of treatment. In addition, electrolysis can 
cause blemishes and infection related to needle use.  

2 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Leg and Facial Veins- The current aesthetic treatment methods for leg and facial veins include sclerotherapy and laser 
and  light-based  treatments.  With  these  treatments,  patients  seek  to  eliminate  visible  veins  and  improve  overall  skin 
appearance.  Sclerotherapy  requires  a  skilled  practitioner  to  inject  a  saline  or  detergent-based  solution  into  the  target 
vein, which breaks down the vessel causing it to collapse and be absorbed into the body. The need to correctly position 
the needle on the inside of the vein makes it difficult to treat smaller veins, which limits the treatment of facial vessels 
and  small  leg  veins.  The  American  Society  of  Plastic  Surgeons  estimates  that  approximately  365,000  sclerotherapy 
procedures were performed in 2010.  

Skin Rejuvenation- Skin rejuvenation treatments include a broad range of popular alternatives, including Botox and 
collagen  injections,  chemical  peels,  microdermabrasions,  radiofrequency  treatments  and  lasers  and  light-based 
treatments. With these treatments, patients hope to improve overall skin tone and texture, reduce pore size, tighten skin 
and remove other signs of aging, including mottled pigmentation, diffuse redness and wrinkles. All of these procedures 
are temporary solutions and must be repeated within several weeks or months to sustain their effect, thereby increasing 
the  cost  and  inconvenience  to  patients.  For  example,  the  body  absorbs  Botox  and  collagen  and  patients  require 
supplemental injections every three to six months to maintain the benefits of these treatments.  

Some skin rejuvenation treatments, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasions, can have undesirable side effects. 
Chemical peels use acidic or caustic solutions to peel away the epidermis, and  microdermabrasion generally utilizes 
sand crystals to resurface the skin. These techniques can lead to stinging, redness, irritation and scabbing. In addition, 
more serious complications, such as changes in skin color, can result from deeper chemical peels. Patients that undergo 
these deep chemical peels are also advised to avoid exposure to the sun for several months following the procedure. 
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates that in 2010, approximately 5.4 million injections of Botox and 
1.8 million injections of collagen and other soft-tissue fillers were administered; and 1.1 million chemical peels and 
825,000 microdermabrasion procedures were performed.  

In  radiofrequency  tissue  tightening,  energy  is  applied  to  heat  the  dermis  of  the  skin  with  the  goal  of  shrinking  and 
tightening  the  collagen  fibers.  This  approach  may  result  in  a  more  subtle  and  incremental  change  to  the  skin  than  a 
surgical facelift. Drawbacks to this approach may include surface irregularities that  may however resolve over time, 
and the risk of burning the treatment area.  

Laser  and  light-based  non-surgical  treatments  for  hair  removal,  veins  and  skin  rejuvenation  are  discussed  in  the 
following section and in the section entitled “Our Applications and Procedures,” below.  

Laser and Light-Based Aesthetic Treatments  

Laser and light-based aesthetic treatments can achieve therapeutic results by affecting structures within the skin. The 
development of safe and effective aesthetic treatments has created a well-established market for these procedures.  

Ablative skin resurfacing is a method of improving the appearance of the skin by removing the outer layers of the skin. 
Ablative  skin resurfacing procedures  are  considered  invasive  or  minimally  invasive, depending  on how  much  of  the 
epidermis is removed during a treatment. Non-ablative skin resurfacing is a method of improving the appearance of the 
skin by treating the underlying structure of the skin without damaging the outer layers of the skin. Practitioners can use 
laser and light-based technologies to selectively target hair follicles, veins or collagen in the dermis, as well as cells 
responsible  for  pigmentation  in  the  epidermis,  without  damaging  surrounding  tissue.  They  can  also  use  these 
technologies to safely remove portions of the epidermis and deliver heat to the dermis as a means of generating new 
collagen growth.  

Safe  and  effective  laser  and  light-based  treatments  require  an  appropriate  combination  of  the  following  four 
parameters:  

•  Energy Level- the amount of light emitted to heat a target;  
•  Pulse Duration- the time interval over which the energy is delivered;  
•  Spot Size- the diameter of the energy beam, which affects treatment depth and area; and  
•  Wavelength- the color of light, which impacts the effective depth and absorption of the energy delivered.  

3 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For example, in the case of hair removal, by utilizing the correct combination of these parameters, a practitioner can 
use  a  laser  or  other  light  source  to  selectively  target  melanin  within  the  hair  follicle  to  absorb  the  laser  energy  and 
destroy  the  follicle,  without  damaging  other  delicate  structures  in  the  surrounding  tissue.  Wavelength  and  spot  size 
permit the practitioner to target melanin in the base of the hair follicle, which is found in the dermis. The combination 
of pulse duration and energy level may vary, depending upon the thickness of the targeted hair follicle. A shorter pulse 
length with a high energy level is optimal to destroy fine hair, whereas coarse hair is best treated with a longer pulse 
length with lower energy levels. If treatment parameters are improperly set, non-targeted structures within the skin may 
absorb the energy thereby eliminating or reducing the therapeutic effect. In addition, improper setting of the treatment 
parameters or failure to protect the surface of the skin may cause burns, which can result in blistering, scabbing and 
skin discoloration.  

Technology and Design of Our Systems  

Our unique CoolGlide, Xeo, Solera, GenesisPlus and Excel V platforms provide the long-lasting benefits of laser and 
light-based aesthetic treatments. Our technology allows for a combination of a wide variety of applications available in 
a single system. Key features of our solutions include:  

•  Multiple  Applications  Available  in  a  Single  System-  Our  systems  comprise  of  multi-applications  that 
enable  practitioners  to  perform  multiple  aesthetic  procedures  using  a  single  device.  These  procedures 
include  hair  removal,  vascular  treatments  and  skin  rejuvenation  ─  including  the  treatment  of 
discoloration, laxity, fine lines, pore size and uneven texture. Because practitioners can use our systems 
for multiple indications, the cost of a unit may be spread across a potentially greater number of patients 
and procedures and therefore may be more rapidly recovered.  

•  Technology and Design Leadership- We offer innovative laser and light-based solutions for the aesthetic 
market. Our laser technology combines long wavelength, adjustable energy levels, variable spot sizes and 
a  wide  range  of  pulse  durations,  allowing  practitioners  to  customize  treatments  for  each  patient  and 
condition. Our proprietary pulsed light hand pieces for the treatment of discoloration, hair removal and 
vascular treatments optimize the wavelength used for treatments and incorporate a monitoring system to 
increase safety. Our Titan hand pieces utilize a novel light source that had not been previously used for 
aesthetic  treatments.  Our  Pearl  and  Pearl  Fractional  hand  pieces,  with  proprietary  YSGG  technology, 
represent the first application of the 2790 nm wavelength for minimally-invasive cosmetic dermatology. 
Further,  our  GenesisPlus  platform  for  performing  skin  rejuvenation  procedures  and  toenail  fungus 
removal  (CE  mark  approved  and  FDA  clearance  pending)  has  a  hand  piece  that  includes  real  time 
temperature monitoring of the treatment area, as well as a non-contact distance gauge using two aiming 
beams, for improving the clinical result of the treatment.  

•  Upgradeable  Platform-  We  have  designed  some  of  our  products  to  allow  our  customers  to  cost-
effectively upgrade to our multi-application systems (Solera and Xeo), which provide our customers with 
the  option  to  add  additional  applications  to  their  existing  systems  and  provides  us  with  a  source  of 
recurring revenue. We believe that product upgradeability allows our customers to take advantage of our 
latest product offerings and provide additional treatment options to their patients, thereby expanding the 
opportunities for their aesthetic practices.  

•  Treatments  for  Broad  Range  of  Skin  Types  and  Conditions-  Our  products  remove  hair  safely  and 
effectively  on  patients  of  all  skin  types,  including  harder-to-treat  patients  with  dark  or  tanned  skin.  In 
addition, the wide parameter range of our systems allows practitioners to effectively treat patients with 
both fine and coarse hair. Practitioners may use our products to treat spider and reticular veins (unsightly 
small  veins  in  the  leg)  and  small  facial  veins;  perform  skin  rejuvenation  procedures  for  discoloration, 
texture, pore size, fine lines, and laxity on any type of skin; and treat toe nail fungus (CE mark approved 
and FDA clearance pending). The ability to customize treatment parameters enables practitioners to offer 
safe and effective therapies to a broad base of their patients.  

4 

 
 
 
•  Ease of Use- We design our products to be easy to use. Our proprietary hand pieces are lightweight and 
ergonomic,  minimizing  user  fatigue,  and  allow  for  clear  views  of  the  treatment  area,  reducing  the 
possibility of unintended damage and increasing the speed of application. Our control console contains a 
universal graphic user interface with three simple, independently adjustable controls from which to select 
a wide range of treatment parameters to suit each patient’s profile. The clinical navigation user interface 
on the Xeo platform provides recommended clinical treatment parameter ranges based on patient criteria 
entered. And our Pearl and Pearl Fractional hand pieces include a scanner with multiple scan patterns to 
allow  simple  and  fast  treatments  of  the  face.  Risks  involved  in  the  use  of  our  products  include  risks 
common  to  other  laser  and  light-based  aesthetic  procedures,  including  the  risk  of  burns,  blistering  and 
skin discoloration.  

Strategy  

Our goal is to maintain and expand our position as a leading, worldwide, provider of energy-based aesthetic devices 
and complementary aesthetic products by executing the following strategies:  

• 

•  Continue to Expand our Product Offering- Though we believe that our current portfolio of products is 
comprehensive,  our  research  and  development  group  has  a  pipeline  of  potential  products  under 
development that we expect to commercialize in the future. In addition to products in the laser and light-
based  aesthetic  market,  we  are  expanding  our  product  offering  into  other  complementary  aesthetic 
applications,  such  as  dermal  fillers  and  cosmeceuticals.  Such  products  will  allow  us  to  leverage  our 
existing  customer  call  points,  and  provide  us  with  new  customer  call  points,  to  generate  additional 
revenue, which will enhance the productivity of our distribution channels.  
Increasing Revenue and Improving Productivity- We believe that the market for aesthetic systems will 
continue  to  offer  growth  opportunities  in  the  future,  even though our revenue declined by  1%  in  2010, 
compared with 2009. We continue to build brand-recognition, add additional products to our international 
distribution channel and remain focused on enhancing our global distribution network, all of which we 
expect  will  increase  our  revenue.  In  addition,  we  plan  to  grow  our  U.S.  revenue  by  leveraging  our 
relationship with PSS World Medical Shared Services, Inc., or PSS─ a wholly-owned subsidiary of PSS 
World Medical ─ that operates medical supply distribution service centers with over 700 sales consultants 
serving  physician  offices  throughout  the  United  States.  In  2010,  we  expanded  our  senior  sales 
management to provide increased focus to our distribution channels and improve sales productivity.  
Increasing  Focus  on  Practitioners  with  Established  Medical  Offices-  We  believe  there  is  growth 
opportunity in targeting our products to a broad customer base. However, in response to the recent global 
recession, we shifted our focus to the core practitioners and physicians with established medical offices. 
We believe that our customer success is largely dependent upon having an existing medical practice, in 
which our systems provide incremental revenue sources to augment their practice revenue. 

• 

•  Leveraging our  Installed  Base  with  Sales  of  Upgrades- In  February  2011, we  introduced  the  Excel  V 
and  in  2010,  we  introduced  GenesisPlus  ─  both  stand  alone  platforms.  However  in  the  past,  we  have 
introduced new products that allowed existing customers to upgrade their previously purchased systems 
to  offer  additional  capabilities.  We  believe  that  providing  upgrades  to  our  existing  installed  base  of 
customers  continues  to  represent  a  potentially  significant  opportunity  for  recurring  revenue.  We  also 
believe that our upgrade program aligns our interest in generating revenue with our customers’ interest in 
improving the return on their investment by expanding the range of applications that can be performed 
with their existing systems. In 2011, we plan on continuing to market upgrades to our installed base of 
customers with applications such as Pearl and Pearl Fractional, Titan and other flash lamp hand pieces.  
•  Generating Revenue from Services and Refillable Hand Pieces- Our Titan hand pieces and pulsed-light 
hand pieces are refillable products, which provide us with a source of recurring revenue from our existing 
customers. We offer post-warranty services to our customers either through extended service contracts to 
cover preventive maintenance or through direct billing for parts and labor. These post-warranty services 
serve as additional sources of recurring revenue. 

5 

 
 
 
Products  

Our  CoolGlide,  Xeo,  Solera,  GenesisPlus  and  Excel  V  platforms  allow  for  the  delivery  of  multiple  laser  and  light-
based  aesthetic  applications  from  a  single  system.  With  our  Xeo  and  Solera  platforms,  practitioners  can  purchase 
customized systems with a variety of our multi-technology applications.  

The following table lists our products and each checked box represents the incremental applications that were added to 
the respective platforms in the years noted.  

Applications: 

Hair 
Removal:

Vascular
Lesions:

  Products: 

System 
Platforms: 
CoolGlide . . . . . . .    CV 

  Year:
  2000  
  2001  
  Excel 
  2002  
  Vantage 
Xeo: . . . . . . . . . . . .    Nd:YAG 
  2003  
  2003  
  OPS600 
  2004  
  LP560 
  2004  
  Titan S 
  2005  
  ProWave 770 
  2005  
  AcuTip 500 
  2006  
  Titan V/XL 
  2006  
  LimeLight 
  Pearl 
  2007  
  Pearl Fractional    2008  
  2004  
  2005  
  2005  
  2005  
  2005  
  2006  
  2006  
  2010  
  2011  

  ProWave 770 
  OPS 600 
  LP560 
  AcuTip 500 
  Titan V/XL 
  LimeLight 

GenesisPlus . . . . .   
Excel V . . . . . . . . .   

Solera . . . . . . . . . .    Titan S 

x 

x 

x 

x 

Energy
Source:
a 
a 
a 
a 
b 
b 
c 
b 
b 
c 
b 
d 
d 
c 
b 
b 
b 
b 
c 
b 
a 
e 

x 

x 

x 

x 

x 

Skin Rejuvenation

  Dyschromia: 

Texture,
Lines and
Wrinkles:

Skin
Laxity:

x 
x 

x 
x 

x 
x 

x 

x 

x 

x 

x 
x 

x 
x 

x 
x 

x 

x 

Energy  Source:  a.  1064nm  Nd:YAG  laser;  b.  flashlamp;  c.  Infrared  laser;  d.  2790  nm  YSGG  laser;  e.  combined 
frequency 532 nm and 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser  

Each of our products consists of a control console and one or more hand pieces, depending on the model.  

Control Console  

Our control console includes a universal graphic user interface, control system software and high voltage electronics. 
All CoolGlide systems, GenesisPlus, Excel V and some models of the Xeo platform, include our laser module which 
consists of electronics, a visible aiming beam, a focusing lens, and an Nd:YAG and/or flashlamp laser that functions at 
wavelengths that permit penetration over a wide range of depths and is effective across all skin types. The interface 
allows the practitioner to set the appropriate laser or flashlamp parameters for each procedure through a user-friendly 
format.  The  control  system  software  ensures  that  the  operator’s  instructions  are  properly  communicated  from  the 
graphic  user  interface  to  the  other  components  within  the  system.  Our high  voltage  electronics produce  over  10,000 
watts  of  peak  laser  energy,  which  permits  therapeutic  effects  at  short  pulse  durations.  Our  Solera  console  platform 
comes  in  two  configurations—Opus  and  Titan—both  of  which  include  a  universal  graphic  user  interface,  control 
system software and high voltage electronics. The Solera Opus console is designed specifically to drive our flashlamp 
hand pieces while the Solera Titan console is designed specifically to drive the Titan hand pieces. The control system 
software  is  designed  to  ensure  that  the  operator’s  instructions  are  properly  communicated  from  the  graphical  user 
interface to the other components within the system and includes real-time calibration to control the output energy as 
the pulse is delivered during the treatment.  

6 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hand Pieces  

1064 nm Nd:YAG Hand Piece- Our 1064nm Nd:YAG hand piece delivers laser energy to the treatment area for hair 
removal, leg and facial vein treatment, and skin rejuvenation procedures to treat skin texture and fine lines, and reduce 
pore size. The 1064nm Nd:YAG hand piece consists of an energy-delivery component, consisting of an optical fiber 
and lens, and a copper cooling plate with imbedded temperature monitoring. The hand piece weighs approximately 14 
ounces, which is light enough to be held with one hand. The lightweight nature and ergonomic design of the hand piece 
allows the operation of the device without user fatigue. Its design allows the practitioner an unobstructed view of the 
treatment area, which reduces the possibility of unintended damage to the skin and can increase the speed of treatment. 
The 1064nm Nd:YAG hand piece also incorporates our cooling system, providing integrated pre- and post cooling of 
the treatment area through a temperature-controlled copper plate to protect the outer layer of the skin. The hand piece is 
available in either a fixed 10 millimeter spot size for our CoolGlide CV system, or a user-controlled variable 3, 5, 7 or 
10 millimeter spot size for our CoolGlide Excel and CoolGlide Vantage systems.  

Excel V Hand Piece- The Excel V system introduced in February 2011 delivers 1064 nm and 532 nm laser energy to 
the treatment area for vascular treatments. The Excel V system includes two hand pieces, both consisting of an energy-
delivery component, consisting of an optical fiber and lens. One hand piece includes a sapphire window cooling plate 
with  temperature  monitoring.  The  second  hand  piece  does  not  have  a  cooling  plate  and  includes  a  non-contact 
temperature sensor to monitor the treatment area temperature. In addition, this second hand piece includes two aiming 
beams that facilitate consistent treatments by maintaining the correct distance of the hand piece to the skin. Both hand 
pieces offer a spot size range from 1.5 to 12 mm in 0.1 mm increments. Each hand piece is capable of delivering either 
the 1064 nm or 532 nm laser energy.  

GenesisPlus  Hand  Piece-  Our  GenesisPlus  system  launched  in  2010  delivers  1064  nm  laser  energy  to  the  treatment 
area for skin rejuvenation procedures to treat skin texture and fine lines, and reduce pore size. This 1064nm Nd:YAG 
hand piece consists of an energy-delivery component, consisting of an optical fiber and lens but is lighter since it does 
not  include  a  copper  cooling  plate.  The  hand  piece  does  include  a  non-contact  temperature  sensor  to  monitor  the 
treatment area temperature. In addition, the hand piece includes two aiming beams that facilitate consistent treatments 
by maintaining the correct distance of the hand piece to the skin. This hand piece offers a single 5 mm spot size.  

Pulsed Light Hand Piece- The LP560, ProWave 770, AcuTip 500 and LimeLight hand pieces are designed to produce 
a pulse of light over a wavelength spectrum  to treat discoloration, including pigmented lesions, such as age and sun 
spots,  hair  removal  and  superficial  facial  vessels.  The  hand  pieces  each  consist  of  a  custom  flashlamp,  proprietary 
wavelength filter, closed-loop power control and embedded temperature monitor, and weigh approximately 13 ounces. 
The filter in the AcuTip 500 eliminates long and short wavelengths, transmitting only the therapeutic range required for 
safe  and  effective  treatment.  The  filter  in  the  LP560,  ProWave  770  and  LimeLight  eliminates  short  wavelengths, 
allowing  longer  wavelengths  to  be  transmitted  to  the  treatment  area.  In  addition,  the  wavelength  spectrum  of  the 
ProWave 770 and the LimeLight can be shifted based on the setting of the control console. Our power control includes 
a  monitoring  system  to  ensure  that  the  desired  energy  level  is  delivered.  The  hand  pieces  protect  the  epidermis  by 
regulating the temperature of the hand piece window through the embedded temperature monitor. These hand pieces 
are available on the Xeo and Solera platforms.  

Titan  Hand  Piece-  The  Titan  hand  pieces  are  designed  to  produce  a  sustained  pulse  of  light  over  a  wavelength 
spectrum tailored to provide heating in the dermis to treat skin laxity (although it is cleared in the United States by the 
U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, only for deep dermal heating). The hand piece consists of a custom light 
source, proprietary wavelength filter, closed-loop power control, sapphire cooling window and embedded temperature 
monitor, and weighs approximately three pounds. The temperature of the epidermis is controlled by using a sapphire 
window to provide cooling before, during and after the delivery of energy to the treatment site. We offer two different 
Titan hand pieces—Titan V and Titan XL.  

•  Titan  V-  Titan  V  has  a  treatment  tip  that  extends  beyond  the  hand  piece  housing  to  provide  enhanced 
visibility of the skin’s surface to effectively treat delicate areas such as the skin around the eyes and nose. 
•  Titan XL- Titan XL, like the Titan V, has a treatment tip that extends beyond the housing for improved 
visibility.  It  also  has  a  larger  treatment  spot  size  to  treat  larger  body  areas  faster,  such  as  the  arms, 
abdomen and legs. 

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
The  Titan  hand  pieces  can  be  used  on  the  Xeo  and  Solera  platforms.  The  Titan  hand  piece  requires  a  periodic 
“refilling” process, which includes the replacement of the optical source, after a set number of pulses have been used. 
This provides us with a source of recurring revenue.  

Pearl  Hand  Piece-  The  Pearl  hand  piece,  introduced  in  2007,  is  designed  to  treat  fine  lines,  uneven  texture  and 
dyschromia through the application of proprietary YSGG laser technology. This hand piece can safely remove a small 
portion of the epidermis, while coagulating the remaining epidermis, leading to new collagen growth. The Pearl hand 
piece  consists  of  a  custom  monolithic  laser  source,  scanner  and  power  monitoring  electronics.  The  scanner  includes 
multiple  scan  patterns  to  allow  simple  and  fast  treatments  of  the  face.  The  hand  piece  includes  an  attachment  for  a 
smoke evacuator, allowing the practitioner to use one hand during treatment.  

Pearl  Fractional  Hand  Piece-  The  Pearl  Fractional  hand  piece,  introduced  in  2008,  also  uses  proprietary  YSGG 
technology and is designed to treat wrinkles and deep dermal imperfections (although it is cleared in the United States 
by the FDA only for skin resurfacing and coagulation). This hand piece penetrates the deep dermis producing a series 
of  microcolumns  across  the  skin,  which  can  result  in  the  removal  of  damaged  tissue  and  the  production  of  new 
collagen. The Pearl Fractional hand piece consists of a custom monolithic laser source, scanner and power monitoring 
electronics. The scanner includes multiple scan patterns to allow simple and fast treatments of the face. The hand piece 
includes an attachment for a smoke evacuator, allowing the practitioner to use one hand during treatment.  

Upgrades  

Our  Solera  and  Xeo  platforms  are  multi-application  products  that  are  designed  to  allow  our  customers  to  cost-
effectively upgrade to our newest technologies, which provides our customers the option to add applications to their 
system and provides us with a source of recurring revenue. When we introduce a new product, we notify our customers 
of the upgrade opportunity through a sales call or mailing. In most cases, a field service representative can install the 
upgrade at the customer site in a matter of hours, which results in very little downtime for practitioners. In some cases, 
where substantial upgrades are necessary, customers will receive fully-refurbished systems before sending their prior 
systems back to our headquarters. When customers wish to upgrade from the CoolGlide platform to either a Xeo or a 
Solera, we provide them with a trade-in value for their CoolGlide and upgrade them to the multi-application platform 
with the desired applications.  

Service  

We  offer  post-warranty  services  to  our  customers  either  through  extended  service  contracts  to  cover  preventive 
maintenance or replacement parts and labor, or through direct billing for parts and labor. These post-warranty services 
serve as additional sources of recurring revenue from our installed base.  

Titan Hand Piece Refills  

Each Titan hand piece is a refillable product, which provides us with a source of recurring revenue from our existing 
customers.  

Fillers and Cosmeceuticals  

We distribute BioForm’s (a subsidiary of Merz) Radiesse® dermal filler product and Obagi Medical Product, Inc.’s (or 
Obagi) prescription-based, topical skin health systems (or Cosmeceuticals) to physicians in the Japanese market.  

Our Applications and Procedures  

Our products are designed to allow the practitioner to select an appropriate combination of energy level, spot size and 
pulse duration for each treatment. The ability to manipulate the combinations of these parameters allows our customers 
to treat the broadest range of conditions available with a single energy-based system.  

8 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hair Removal- Our laser technology allows our customers to treat all skin types and hair thicknesses. Our 1064 nm 
Nd:YAG laser permits energy to safely penetrate through the epidermis of any skin type and into the dermis where the 
hair  follicle  is  located.  Using  the  universal  graphic  user  interface  on  our  control  console,  the  practitioner  sets 
parameters to deliver therapeutic energy with a large spot size and variable pulse durations, allowing the practitioner to 
treat  fine  or  coarse  hair.  Our  1064nm  Nd:YAG  hand  piece  allows  our  customers  to  treat  all  skin  types,  while  our 
ProWave 770 hand piece, with its pulsed light technology, treats the majority of skin types quickly and effectively.  

To remove hair using a 1064nm Nd:YAG hand piece, the treatment site on the skin is first cleaned and shaved. The 
practitioner then applies a thin layer of gel to glide across the skin, and next applies the hand piece directly to the skin 
to cool the area to be treated and then delivers a laser pulse to the pre-cooled area. To remove hair using the ProWave 
770 hand piece, mineral oil is used instead of gel, and cooling is provided by a sapphire window placed directly on the 
skin, allowing the pulse of light to be applied while the treatment area is being cooled. In the case of both hand pieces, 
delivery  of  the  energy  destroys  the  hair  follicles  and  prevents  hair  re-growth.  This  procedure  is  then  repeated  at  the 
next treatment site on the body, and can be done in a gliding motion to increase treatment speed. Patients receive on 
average three to six treatments. Each treatment can take between five minutes and one hour depending on the size of 
the area and the condition being treated. On average, there are six to eight weeks between treatments.  

Vascular  Lesions-  Our  laser  technology  allows  our  customers  to  treat  the  widest  range  of  aesthetic  vein  conditions, 
including  spider  and  reticular  veins  and  small  facial  veins.  Our  CoolGlide  and  Xeo  1064nm  Nd:YAG  hand  piece’s 
adjustable spot size of 3, 5, 7 or 10 millimeters, or the Excel V 1064 nm and 532 nm hand piece with adjustable spot 
sizes from 1.5 to 12 mm, allows the practitioner to control treatment depth to target different sized veins. Selection of 
the  appropriate  energy  level  and  pulse  duration  ensures  effective  treatment  of  the  intended  target.  Our  AcuTip  500 
hand  piece,  with  its  6  millimeter  spot  size,  uses  pulsed-light  technology  and  is  designed  for  the  treatment  of  facial 
vessels.  

The  vein  treatment  procedure  when  using  the  1064nm  Nd:YAG  hand  piece  is  performed  in  a  substantially  similar 
manner to the laser hair removal procedure. The laser hand piece is used to cool the treatment area both before and 
after the laser pulse has been applied. With the Excel V hand piece the cooling can be performed pre, during and post 
delivery of the laser pulse. With the AcuTip 500 hand piece, the pulse of light is delivered while the treatment area is 
being cooled with the sapphire tip. The delivered energy damages the vein and, over time, it is absorbed by the body. 
Patients receive on average between one and six treatments, with six weeks or longer between treatments.  

Skin Rejuvenation- Our laser and light-based technologies allow our customers to perform non-invasive and minimally-
invasive treatments that reduce redness, pore size, fine lines and laxity, improve skin texture, and treat other aesthetic 
conditions. Our products are each designed to minimize the risk of damage to the surrounding tissue.  

Texture; Lines and Wrinkles- When using a 1064nm Nd: YAG laser to improve skin texture, reduce pore size and treat 
fine  lines,  cooling  is  not  applied  and  the  hand  piece  is  held  directly  above  the  skin.  A  large  number  of  pulses  are 
directed at the treatment site, repeatedly covering an area, such as the cheek. By delivering many pulses of laser light to 
a  treatment  area,  a  gentle  heating  of  the  dermis  occurs  and collagen  growth  is  stimulated  to  rejuvenate  the  skin  and 
reduce wrinkles. Patients typically receive four to six treatments for this procedure. The treatment typically takes less 
than a half hour and there are typically two to four weeks between treatments.  

When treating texture and fine lines with a Pearl hand piece, the hand piece is held at a controlled distance from the 
skin  and  the  scanner delivers  a  preset pattern of  spots  to  the  treatment  area.  Cooling  is  not  applied  to  the  epidermis 
during  the  treatment.  The  energy  delivered  by  the  hand  piece  ablates  a  portion  of  the  epidermis  while  leaving  a 
coagulated portion that will gently peel off over the course of a few days. Heat is also delivered into the dermis which 
can result in the production of new collagen. Treatment of the full face can usually be performed in 15 to 30 minutes. 
Patients receive on average between one and three treatments at monthly intervals.  

When treating wrinkles and deep dermal imperfections with a Pearl Fractional hand piece, the hand piece is held at a 
controlled distance from the skin and the scanner delivers a preset pattern of spots to the treatment area. Cooling is not 
applied  to  the  epidermis  during  the  treatment.  The  energy  delivered  by  the  hand  piece  penetrates  the  deep  dermis 
producing  a  series  of  microcolumns  across  the  skin,  which  can  result  in  the  removal  of  damaged  tissue  and  the 
production of new collagen. Treatment of the full face can usually be performed in less than an hour. Patients receive 
on average between one and three treatments at monthly intervals.  

9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our CE Mark allows us to market Pearl Fractional in the European Union, Australia and certain other countries outside 
the United States for the treatment of wrinkles and deep dermal imperfections. However, in the United States we have 
a 510(k) clearance for only skin resurfacing and coagulation.  

Toenail  Fungus- In  addition to  performing skin  rejuvenation, we have  a  CE  Mark  approval for  the GenesisPlus  that 
allows us to market it in the European Union and certain other countries outside the United States for the treatment of 
onychomycosis (or toenail fungus). We have submitted a 501(k) application to the FDA to market this product in the 
United States for the treatment of toenail fungus and do not currently have approval. Tiny pulses of light from an Nd: 
YAG  laser  pass  through  the  toenail  to  the  fungus  underneath,  which  is  irradiated  without  any  damage  to  the 
surrounding nail or skin. The GenesisPlus has two aiming beams that facilitate consistent treatments by maintaining the 
correct distance of the hand piece to the skin. In addition, during the treatment an integrated sensor is used to actively 
monitor the temperature of the treatment area.  

Dyschromia-  Our  pulsed-light  technologies  allow  our  customers  to  safely  and  effectively  treat  red  and  brown 
dyschromia, which is skin discoloration, pigmented lesions and rosacea. The practitioner delivers a narrow spectrum of 
light  to  the  surface  of  the  skin  through  our  LP560  or  LimeLight  hand  pieces.  These  hand  pieces  include  one  of  our 
proprietary wavelength filters, which reduce the energy level required for therapeutic effect and minimize the risk of 
skin injury.  

In treating pigmented lesions with a pulsed-light technology, the hand piece is placed directly on the skin and then the 
light pulse is triggered. The cells forming the pigmented lesion absorb the light energy, darken and then flake off over 
the course of two to three weeks. Several treatments may be required to completely remove the lesion. The treatment 
takes a few minutes per area treated and there are typically three to four weeks between treatments.  

The 532 nm wavelength green laser option on the Excel V can also be used to treat pigmented lesions in substantially 
the same way as described above with the pulsed light devices.  

Practitioners can also treat dyschromia and other skin conditions with our Pearl hand piece. During these treatments, 
the heat delivered by the Pearl hand piece will remove the outer layer of the epidermis while coagulating a portion of 
the epidermis. That coagulated portion will gently peel off over the course of a few days, revealing a new layer of skin 
underneath.  Treatment  of  the  full  face  can  usually  be  performed  in  15  to  30  minutes.  Patients  receive  on  average 
between one and three treatments at monthly intervals.  

Skin Laxity- Our Titan technology allows our customers to use deep dermal heating to tighten lax skin. The practitioner 
delivers a spectrum of light to the skin through our Titan hand piece. This hand piece includes our proprietary light 
source and wavelength filter which tailors the delivered spectrum of light to provide heating at the desired depth in the 
skin.  

In treating skin laxity, the hand piece is placed directly on the skin and then the light pulse is triggered. A sustained 
pulse  causes  significant  heating  in  the  dermis.  This  heating  can  cause  immediate  collagen  contraction  while  also 
stimulating long-term collagen re-growth. Several treatments may be required to obtain the desired degree of tightening 
of the skin. The treatment of a full face can take over an hour and there are typically four weeks between treatments.  

Our CE Mark allows us to market the Titan in the European Union, Australia and certain other countries outside the 
United States for the treatment of wrinkles through skin tightening. However, in the United States we have a 510(k) 
clearance for only deep dermal heating.  

Sales and Marketing  

In  the  United  States  we  market  and  sell  our  products  primarily  through  a  direct  sales  organization.  Generally,  each 
direct sales employee is assigned a specific territory. As of December 31, 2010, we had a U.S. direct sales force of 19 
employees. We internally manage our U.S. and Canadian sales organization as one North American sales region with 
27 territories as of December 31, 2010. In addition to direct sales employees, we have a distribution relationship with 
PSS  World  Medical  that  operates  medical  supply  distribution  service  centers  with  over  700  sales  representatives 
serving physician offices throughout the United States. Revenue from PSS was $2.6 million in 2010, $3.8 million in 
2009, and $12.1 million in 2008.  

10 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
International  sales  are  generally  made  through  a  direct  international  sales  force  of  26  employees,  as  well  as  a 
worldwide distributor network in over 35 countries as of December 31, 2010. As of December 31, 2010, we had direct 
sales  offices  in  Australia,  Canada,  France,  Japan,  Spain,  Switzerland  and  the  United  Kingdom.  Our  international 
revenue as a percentage of total revenue represented 64% in 2010, 61% in 2009, and 50% in 2008.  

We also sell certain items like Titan hand piece refills and marketing brochures via the internet.  

Although  specific  customer  requirements  can  vary  depending  on  applications,  customers  generally  demand  quality, 
performance,  ease  of  use,  and  high  productivity  in  relation  to  the  cost  of  ownership.  We  have  responded  to  these 
customer demands by introducing new products focused on these requirements in the markets we serve. Specifically, 
we  believe  that  we  introduce  new  products  and  applications  that  are  innovative,  address  the  specific  aesthetic 
procedures  in  demand,  and  are  upgradeable  on  our  customers’  existing  systems.  In  addition,  we  provide  attractive 
upgrade  pricing  to  new  product  families  and  are  responsive  to  our  customers’  financing  preferences.  To  increase 
market  penetration,  in  addition  to  marketing  to  the  core  specialties  of  plastic  surgeons  and  dermatologists,  we  also 
market  to  the  non-core  aesthetic  practices  consisting  of  gynecologists,  primary  care  physicians,  family  practitioners, 
physicians offering aesthetic treatments in non-medical offices and other qualified practitioners.  

We seek to establish strong ongoing relationships with our customers through the upgradeability of our products, sales 
of  extended  service  contracts,  the  refilling  of  Titan  hand  pieces,  ongoing  training  and  support,  and  distributing  (in 
Japan  only)  a  dermal  filler  product.  We  primarily  target  our  marketing  efforts  to  practitioners  through  office  visits, 
workshops,  trade  shows,  webinars  and  trade  journals.  We  also  market  to  potential  patients  through  brochures, 
workshops and our website. In addition, we offer clinical forums with recognized expert panelists to promote advanced 
treatment techniques using our products to further enhance customer loyalty and uncover new sales opportunities.  

Competition  

Our  industry  is  subject  to  intense  competition.  Our  products  compete  against  conventional  non-energy-based 
treatments, such as electrolysis, Botox and collagen injections, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and sclerotherapy. 
Our products also compete against laser and light-based products offered by public companies, such as Cynosure, Elen 
(in  Italy),  Iridex,  Palomar,  Solta  and  Syneron,  as  well  as  private  companies,  including,  Alma,  Lumenis,  Sciton  and 
several other companies.  

Competition  among  providers  of  laser  and  other  energy-based  devices  for  the  aesthetic  market  is  characterized  by 
extensive  research  efforts  and  innovative  technology.  While  we  attempt  to  protect  our  products  through  patents  and 
other intellectual property rights, there are few barriers to entry that would prevent new entrants or existing competitors 
from developing products that would compete directly with ours. There are many companies, both public and private, 
that  are  developing  innovative  devices  that  use  both  energy-based  and  alternative  technologies.  Some  of  these 
competitors  have  greater  resources  than  we  do  or  product  applications  for  certain  sub-markets  in  which  we  do  not 
participate.  Additional  competitors  may  enter  the  market,  and  we  are  likely  to  compete  with  new  companies  in  the 
future. To compete effectively, we have to demonstrate that our products are attractive alternatives to other devices and 
treatments  by  differentiating  our  products  on  the  basis  of  performance,  brand  name,  service  and  price.  We  have 
encountered,  and  expect  to  continue  to  encounter,  potential  customers  who,  due  to  existing  relationships  with  our 
competitors, are committed to, or prefer the products offered by these competitors. Competitive pressures may result in 
price reductions and reduced margins for our products.  

Research and Development  

Our  research  and  development  group  develops  new  products  and  applications  and  builds  clinical  support  to  address 
unmet  or  underserved  market  needs.  As  of  December  31,  2010,  our  research  and  development  activities  were 
conducted by  a  staff  of  24  employees  with  a  broad base of  experience in  lasers,  optoelectronics,  software  and  other 
fields.  We  have  developed  relationships  with  outside  contract  engineering  and  design  consultants,  giving  our  team 
additional technical and creative breadth. We work closely with thought leaders and customers, to understand unmet 
needs and emerging applications in aesthetic medicine. Research and development expenses were approximately $7.0 
million in 2010, $6.8 million in 2009 and $7.6 million in 2008.  

11 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service and Support  

Our products are engineered to enable quick and efficient service and support. There are several separate components 
of our products, each of which can easily be removed and replaced. We believe that quick and effective delivery of 
service  is  important  to  our  customers.  As  of  December  31,  2010,  we  had  a  31-person  global  service  department. 
Internationally, we provide direct service support through our Australia, Canada, France, Japan, Spain and Switzerland 
offices,  and  also  through  the  network  of  distributors  in  over  35  countries  and  third-party  service  providers.  We 
historically have provided a standard one-year or two-year warranty coverage on our systems. We have a standard one-
year  warranty  on  all  systems.  We  provide  initial  warranties  on  our  products  to  cover  parts  and  service  and  offer 
extended  service  plans  that  vary  by  the  type  of  product  and  the  level  of  service  desired.  Our  standard  warranty  on 
system consoles covers parts and service for a standard period of one year. From time to time, we also have promotions 
whereby we include a post-warranty service contract with the sale of our products. Customers are notified before their 
initial  warranty  expires  and  are  able  to  choose  from  two  different  extended  service  plans  covering  preventative 
maintenance or replacement parts and labor. In the event a customer does not purchase an extended service plan, we 
will  offer  to  service  the  customer’s  system  and  charge  the  customer  for  time  and  materials.  Our  Titan  hand  pieces 
generally include a warranty for a set number of shots instead of for a period of time.  We have invested substantial 
financial and management resources to develop a worldwide infrastructure to meet the service needs of our customers 
worldwide.  

Manufacturing  

We manufacture our products with components and subassemblies supplied by vendors. We assemble and test each of 
our  products  at  our  Brisbane,  California  facility.  Quality  control,  cost  reduction  and  inventory  management  are  top 
priorities of our manufacturing operations.  

We purchase certain components and subassemblies from a limited number of suppliers. We have flexibility with our 
suppliers to adjust the number of components and subassemblies as well as the delivery schedules. The forecasts we 
use  are  based  on  historical  demands  and  sales  projections.  Lead  times  for  components  and  subassemblies  may  vary 
significantly depending on the size of the order, time required to fabricate and test the components or subassemblies, 
specific  supplier  requirements  and  current  market  demand  for  the  components  and  subassemblies.  We  reduce  the 
potential for disruption of supply by maintaining sufficient inventories and identifying additional suppliers. The time 
required to qualify new suppliers for some components, or to redesign them, could cause delays in our manufacturing. 
To date, we have not experienced significant delays in obtaining any of our components or subassemblies.  

We use small quantities of common cleaning products in our manufacturing operations, which are lawfully disposed of 
through  a  normal  waste  management  program.  We  do  not  forecast  any  material  costs  due  to  compliance  with 
environmental laws or regulations.  

We are required to manufacture our products in compliance with the FDA’s Quality System Regulation, or QSR. The 
QSR covers the methods and documentation of the design, testing, control, manufacturing, labeling, quality assurance, 
packaging,  storage  and  shipping  of  our  products.  The  FDA  enforces  the  QSR  through  periodic  unannounced 
inspections.  We  had  a  full  quality  system  audit  in  2008  and  an  FDA  audit  of  compliance  with  laser  performance 
standards in 2010 for our single manufacturing facility located in Brisbane, CA. There were no significant findings as a 
result  of  this  audit  and  our  responses  have  been  accepted  by  the  FDA.  Our  failure  to  maintain  compliance  with  the 
QSR requirements could result in the shut down of our manufacturing operations and the recall of our products, which 
would have a material adverse effect on business. In the event that one of our suppliers fails to maintain compliance 
with our quality requirements, we may have to qualify a new supplier and could experience manufacturing delays as a 
result. We have opted to maintain quality assurance and quality management certifications to enable us to market our 
products  in  the  United  States,  the  member  states  of  the  European  Union,  the  European  Free  Trade  Association  and 
countries  which  have  entered  into  Mutual  Recognition  Agreements  with  the  European  Union.  Our  manufacturing 
facility is ISO 13485 certified.  

12 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Patents and Proprietary Technology  

We rely on a combination of patent, copyright, trademark and trade secret laws, and non-disclosure, confidentiality and 
invention  assignment  agreements  to  protect  our  intellectual  property  rights.  As  of  December  31,  2010,  we  had  17 
issued  U.S.  patents  and  24  pending  U.S.  patent  applications.  Acutip  500,  Cutera,  CoolGlide,  CoolGlide  Excel, 
Limelight, Pearl, Pearl Fractional, ProWave 770, Solera, Solera Titan, Titan and Xeo are only some of the trademarks 
and/or service marks of Cutera in the U.S. and other countries. We have trademark rights to these names and others in 
the  United  States  and  certain  other  countries.  We  intend  to  file  for  additional  patents  and  trademarks  to  continue  to 
strengthen our intellectual property rights.  

We license certain patents from Palomar and pay ongoing royalties based on sales of applicable hair-removal products. 
The royalty rate on these products ranges from 3.75% to 7.50% of revenue. The patents are set to expire in February 
2013 and February 2015. Our revenue from systems that do not include hair-removal capabilities (such as our Solera 
Titan,  Xeo  SA,  GenesisPlus  and  Excel  V);  and  other  revenue  from  service  contracts,  Titan  refills,  Fillers  and 
cosmeceuticals, are not subject to these royalties. In addition, in 2006 we capitalized $1.2 million as an intangible asset 
representing the ongoing license for these patents, which is being amortized on a straight-line basis over their expected 
useful  life  of  9-10  years.  We  also  have  a  technology  sublicense  purchased  in  2002,  which  is  being  amortized  on  a 
straight-line basis over its expected useful life of 10 years.  

Our  employees  and  technical  consultants  are  required  to execute  confidentiality  agreements  in  connection  with  their 
employment  and  consulting  relationships  with  us.  We  also  require  them  to  agree  to  disclose  and  assign  to  us  all 
inventions  conceived  in  connection  with  the  relationship.  We  cannot  provide  any  assurance  that  employees  and 
consultants  will  abide  by  the  confidentiality  or  assignability  terms  of  their  agreements.  Despite  measures  taken  to 
protect our intellectual property, unauthorized parties may copy aspects of our products or obtain and use information 
that we regard as proprietary.  

Government Regulation  

Our  products  are  medical  devices  subject  to  extensive  and  rigorous  regulation  by  the  U.S.  Food  and  Drug 
Administration,  as  well  as  other  regulatory bodies.  FDA  regulations  govern  the following  activities  that  we  perform 
and will continue to perform to ensure that medical products distributed domestically or exported internationally are 
safe and effective for their intended uses:  

•  Product design and development;  
•  Product testing;  
•  Product manufacturing;  
•  Product safety;  
•  Product labeling;  
•  Product storage;  
•  Recordkeeping;  
•  Pre-market clearance or approval;  
•  Advertising and promotion;  
•  Production; and  
•  Product sales and distribution.  

FDA’s Pre-market Clearance and Approval Requirements  

Unless an exemption applies, each medical device we wish to commercially distribute in the United States will require 
either prior 510(k) clearance or pre-market approval from the FDA. The FDA classifies medical devices into one of 
three classes. Devices deemed to pose lower risks are placed in either class I or II, which requires the manufacturer to 
submit to the FDA a pre-market notification requesting permission to commercially distribute the device. This process 
is generally known as 510(k) clearance. Some low risk devices are exempted from this requirement. Devices deemed 
by the FDA to pose the greatest risk, such as life-sustaining, life-supporting or implantable devices, or devices deemed 
not  substantially  equivalent  to  a  previously  cleared  510(k)  device,  are  placed  in  class  III,  requiring  pre-market 
approval. All of our current products are class II devices.  

13 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
510(k) Clearance Pathway  

When a 510(k) clearance is required, we must submit a pre-market notification demonstrating that our proposed device 
is substantially equivalent to a previously cleared 510(k) device or a device that was in commercial distribution before 
May 28, 1976 for which the FDA has not yet called for the submission of Pre-Market Approval, or PMA, applications. 
By regulation, the FDA is required to clear or deny a 510(k), pre-market notification within 90 days of submission of 
the  application.  As  a  practical  matter,  clearance  often  takes  significantly  longer.  The  FDA  may  require  further 
information, including clinical data, to make a determination regarding substantial equivalence. Laser devices used for 
aesthetic procedures, such as hair removal, have generally qualified for clearance under 510(k) procedures.  

The following table details the indications for which we received a 510(k) clearance for our products and when these 
clearances were received.  

FDA Marketing Clearances: 
Laser-based products: 

-  treatment of vascular lesions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
-  hair removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
-  permanent hair reduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
-  treatment of benign pigmented lesions and pseudofolliculitis barbae, commonly referred to 
as razor bumps, and for the reduction of red pigmentation in scars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
-  treatment of wrinkles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Pulsed-light technologies: 

-  treatment of pigmented lesions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
-  hair removal and vascular treatments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Date Received: 

June 1999 
March 2000 
January 2001 

June 2002
October 2002 

March 2003 
March 2005 

Infrared Titan technology for deep dermal heating for the temporary relief of minor muscle 

and joint pain and for the temporary increase in local circulation where applied . . . . . . . . . . . . .

February 2004

Solera tabletop console: 

-  for use with the Titan hand piece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
-  for use with our pulsed-light hand pieces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

October 2004 
January 2005 

Pearl product for the treatment of wrinkles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

March 2007 

Pearl Fractional product for skin resurfacing and coagulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

August 2008 

Pre-Market Approval (PMA) Pathway  

A PMA must be submitted to the FDA if the device cannot be cleared through the 510(k) process. A PMA must be 
supported  by  extensive  data,  including  but  not  limited  to,  technical,  preclinical,  clinical  trials,  manufacturing  and 
labeling to demonstrate to the FDA’s satisfaction the safety and effectiveness of the device. No device that we have 
developed to date has required pre-market approval, although development of future devices or indications may require 
pre-market approval.  

Product Modifications  

We  have  modified  aspects  of  our  products  since  receiving  regulatory  clearance,  but  we  believe  that  new  510(k) 
clearances  are  not  required  for  these  modifications.  After  a  device  receives  510(k)  clearance  or  a  PMA,  any 
modification  that  could  significantly  affect  its  safety  or  effectiveness,  or  that  would  constitute  a  major  change  in  its 
intended  use,  will  require  a  new  clearance  or  approval.  The  FDA  requires  each  manufacturer  to  make  this 
determination  initially,  but  the  FDA  can  review  any  such  decision  and  can  disagree  with  a  manufacturer’s 
determination. If the FDA disagrees with our determination not to seek a new 510(k) clearance or PMA, the FDA may 
retroactively  require  us  to  seek  510(k)  clearance  or  pre-market  approval.  The  FDA  could  also  require  us  to  cease 
marketing and distribution and/or recall the modified device until 510(k) clearance or pre-market approval is obtained. 
Also, in these circumstances, we may be subject to significant regulatory fines or penalties.  

14 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Clinical Trials  

When FDA approval of a class I, class II or class III device requires human clinical trials, and if the device presents a 
“significant  risk,”  as  defined  by  the  FDA,  to  human  health,  the  device  sponsor  is  required  to  file  an  Investigational 
Device Exemption, or IDE, application with the FDA and obtain IDE approval prior to commencing the human clinical 
trial.  If  the  device  is  considered  a  “non-significant”  risk,  IDE  submission  to  the  FDA  is  not  required.  Instead,  only 
approval from the Institutional Review Board, or IRB, overseeing the clinical trial is required. Human clinical studies 
are generally required in connection with approval of class III devices and may be required for class I and II devices. 
The IDE application must be supported by appropriate data, such as animal and laboratory testing results, showing that 
it is safe to test the device in humans and that the testing protocol is scientifically sound. The IDE must be approved in 
advance by the FDA for a specified number of patients. Clinical trials for a significant risk device may begin once the 
application is reviewed and cleared by the FDA and the appropriate institutional review boards at the clinical trial sites. 
Future clinical trials of our products may require that we submit and obtain clearance of an IDE from the FDA prior to 
commencing clinical trials. The FDA, and the IRB at each institution at which a clinical trial is being performed, may 
suspend  a  clinical  trial  at  any  time  for  various  reasons,  including  a  belief  that  the  subjects  are  being  exposed  to  an 
unacceptable health risk.  

Pervasive and Continuing Regulation  

After a device is placed on the market, numerous regulatory requirements apply. These include:  

•  Quality system regulations, which require manufacturers, including third-party manufacturers, to follow 
stringent design, testing, control, documentation and other quality assurance procedures during all aspects 
of the manufacturing process; 

•  Labeling regulations and FDA prohibitions against the promotion of products for un-cleared, unapproved 

or “off-label” uses;  

•  Medical device reporting regulations, which require that manufacturers report to the FDA if their device 
may have caused or contributed to a death or serious injury or malfunctioned in a way that would likely 
cause or contribute to a death or serious injury if the malfunction were to recur; and  

•  Post-market  surveillance  regulations,  which  apply  when  necessary  to  protect  the  public  health  or  to 

provide additional safety and effectiveness data for the device.  

The FDA has broad post-market and regulatory enforcement powers. We are subject to unannounced inspections by 
the FDA and the Food and Drug Branch of the California Department of Health Services, or CDHS, to determine our 
compliance with the QSR and other regulations, and these inspections may include the manufacturing facilities of our 
subcontractors. In the past, our prior facility has been inspected, and observations were noted. There were no findings 
that involved a material violation of regulatory requirements. Our responses to these observations have been accepted 
by the FDA and CDHS, and we believe that we are in substantial compliance with the QSR. Our current manufacturing 
facility has been inspected by the FDA and the CDHS. The FDA and the CDHS noted observations, but there were no 
findings that involved a material violation of regulatory requirements. Our responses to those observations have been 
accepted by the FDA and CDHS.  

We are also regulated under the Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act, which requires laser products to comply 
with  performance  standards,  including  design  and  operation  requirements,  and  manufacturers  to  certify  in  product 
labeling  and  in  reports  to  the  FDA  that  their  products  comply  with  all  such  standards.  The  law  also  requires  laser 
manufacturers  to  file  new  product  and  annual  reports,  maintain  manufacturing,  testing  and  sales  records,  and  report 
product defects. Various warning labels must be affixed and certain protective devices installed, depending on the class 
of the product.  

Failure to comply with applicable regulatory requirements can result in enforcement action by the FDA, which may 
include any of the following sanctions:  

•  Warning letters, fines, injunctions, consent decrees and civil penalties;  
•  Repair, replacement, recall or seizure of our products;  
•  Operating restrictions or partial suspension or total shutdown of production;  
•  Refusing our requests for 510(k) clearance or pre-market approval of new products, new intended uses, or 

modifications to existing products;  

15 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
•  Withdrawing 510(k) clearance or pre-market approvals that have already been granted; and  
•  Criminal prosecution.  

The FDA also has the authority to require us to repair, replace or refund the cost of any medical device that we have 
manufactured  or  distributed.  If  any  of  these  events  were  to  occur,  they  could  have  a  material  adverse  effect  on  our 
business.  

We  are  also  subject  to  a  wide  range  of  federal,  state  and  local  laws  and  regulations,  including  those  related  to  the 
environment,  health  and  safety,  land  use  and  quality  assurance.  We  believe  that  compliance  with  these  laws  and 
regulations  as  currently  in  effect  will  not  have  a  material  adverse  effect  on  our  capital  expenditures,  earnings  and 
competitive and financial position.  

International  

International sales of medical devices are subject to foreign governmental regulations, which vary substantially from 
country to country. The time required to obtain clearance or approval by a foreign country may be longer or shorter 
than that required for FDA clearance or approval, and the requirements may be different.  

The primary regulatory environment in Europe is that of the European Union, which consists of a number of countries 
encompassing most of the major countries in Europe. The member states of the European Free Trade Association have 
voluntarily  adopted  laws  and  regulations  that  mirror  those  of  the  European  Union  with  respect  to  medical  devices. 
Other countries, such as Switzerland, have entered into Mutual Recognition Agreements and allow the  marketing of 
medical devices that meet European Union requirements. The European Union has adopted numerous directives and 
European  Standardization  Committees  have  promulgated  voluntary  standards  regulating  the  design,  manufacture, 
clinical trials, labeling and adverse event reporting for medical devices. Devices that comply with the requirements of a 
relevant directive will be entitled to bear CE conformity marking, indicating that the device conforms with the essential 
requirements  of  the  applicable  directives  and,  accordingly,  can  be  commercially  distributed  throughout  the  member 
states  of  the  European  Union,  the  member  states  of  the  European  Free  Trade  Association  and  countries  which  have 
entered into a Mutual Recognition Agreement. The method of assessing conformity varies depending on the type and 
class  of  the  product,  but  normally  involves  a  combination  of  self-assessment  by  the  manufacturer  and  a  third-party 
assessment  by  a  Notified  Body,  an  independent  and  neutral  institution  appointed  by  a  country  to  conduct  the 
conformity assessment. This third-party assessment may consist of an audit of the manufacturer’s quality system and 
specific testing of the manufacturer’s device. An assessment by a Notified Body in one member state of the European 
Union, the European Free Trade Association or one country which has entered into a Mutual Recognition Agreement is 
required in order for a manufacturer to commercially distribute the product throughout these countries. ISO 9001 and 
ISO  13845  certification  are  voluntary  harmonized  standards.  Compliance  establishes  the  presumption  of  conformity 
with the essential requirements for a CE Marking. In February 2000, our facility was awarded the ISO 9001 and EN 
46001 certification. In March 2003, we received our ISO 9001 updated certification (ISO 9001:2000) as well as our 
certification  for  ISO  13485:1996  which  replaced  our  EN  46001  certification.  In  March  2004,  we  received  our  ISO 
13485:2003  certification,  which  is  the  most  current  ISO  certification  for  medical  device  companies,  and  in  March 
2006, March 2010, and February 2011 we passed our ISO 13485 recertification audits.  

Employees  

As of December 31, 2010, we had 187 employees, compared to 186 employees as of December 31, 2009. Of the 187 
employees  at  December  31,  2010,  77  were  in  sales  and  marketing,  33  in  manufacturing  operations,  31  in  technical 
service, 24 in research and development and 22 in general and administrative. We believe that our future success will 
depend  in  part  on  our  continued  ability  to  attract,  hire  and  retain  qualified  personnel.  None  of  our  employees  are 
represented by a labor union, and we believe our employee relations are good.  

16 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Available Information  

We  are  subject  to  the  reporting  requirements  under  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934.  Consequently,  we  are 
required to file reports and information with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including reports on 
the following forms: annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and 
amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934.  These  reports  and  other  information  concerning  the  company  may  be  accessed  through  the  SEC’s  website  at 
http://www.sec.gov. Such filings, as well as our charters for our Audit and Compensation Committees and our Code of 
Ethics are available on our website at http://www.cutera.com. In the event that we grant a waiver under our Code of 
Ethics to any of our officers and directors, we will publish it on our website.  

ITEM 1A. 

RISK FACTORS  

The recent earthquake and tsunami, and other collateral events, in Japan may adversely affect the demand for our 
products  and  services  in  the  Japanese  market,  which  may  cause  a  decline  in  revenues  and  negatively  affect  our 
operating results.  

We have two direct sales offices in Japan and generate revenue from the sale of systems, upgrades, Titan refills, fillers, 
cosmeceuticals  and  services.  Revenue  sourced  from  the  Japanese  market  was  approximately  $13.6  million  in  2010, 
$9.6 million in 2009 and $10.9 million in 2008. In 2010, our Japanese sourced revenue represented 26% of our world 
wide revenue and we experienced growth from all of our product categories, including Fillers and Cosmeceuticals due 
to the commencement of the distribution of cosmeceutical products in 2010.  

The recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan, and other collateral events, including, among others, the catastrophic loss 
of lives, businesses, infrastructure, and delays in transportation, may have a direct negative impact on us or an indirect 
impact on us by affecting our employees, customers, or the overall economy in Japan and may reduce the demand for 
our products and services. As a result, these events could cause a decline in our revenue in Japan and our results of 
operations could be materially and adversely affected.  

In 2010, our U.S. revenue decreased by approximately 8%, compared to the same period in 2009. Our U.S. revenue 
is  significantly  below  the  pre-2009  level  due  in  part  to  customers  purchasing  fewer  applications  and  declining 
average  selling  prices  (or  ASPs).  In  addition,  we  experienced  a  temporary  decline  in  our  Titan  refill  revenue  in 
2010, compared to 2009, due to a voluntary recall of certain Titan XL hand pieces. All customers that had a Titan 
XL hand pieces subject to the recall were provided with fully refilled hand pieces, which delayed their purchase of a 
refill.  If  our  U.S.  revenue  does  not  improve,  it  could  have  a  material  adverse  effect  on  our  total  revenue, 
profitability, employee retention and stock price.  

In 2010, our U.S. revenue decreased by approximately 8%, compared to 2009. Our U.S. revenue is significantly below 
the pre-2009 level due to several factors, some of which are:  

•  Our  Product  and  Upgrade  ASPs  in  2010  were  lower  than  the  pre-2010  levels  as  a  result  of  customers 
purchasing  fewer  applications  for  systems  and  lower  pricing  resulting  from  competitive  discounting 
pressures. 

•  Historically,  we  have  introduced  a  new  product  every  year  since  2000,  which  typically  resulted  in 
increased revenue. However, in 2009 and until August 2010, we did not have a new product. In 2010 we 
launched GenesisPlus and in February 2011, we introduced our Excel V laser system ─ a unique vascular 
work station designed specifically for the core-market of Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons. However, 
even  though we  have  introduced  these  new  products, there  can  be  no  assurance  that  they  will  translate 
into increased revenue in the U.S. in 2011.  

•  We  experienced  a  temporary  decline  in  our  Titan  refill  revenue  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  due  to  a 
voluntary recall of certain Titan XL hand pieces. All customers that had a Titan XL hand piece subject to 
the recall were provided with fully refilled hand pieces, which delayed their purchase of a refill.  

If  our  U.S.  revenue  does  not  improve,  it  could  have  a  material  adverse  effect  on  our  total  revenue,  profitability, 
employee retention and stock price.  

17 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We  rely  heavily  on  our  sales  professionals  to  market  and  sell  our  products  worldwide.  If  we  are  unable  to  hire, 
effectively  train,  manage,  improve  the  productivity  of,  and  retain  the  sales  professionals,  our  business  will  be 
harmed, which would impair our future revenue and profitability.  

Our  success  largely  depends  on  our  ability  to  hire,  train,  manage  and  improve  the  productivity  levels  of  our  sales 
professionals worldwide. Because of our focus on the non-core market in the past, several of our sales professionals do 
not have established relationships with core market physicians (Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons) or where those 
relationships exist, they are not very strong. In addition, we have lost some of our sales professionals in response to the 
decline in their earnings resulting from the decreases in their commissions.  

We have selectively hired, and continue to do so, new sales professionals in key territories to fill vacant positions. For 
example, in December 2010, Michael Poole joined us as Vice President of North American Sales, which allowed our 
previous  Vice  President  of  North  American  Sales  to  return  to  Japan  in  an  expanded  role  to  lead  our  Pacific  Rim 
operations.  We  have  been  training  our  existing,  and  recently  recruited,  sales  professionals  to  better  understand  our 
product technology and how it can be positioned against our competitors’ products. These initiatives are intended to 
improve our revenue and profitability.  

Although  Mr.  Poole  has  over  17  years  of  a  broad  range  of  sales  experience  and  was  employed  by  us  from  2004  to 
2008, Mr. Poole has limited prior experience in managing a large sales force. Measures we implement in an effort to 
retain,  train  and  manage  our  sales  professionals,  strengthen  their  relationships  with  core  market  physicians,  and 
improve their productivity may not be successful and may instead contribute to instability in our operations, additional 
departures from our sales organization, or further reduce our revenue and harm to our business.  

If our revenue does not improve from the 2010 level, or if our cost of revenue and/ or operating expenses increase, 
our gross margins and operating margins may be adversely impacted, our loss from operations will increase, and 
our cash used in operating activities will increase, which could reduce our assets and have a material adverse effect 
on our stock price.  

Our gross margin in 2010 was 57%, compared with 59% in 2009 and 61% in 2008. Our gross margin is impacted by 
the  revenue  that  we  generate  and  the  costs  incurred  to  generate  the  revenue.  Our  future  revenue  may  be  adversely 
affected by a number of factors including, the competitive market environment in which we operate, which may result 
in a decrease in the number of units sold, a decrease in the number of applications per system purchased by customers, 
a  decrease  in  the  average  selling  prices  achieved  for  our  product  sales,  or  a  shift  in  our  product  mix.  Our  cost  of 
revenue may also be adversely impacted by various factors such as obsolescence of our inventory, increased expenses 
associated with repairing defective products covered by our warranty program, and utilization of our relatively fixed 
manufacturing costs.  

In  response  to  reduced  revenue,  in  2009  we  reduced  our  expense  levels  in  various  departments  including  sales, 
marketing, customer relations, manufacturing, and service departments. We implemented three reduction-in-force (or 
RIF) programs in 2009, specifically targeting positions that were directly impacted by the recession. Even though we 
implemented the restructurings, we had a significant loss from operations and used significant cash in our operations in 
2010.  

If our revenue does not improve from the 2010 level, or if our cost of revenue increases, or if we are not able to reduce 
expenses in the event of a decline in revenue, we may continue to generate losses from operations and use cash, which 
could reduce our assets and have a material adverse effect on our operations and stock price.  

Demand for our products in any of our markets could be weakened by several factors, including:  

•  Our  ability  to  develop  and  market  our  products  to  the  core  market  specialties  of  dermatologists  and 

plastic surgeons;  

•  Poor  financial  performance  of  market  segments  that  try  introducing  aesthetic  procedures  to  their 

businesses;  

•  The inability to differentiate our products from those of our competitors;  
•  Reduced patient demand for elective aesthetic procedures;  
•  Failure to build and maintain relationships with opinion leaders within the various market segments;  

18 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
•  An increase in malpractice lawsuits that result in higher insurance costs; and  
•  The lack of credit financing for some of our potential customers.  

If we do not achieve anticipated demand for our products, it could have a material adverse effect on our total revenue, 
profitability, employee retention and stock price.  

The  aesthetic  equipment  market  is  characterized  by  rapid  innovation.  To  compete  effectively,  we  must  develop 
and/or acquire new products, market them successfully, and identify new markets for our technology.  

We have created products to apply our technology to hair removal, treatment of veins and skin rejuvenation, including 
the treating of diffuse redness, skin laxity, fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, pore size and pigmented lesions. Currently, 
these applications represent the majority of offered laser and light-based aesthetic procedures. We have recently started 
distributing topical skin creams and dermal fillers in the Japanese market. To grow in the future, we must develop and 
acquire  new  and  innovative  aesthetic  products  and  applications,  identify  new  markets,  and  successfully  launch  the 
newly acquired or developed product offerings.  

To successfully expand our product offerings, we must, among other things:  

•  Develop  and  acquire  new  products  that  either  add  to  or  significantly  improve  our  current  product 

offerings;  

•  Convince  our  existing  and  prospective  customers  that  our  product  offerings  would  be  an  attractive 

revenue-generating addition to their practice;  
•  Sell our product offerings to a broad customer base;  
• 
•  Protect our existing and future products with defensible intellectual property; and  
•  Satisfy and maintain all regulatory requirements for commercialization.  

Identify new markets and alternative applications for our technology;  

Except for 2009, we have introduced a new product every year since 2000. In February 2011, we announced the release 
of our Excel V laser system, a unique vascular work station designed specifically for the core-market of Dermatologists 
and Plastic Surgeons. In 2010, we launched GenesisPlus, a laser specifically created for the aesthetic treatment of toes 
and  feet.  Historically,  product  introductions  have  been  a  significant  component  of  our  financial  performance.  To  be 
successful in the aesthetics industry, we need to continue to innovate. Our business strategy has therefore been based, 
in  part,  on  our  expectation  that  we  will  continue  to  increase  our  product  offerings.  We  need  to  continue  to  devote 
substantial  research  and  development  resources  to  make  new  product  introductions,  which  can  be  costly  and  time 
consuming to our organization.  

In January 2011, we announced the appointment of Len DeBenedictis as Chief Technology Officer to lead our research 
and  product  development  efforts.  Our  current  Vice  President  of  Research  and  Development  will  report  to  Mr. 
DeBenedictis.  Although  Mr.  DeBenedictis  has  over  20  years  of  laser  and  light-based  industry  experience  and  an 
outstanding  background  to  lead  our  research  and  product  development  efforts,  there  is  no  guarantee  that  we  will  be 
able  to  continue  our  trend  of  regular  new  product  introductions  or  that  such  management  change  will  result  in  an 
improved research and development organization. Also, we may need additional research and development resources 
to make new product introductions, which may be more costly and time consuming to our organization.  

We  also  believe  that,  to  increase  revenue  from  sales  of  new  products  and  related  upgrades,  we  need  to  continue  to 
develop  our  clinical  support,  further  expand  and  nurture  relationships  with  industry  thought  leaders  and  increase 
market  awareness  of  the  benefits  of  our  new  products.  However,  even  with  a  significant  investment  in  research  and 
development,  we  may  be  unable  to  continue  to  develop, acquire  or  effectively  launch  and  market  new products and 
technologies regularly, or at all. If we fail to successfully commercialize new products, our business may be harmed.  

19 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
While we attempt to protect our products through patents and other intellectual property, there are few barriers to entry 
that would prevent new entrants or existing competitors from developing products that compete directly with ours. For 
example, while our CoolGlide product was the first long-pulse Nd:YAG, or long wavelength, laser system cleared by 
the FDA for permanent hair reduction on all skin types, competitors have subsequently introduced systems that utilize 
Nd:YAG lasers, and received FDA clearances to market these products as treating all skin types. We expect that any 
competitive  advantage  we  may  enjoy  from  other  current  and  future  innovations,  such  as  combining  multiple  hand 
pieces  in  a  single  system  to  perform  a  variety  of  applications,  may  diminish  over  time  as  companies  successfully 
respond to our, or create their own, innovations. Consequently, we believe that we will have to continuously innovate 
and  improve  our  products  and  technology  to  compete  successfully.  If  we  are  unable  to  innovate  successfully,  our 
products  could  become  obsolete  and  our  revenue  could  decline  as  our  customers  and  prospects  purchase  our 
competitors’ products.  

Our ability to effectively compete and generate additional revenue from new and existing products depend upon our 
ability to distinguish our company and our products from our competitors and their products, and to develop and 
effectively market new and existing products. Our success is dependent on many factors, including the following:  

Identify and develop clinical support for new indications of our existing products;  

•  Speed of new and innovative product development;  
•  Effective strategy and execution of new product launches;  
• 
•  Product performance;  
•  Product pricing;  
•  Quality of customer support;  
•  Development of successful distribution channels, both domestically and internationally; and  
• 

Intellectual property protection.  

To compete effectively, we have to demonstrate that our new and existing products are attractive alternatives to other 
devices and treatments, by differentiating our products on the basis of such factors as innovation, performance, brand 
name, service, and price. This is difficult to do, especially in a crowded aesthetic market. Some of our competitors have 
newer or different products and more established customer relationships than we do, which could inhibit our market 
penetration efforts. For example, we have encountered, and expect to continue to encounter, situations where, due to 
pre-existing relationships, potential customers decided to purchase additional products from our competitors. Potential 
customers  also  may  need  to  recoup  the  cost  of  products  that  they  have  already  purchased  from  our  competitors  and 
may decide not to purchase our products, or to delay such purchases.  

If  we  are  unable  to  increase  our  market  penetration  or  compete  effectively,  our  revenue  and  profitability  will  be 
adversely impacted.  

We compete against companies that offer alternative solutions to our products, or have greater resources, a larger 
installed base of customers and broader product offerings than ours. If we are not able to effectively compete with 
these companies, it may harm our business.  

Our  industry  is  subject  to  intense  competition.  Our  products  compete  against  similar  products  offered  by  public 
companies,  such  as  Cynosure,  Elen  (in  Italy),  Iridex,  Palomar,  Solta,  and  Syneron  and  as  well  as  private  companies 
such  as  Alma,  Lumenis,  Sciton  and  several  other  companies.  Recently,  there has been  consolidation in  the  aesthetic 
industry leading to companies combining their resources. For example, Solta (previously Thermage) acquired Reliant 
in December 2008 and Aesthera in February 2010; and Syneron acquired Candela in September 2009. We are likely to 
compete with new companies in the future. Competition with these companies could result in reduced selling prices, 
reduced profit margins and loss of market share, any of which would harm our business, financial condition and results 
of operations.  

The  energy-based  aesthetic  market  faces  competition  from  non  energy-based  medical  products,  such  as  Botox,  an 
injectable  compound  used  to  reduce  wrinkles,  and  collagen  injections.  Other  alternatives  to  the  use  of  our  products 
include electrolysis, a procedure involving the application of electric current to eliminate hair follicles, and chemical 
peels. We may also face competition from manufacturers of pharmaceutical and other products that have not yet been 
developed.  

20 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If there is not sufficient consumer demand for the procedures performed with our products, practitioner demand for 
our products could be inhibited, resulting in unfavorable operating results and reduced growth potential.  

Continued expansion of the global market for laser and light-based aesthetic procedures is a material assumption of our 
business  strategy.  Most  procedures  performed  using  our  products  are  elective  procedures  not  reimbursable  through 
government or private health insurance, with the costs borne by the patient. The decision to utilize our products may 
therefore be influenced by a number of factors, including:  

•  Consumer disposable income and access to consumer credit, which as a result of the unstable economy, 

may have been significantly impacted;  

•  The cost of procedures performed using our products;  
•  The  cost,  safety  and  effectiveness  of  alternative  treatments,  including  treatments  which  are  not  based 

upon laser or light-based technologies and treatments which use pharmaceutical products; 

•  The success of our sales and marketing efforts; and  
•  The  education  of  our  customers  and  patients  on  the  benefits  and  uses  of  our  products,  compared  to 

competitors’ products and technologies.  

If,  as  a  result  of  these  factors,  there  is  not  sufficient  demand  for  the  procedures  performed  with  our  products, 
practitioner demand  for  our products  could  be  reduced, which could have  a  material  adverse  effect on  our  business, 
financial condition, revenue and result of operations.  

Any  defects  in  the  design,  material  or  workmanship  of  our  products  may  not  be  discovered  prior  to  shipment  to 
customers, which could materially increase our expenses, adversely impact profitability and harm our business.  

The design of our products is complex. To manufacture them successfully, we must procure quality components and 
employ  individuals  with  a  significant  degree  of  technical  expertise.  If  our  designs  are  defective,  or  the  material 
components used in our products are subject to wearing out, or if suppliers fail to deliver components to specification, 
or  if  our  employees  fail  to  properly  assemble,  test  and  package  our  products,  the  reliability  and  performance  of  our 
products will be adversely impacted. As an example, in 2010, we incurred significant expenses for the voluntary recall 
of our Titan XL hand pieces.  

If our products contain defects that cannot be repaired easily, inexpensively, or on a timely basis, we may experience:  

•  Damage to our brand reputation;  
•  Loss of customer orders and delay in order fulfillment;  
• 
Increased costs due to product repair or replacement;  
• 
Inability to attract new customers;  
•  Diversion  of  resources  from  our  manufacturing  and  research  and  development  departments  into  our 

service department; and  

•  Legal action.  

The occurrence of any one or more of the foregoing could materially increase expenses, adversely impact profitability 
and harm our business. 

We face various risks and uncertainties as a result of our voluntary Titan XL recall program, including harm to our 
business, reputation, financial position and results of operations.  

We  discovered  that  under  specific  conditions,  such  as  infrequent  use  or  operators  not  following  the  prescribed 
maintenance program outlined in the owner’s manual, certain component parts of one of our hand pieces — the Titan 
XL  —  could  become  defective. As  a  result,  the  defective hand piece  could produce  energy  above  that  stated  on  the 
device  setting,  which  could  cause  injury  to  patients,  including  redness,  erythema,  blisters  and  burns.  In  response  to 
discovering this issue, we initiated a voluntary recall of our global installed base of Titan XL hand pieces starting May 
2010 and have now completed the recall. Following a voluntary recall, there is generally an increase in product liability 
lawsuits filed against the Company.  

21 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If there were patients injured due to the malfunctioning of one of our voluntarily recalled Titan XL hand pieces that we 
are not presently aware of, we could incur significant legal fees and expenses in defending and/or settling such claims. 
Although we maintain product liability insurance and accrue for the cost of our deductible under such policies, there is 
no assurance that the entire loss of known claims or claims not known as of this point will be covered by our insurance. 
Each potential claim is evaluated on a case by case basis. At December 31, 2010, we have accrued for the cost of our 
deductible  under  our  product  liability  insurance  policy  for  all  known  claims.  However,  we  have  not  recognized  any 
potential contingent liability that may exceed our insurance coverage associated with any past or future lawsuits that 
may arise, as this is not estimable.  

Our Titan hand piece refill revenue decreased 31% in 2010, compared to 2009. This decrease was due primarily to our 
voluntary recall of our Titan XL hand piece in 2010, in which we provided our eligible customers with a fully refilled 
Titan XL hand piece. If customers do not return to using their Titan hand pieces due to this voluntary recall, our Titan 
refill revenue could be negatively impacted in the future.  

If either of the above mentioned two risks materializes, our revenue and profitability may be adversely affected, could 
materially harm our business, and our stock price could decline.  

Federal  regulatory  reforms  and  changes  occurring  at  the  U.S.  Food  and  Drug  Administration,  or  FDA,  could 
adversely affect our ability to sell our products profitably and financial condition.  

From  time  to  time,  legislation  is  drafted  and  introduced  in  Congress  that  could  significantly  change  the  statutory 
provisions  governing  the  clearance  or  approval,  manufacture  and  marketing  of  a  device.  It  is  impossible  to  predict 
whether  legislative  changes  will  be  enacted  or  FDA  regulations,  guidance  or  interpretations  changed,  and  what  the 
impact of such changes, if any, may be.  

In  addition,  FDA  regulations  and  guidance  are  often  revised  or  reinterpreted  by  the  agency  in  ways  that  may 
significantly affect our business and our products. Changes in FDA regulations may lengthen the regulatory approval 
process  for  medical  devices  and  require  additional  clinical  data  to  support  regulatory  clearance  for  the  sale  and 
marketing of our new products. In addition, it may require additional safety monitoring, labeling changes, restrictions 
on  product  distribution  or  use,  or  other  measures  after  the  introduction  of  our  products  to  market.  Either  of  these 
changes  lengthen  the  duration  to  market,  increase  our  costs  of  doing  business,  adversely  affect  the  future  permitted 
uses of approved products, or otherwise adversely affect the market for our products.  

If we fail to obtain or maintain necessary FDA clearances for our products and indications, if clearances for future 
products and indications are delayed or not issued, if there are federal or state level regulatory changes or if we are 
found to have violated applicable FDA marketing rules, our commercial operations would be harmed.  

Our  products  are  medical  devices  that  are  subject  to  extensive  regulation  in  the  United  States  by  the  FDA  for 
manufacturing, labeling, sale, promotion, distribution and shipping. Before a new medical device, or a new use of or 
labeling  claim  for  an  existing  product,  can  be  marketed  in  the  United  States,  it  must  first  receive  either  510(k) 
clearance or pre-marketing approval from the FDA, unless an exemption applies. Either process can be expensive and 
lengthy. In the event that we do not obtain FDA clearances or approvals for our products, our ability to market and sell 
them in the United States and revenue derived there from may be adversely affected.  

Medical devices may be marketed in the United States only for the indications for which they are approved or cleared 
by the FDA. For example, our recently introduced GenesisPlus product has a number of general indications for use in 
the  U.S.  that  allows  us  to  market  the  product  in  the  U.S.,  however  we  can  only  market  it  internationally  for  the 
treatment of toenail fungus as it has a CE Mark approval. Another example is our Pearl Fractional product which is 
cleared only for skin resurfacing in the U.S. and our Titan product only for deep heating for the temporary relief of 
muscle aches and pains in the U.S. Therefore, we are prevented from promoting or advertising GenesisPlus, Titan and 
Pearl  Fractional  in  the  United  States  for  any  other  indications.  If  we  fail  to  comply  with  these  regulations,  it  could 
result in enforcement action by the FDA which could lead to such consequences as warning letters, adverse publicity, 
criminal enforcement action and/or third-party civil litigation, each of which could adversely affect us.  

22 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We have obtained 510(k) clearance for the indications for which we market our products. However, our clearances can 
be revoked if safety or effectiveness problems develop. We also are subject to Medical Device Reporting regulations, 
which require us to report to the FDA if our products cause or contribute to a death or serious injury, or malfunction in 
a  way  that  would  likely  cause  or  contribute  to  a  death  or  serious  injury.  Our  products  are  also  subject  to  state 
regulations,  which  are,  in  many  instances  frequently  changing.  Changes  in  state  regulations  may  impede  sales.  For 
example, federal regulations allow our products to be sold to, or on the order of, “licensed practitioners,” as determined 
on  a  state-by-state  basis.  As a  result,  in  some  states, non-physicians  may  legally  purchase  our  products.  However,  a 
state  could  change  its  regulations  at  any  time,  thereby  disallowing  sales  to  particular  types  of  end  users.  We  cannot 
predict the impact or effect of future legislation or regulations at the federal or state levels.  

The  FDA  and  state  authorities  have  broad  enforcement  powers.  If  we  fail  to  comply  with  applicable  regulatory 
requirements,  it  could  result  in  enforcement  action  by  the  FDA  or  state  agencies,  which  may  include  any  of  the 
following sanctions:  

•  Warning letters, fines, injunctions, consent decrees and civil penalties;  
•  Repair, replacement, recall or seizure of our products;  
•  Operating restrictions or partial suspension or total shutdown of production;  
•  Refusing our requests for 510(k) clearance or pre-market approval of new products, new intended uses, or 

modifications to existing products;  

•  Withdrawing 510(k) clearance or pre-market approvals that have already been granted; and  
•  Criminal prosecution.  

If any of these events were to occur, it could harm our business.  

If  we  fail  to  comply  with  the  FDA’s  Quality  System  Regulation  and  laser  performance  standards,  our 
manufacturing operations could be halted, and our business would suffer.  

We  are  currently  required  to  demonstrate  and  maintain  compliance  with  the  FDA’s  Quality  System  Regulation,  or 
QSR.  The  QSR  is  a  complex  regulatory  scheme  that  covers  the  methods  and  documentation  of  the  design,  testing, 
control,  manufacturing,  labeling,  quality  assurance,  packaging,  storage  and  shipping  of  our  products.  Because  our 
products involve the use of lasers, our products also are covered by a performance standard for lasers set forth in FDA 
regulations.  The  laser  performance  standard  imposes  specific  record-keeping,  reporting,  product  testing  and  product 
labeling requirements. These requirements include affixing warning labels to laser products, as well as incorporating 
certain  safety  features  in  the  design  of  laser  products.  The  FDA  enforces  the  QSR  and  laser  performance  standards 
through periodic unannounced inspections. We had a full quality system audit in 2008 and an FDA audit of compliance 
with  laser  performance  standards  in  2010.  There  were  no  significant  findings  as  a  result  of  these  audits  and  our 
responses have been accepted by the FDA. Our failure to take satisfactory corrective action in response to an adverse 
QSR  inspection  or  our  failure  to  comply  with  applicable  laser  performance  standards  could  result  in  enforcement 
actions, including a public warning letter, a shutdown of our manufacturing operations, a recall of our products, civil or 
criminal penalties, or other sanctions, such as those described in the preceding paragraph, which would cause our sales 
and business to suffer.  

If  we  modify  one  of  our  FDA-approved  devices,  we  may  need  to  seek  re-approval,  which,  if  not  granted,  would 
prevent us from selling our modified products or cause us to redesign our products.  

Any  modifications  to  an  FDA-cleared  device  that would significantly  affect  its  safety or  effectiveness  or  that would 
constitute a major change in its intended use would require a new 510(k) clearance or possibly a pre-market approval. 
We  may  not  be  able  to  obtain  additional  510(k)  clearance  or  pre-market  approvals  for  new  products  or  for 
modifications to, or additional indications for, our existing products in a timely fashion, or at all. Delays in obtaining 
future clearance would adversely affect our ability to introduce new or enhanced products in a timely manner, which in 
turn would harm our revenue and future profitability.  

We have made modifications to our devices in the past and may make additional modifications in the future that we 
believe do not or will not require additional clearance or approvals. If the FDA disagrees, and requires new clearances 
or  approvals  for  the  modifications, we  may  be  required  to  recall  and  to  stop  marketing  the  modified  devices, which 
could harm our operating results and require us to redesign our products. 

23 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We  may  be  unable  to  obtain  or  maintain  international  regulatory  qualifications  or  approvals  for  our  current  or 
future products and indications, which could harm our business.  

Sales of our products outside the United States are subject to foreign regulatory requirements that  vary widely from 
country  to  country.  In  addition,  exports  of  medical  devices  from  the  United  States  are  regulated  by  the  FDA. 
Complying with international regulatory requirements can be an expensive and time-consuming process and approval 
is not certain. The time required for obtaining clearance or approvals, if required by other countries, may be longer than 
that  required  for  FDA  clearance  or  approvals,  and  requirements  for  such  clearances  or  approvals  may  significantly 
differ  from  FDA  requirements.  We  may  be  unable  to  obtain  or  maintain  regulatory  qualifications,  clearances  or 
approvals  in other  countries. We  may  also  incur  significant  costs  in  attempting  to obtain  and  in  maintaining foreign 
regulatory  approvals  or  qualifications.  If  we  experience  delays  in  receiving  necessary  qualifications,  clearances  or 
approvals to market our products outside the United States, or if we fail to receive those qualifications, clearances or 
approvals,  we  may  be  unable  to  market  our  products  or  enhancements  in  international  markets  effectively,  or  at  all, 
which could have a material adverse effect on our business and growth strategy.  

Product liability suits could be brought against us due to a defective design, material or workmanship or misuse of 
our products and could result in expensive and time-consuming litigation, payment of substantial damages and an 
increase in our insurance rates.  

If our  products  are  defectively  designed,  manufactured or  labeled,  contain  defective  components or  are  misused,  we 
may  become  subject  to  substantial  and  costly  litigation  by  our  customers  or  their patients.  Misusing our products  or 
failing to adhere to operating guidelines could cause significant eye and skin damage, and underlying tissue damage. In 
addition, if our operating guidelines are found to be inadequate, we may be subject to liability. We have been involved, 
and may in the future be involved, in litigation related to the use of our products. Product liability claims could divert 
management’s attention from our core business, be expensive to defend and result in sizable damage awards against us. 
We  may  not  have  sufficient  insurance  coverage  for  all  future  claims.  We  may  not  be  able  to  obtain  insurance  in 
amounts or scope sufficient to provide us with adequate coverage against all potential liabilities. Any product liability 
claims brought against us, with or without merit, could increase our product liability insurance rates or prevent us from 
securing continuing coverage, could harm our reputation in the industry and could reduce product sales. In addition, we 
historically experienced steep increases in our product liability insurance premiums as a percentage of revenue. If our 
premiums continue to rise, we may no longer be able to afford adequate insurance coverage.  

If customers are not trained and / or our products are used by non-physicians, it could result in product misuse and 
adverse  treatment  outcomes,  which  could  harm  our  reputation,  result  in  product  liability  litigation,  distract 
management, result in additional costs, all of which could harm our business.  

Because we do not require training for users of our products, and sell our products at times to non-physicians, there 
exists an increased potential for misuse of our products, which could harm our reputation and our business. U.S. federal 
regulations  allow  us  to  sell  our  products  to  or  on  the  order  of  “licensed  practitioners.”  The  definition  of  “licensed 
practitioners”  varies  from  state  to  state.  As  a  result,  our  products  may  be  purchased  or  operated  by  physicians  with 
varying  levels  of  training,  and  in  many  states,  by  non-physicians,  including  nurse  practitioners,  chiropractors  and 
technicians.  Outside  the  United  States,  many  jurisdictions  do  not  require  specific  qualifications  or  training  for 
purchasers or operators of our products. We do not supervise the procedures performed with our products, nor do we 
require  that  direct  medical  supervision  occur.  We  and  our  distributors  generally  offer  but  do  not  require  product 
training to the purchasers or operators of our products. In addition, we sometimes sell our systems to companies that 
rent our systems to third parties and that provide a technician to perform the procedures. The lack of training and the 
purchase  and  use  of  our  products  by  non-physicians  may  result  in  product  misuse  and  adverse  treatment  outcomes, 
which could harm our reputation and our business, and, in the event these result in product liability litigation, distract 
management and subject us to liability, including legal expenses.  

24 

 
 
 
 
 
 
We have recently entered into strategic alliances to distribute third party products internationally. To successfully 
market and sell these products, we must address many issues that are unique to these businesses and could reduce 
our available cash reserves and negatively impacting our profitability.  

Recently, we have entered into distribution arrangements pursuant to which we utilize our sales force and distributors 
to sell products manufactured by other companies. We entered into an agreement with Obagi to distribute certain of 
their  proprietary  cosmeceuticals,  or  skin  care  products,  in  Japan.  This  agreement  requires  us  to  purchase  an  annual 
minimum  dollar  amount  of  their  product.  During  2010  the  initial  year  of  the  agreement,  the  minimum  purchase 
requirement was $1.25 million. The minimum purchase requirement for 2011 and beyond has yet to be finalized but is 
expected  to  be  consistent  with  2010.  If  we  do  not  make  these  minimum  purchases,  we  could  lose  exclusivity  for 
distributing Obagi products to physicians in Japan. In addition, in December 2009, we entered into an agreement with 
Sound Surgical Technologies, Inc. to distribute their VASER® Lipo System in certain European countries and Canada. 
However,  in  September  2010,  we  decided  to  discontinue  distributing  the  VASER  product.  Finally,  we  also  have  an 
agreement  with  BioForm  Medical  Inc.  (acquired  by  Merz  Pharma  Group  in  January  2009),  to  distribute  their 
Radiesse®  dermal  filler  product  in  Japan.  Each  of  these  distribution  agreements  presents  its  own  unique  risks  and 
challenges. For example, to sell products in partnership with Obagi we need to invest in creating a sales structure that is 
experienced in the sale of cosmeceuticals and not in capital equipment. We need to commit resources to training this 
sales  force,  obtaining  regulatory  licenses  in  Japan  and  developing  new  marketing  materials  to  promote  the  sale  of 
Obagi products. For each of these distribution arrangements, until we can develop our own experienced sales force, we 
may need to pay third party distributors to sell the products which will result in higher fees and lower margins than if 
we  sell  direct  to  customers.  In  addition,  the  minimum  commitments  and  other  costs  of  distributing  products 
manufactured by these companies may exceed the incremental revenue that we derive from the sale of their products 
thereby reducing our available cash reserves and negatively impacting our profitability.  

To successfully market and sell our products internationally, we must address many issues that are unique to our 
international business.  

Our international revenue was $33.9 million or 64% of our total revenue in 2010. International revenue is a material 
component of our business strategy. We depend on third-party distributors and a direct sales force to sell our products 
internationally, and if they underperform, we may be unable to increase or maintain our level of international revenue. 
To grow our business, we will need to improve productivity in current sales territories and expand into new territories. 
However,  direct  sales  productivity  may  not  improve  and  distributors  may  not  accept  our  business  or  commit  the 
necessary resources to market and sell our products to the level of our expectations. As a result, we may not be able to 
increase or maintain international revenue growth.  

We  believe,  as  we  continue  to  manage  our  international  operations  and  develop  opportunities  in  additional 
international territories, our international revenue will be subject to a number of risks, including:  

•  Difficulties in staffing and managing our foreign operations;  
•  Export restrictions, trade regulations and foreign tax laws;  
•  Fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates;  
•  Foreign certification and regulatory requirements;  
•  Lengthy payment cycles and difficulty in collecting accounts receivable;  
•  Customs clearance and shipping delays;  
•  Political and economic instability;  
•  Lack of awareness of our brand in international markets;  
•  Preference for locally-produced products; and  
•  Reduced protection for intellectual property rights in some countries.  

If one or more of these risks were realized, it could require us to dedicate significant resources to remedy the situation; 
and if we were unsuccessful at finding a solution, we may not be able to sell our products in a particular market and, as 
a result, our revenue may decline.  

25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If PSS World Medical fails to perform to our expectations, we may fail to achieve anticipated operating results.  

We  have  a  distribution  agreement  with  PSS  World  Medical.  PSS  sales  professionals  work  in  coordination  with  our 
sales force to locate new customers for our products throughout the United States. Revenue from PSS has significantly 
declined since 2008. Our revenue from PSS, as a percentage of worldwide revenue, was 5% in 2010, 7% in 2009 and 
14% in 2008. Although we continue to work closely with, and focus our attention on, our PSS relationship, there is no 
assurance that this will translate into increased revenue for us. Further, if revenue from PSS does not improve, or if 
they terminate our relationship, it may have a significant adverse effect on our revenue, financial condition and results 
of operations.  

Adverse  conditions  in  the  global  banking  industry  and  credit  markets  may  adversely  impact  the  value  of  our 
marketable investments or impair our liquidity.  

We  invest  our  excess  cash  primarily  in  money  market  funds  and  in  highly  liquid  debt  instruments  of  the  U.S. 
government and its agencies, and U.S. municipalities. As of December 31, 2010, our balance in marketable investment 
was $77.5 million. The longer the duration of a security, the more susceptible it is to changes in market interest rates 
and bond yields. As yields increase, those securities with a lower yield-at-cost show a mark-to-market unrealized loss. 
For  example,  assuming  a  hypothetical  increase  in  interest  rates  of  one  percentage  point,  the  fair  value  of  our  total 
investment portfolio as of December 31, 2010 would have potentially decreased by approximately $651,000, resulting 
in an unrealized loss that would subsequently adversely impact our earnings. As a result, changes in the market interest 
rates will affect our future net income (loss).  

We may be required to record impairment charges in future quarters as a result of the decline in value of our long-
term investments in auction rate securities (ARS).  

Included under the caption of “Long-term investments” in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2010 
are  $6.8  million  of  ARS.  These  ARS  were  designed  to  provide  liquidity  through  an  auction  process  that  resets  the 
applicable  interest  rate  at  predetermined  calendar  intervals,  generally  every  35  days.  Though  approximately  $5.1 
million (par value) of our original holdings of $13.4 million (par value) of ARS have been redeemed at full par value 
since 2008, auctions for the remaining ARS in our portfolio at December 31, 2010 continue to fail and they remain as 
illiquid. Upon an auction failure, the interest rates do not reset at a market rate but instead reset based on a formula 
contained in the prospectus of the individual security, which rate is generally higher than the prevailing market rate. 
The  failure  of  the  auctions  impacts  our  ability  to  readily  liquidate  our  ARS  into  cash  until  a  future  auction  of  these 
investments is successful, a buyer is found outside of the auction process, or the ARS is refinanced by the issuer into 
another type of debt instrument.  

If there is a decline in fair value in our ARS that is considered other-than-temporary then we would have to record an 
impairment charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the loss in value associated with the worsening of 
the  credit  worthiness  (credit  losses)  of  the  issuer,  which  would  reduce  future  earnings,  harm  our  business  and  may 
cause our stock price to decline.  

We  depend  on  skilled  and  experienced  personnel  to  operate  our  business  effectively.  If  we  are  unable  to  recruit, 
hire, train and retain these employees, our ability to manage and expand our business will be harmed, which would 
impair our future revenue and profitability. 

Our success largely depends on the skills, experience and efforts of our officers and other key employees. Except for 
Change of Control and Severance Agreements for our executive officers, we do not have employment contracts with 
any  of  our  officers  or  other  key  employees.  Any  of  our  officers  and  other  key  employees  may  terminate  their 
employment at any time. We do not have a succession plan in place for each of our officers and key employees. In 
addition, we do not maintain “key person” life insurance policies covering any of our employees. The loss of any of 
our senior management team members could weaken our management expertise and harm our business.  

26 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our ability to retain our skilled labor force and our success in attracting and hiring new skilled employees are critical 
factors in determining whether we will be successful in the future. We may not be able to meet our future hiring needs 
or retain existing personnel. We may face particularly significant challenges and risks in hiring, training, managing and 
retaining  engineering  and  sales  and  marketing  employees.  Failure  to  attract,  train  and  retain  personnel,  particularly 
technical and sales and marketing personnel, would materially harm our ability to compete effectively and grow our 
business.  

The price of our common stock may fluctuate substantially. We have a limited number of shares of common stock 
outstanding, a large portion of which is held by a small number of investors, which could result in the increase in 
volatility of our stock price.  

As of December 31, 2010, approximately 51% of our outstanding shares of common stock were held by 10 institutional 
investors.  As  a  result  of  our  relatively  small  public  float,  our  common  stock  may  be  less  liquid  than  the  stock  of 
companies with broader public ownership. Among other things, trading of a relatively small volume of our common 
stock  may  have  a  greater  impact  on  the  trading  price  for our  shares  than  would  be  the  case  if  our  public  float  were 
larger.  

The  public  market  price  of  our  common  stock  has  in  the  past  fluctuated  substantially  and,  due  to  the  current 
concentration of stockholders, it may continue to do so in the future. The market price for our common stock could also 
be affected by a number of other factors, including:  

•  The general market conditions unrelated to our operating performance;  
•  Sales of large blocks of our common stock, including sales by our executive officers, directors and our 

large institutional investors;  

•  Quarterly variations in our, or our competitors’, results of operations;  
•  Changes  in  analysts’  estimates,  investors’  perceptions,  recommendations  by  securities  analysts  or  our 

failure to achieve analysts’ estimates;  

•  The announcement of new products or service enhancements by us or our competitors;  
•  The announcement of the departure of a key employee or executive officer by us or our competitor;  
•  Regulatory developments or delays concerning our, or our competitors’ products; and  
•  The initiation of litigation by us or against us.  

Actual  or  perceived  instability  in  our  stock  price  could  reduce  demand  from  potential  buyers  of  our  stock,  thereby 
causing our stock price to either remain depressed or to decline further.  

We  may  be  involved  in  future  costly  intellectual  property  litigation,  which  could  impact  our  future  business  and 
financial performance.  

Our competitors or other patent holders may assert that our present or future products and the methods we employ are 
covered by their patents. In addition, we do not know whether our competitors own or will obtain patents that they may 
claim prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use, sell or import our products. Although we may seek to 
resolve any potential future claims or actions, we may not be able to do so on reasonable terms, or at all. If, following a 
successful  third-party  action  for  infringement,  we  cannot  obtain  a  license  or  redesign  our  products,  we  may  have  to 
stop manufacturing and selling the applicable products and our business would suffer as a result. In addition, a court 
could require us to pay substantial damages, and prohibit us from using technologies essential to our products, any of 
which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.  

We  may  become  involved  in  litigation  not  only  as  a  result  of  alleged  infringement  of  a  third  party’s  intellectual 
property  rights  but  also  to  protect  our  own  intellectual  property.  For  example,  we  have  been,  and  may  hereafter 
become, involved in litigation to protect the trademark rights associated with our company name or the names of our 
products.  Infringement  and  other  intellectual  property  claims,  with  or  without  merit,  can  be  expensive  and  time-
consuming to litigate, and could divert management’s attention from our core business.  

27 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Any acquisitions that we make could disrupt our business and harm our financial condition.  

From time to time we evaluate potential strategic acquisitions of complementary businesses, products or technologies. 
We  may  also  consider  joint  ventures  and  other  collaborative  projects.  We  may  not  be  able  to  identify  appropriate 
acquisition candidates or strategic partners, or successfully negotiate, finance or integrate any businesses, products or 
technologies  that  we  acquire.  Furthermore,  the  integration  of  any  acquisition  and  management  of  any  collaborative 
project may divert management’s time and resources from our core business and disrupt our operations and we may 
incur significant legal, accounting and banking fees in connection with such a transaction. In addition, if we purchase a 
company  that  is  not  profitable,  our  cash  balances  may  be  reduced  or  depleted.  We  do  not  have  any  experience  as  a 
team with acquiring companies or products. If we decide to expand our product offerings beyond laser and light-based 
products, we may spend time and money on projects that do not increase our revenue. Any cash acquisition we pursue 
would  diminish  our  available  cash  balances  to  us  for  other  uses,  and  any  stock  acquisition  could  be  dilutive  to  our 
stockholders.  

While  we  from  time  to  time  evaluate  potential  acquisitions  of  businesses,  products  and  technologies,  and  anticipate 
continuing to make these evaluations, we have no present understandings, commitments or agreements with respect to 
any material acquisitions or collaborative projects.  

Our manufacturing operations are dependent upon third-party suppliers, making us vulnerable to supply shortages 
and price fluctuations, which could harm our business.  

Many of the components and materials that comprise our products are currently manufactured by a limited number of 
suppliers.  A  supply  interruption  or  an  increase  in  demand  beyond  our  current  suppliers’  capabilities  could  harm  our 
ability  to  manufacture  our  products  until  a  new  source  of  supply  is  identified  and  qualified.  Our  reliance  on  these 
suppliers subjects us to a number of risks that could harm our business, including:  

• 
Interruption of supply resulting from modifications to or discontinuation of a supplier’s operations;  
•  Delays in product shipments resulting from uncorrected defects, reliability issues or a supplier’s variation 

in a component;  

•  A lack of long term supply arrangements for key components with our suppliers;  
• 
Inability to obtain adequate supply in a timely manner, or on reasonable terms;  
•  Difficulty locating and qualifying alternative suppliers for our components in a timely manner;  
•  Production  delays  related  to  the  evaluation  and  testing  of  products  from  alternative  suppliers  and 

corresponding regulatory qualifications; and  

•  Delay in supplier deliveries.  

Any interruption in the supply of components or materials, or our inability to obtain substitute components or materials 
from  alternate  sources  at  acceptable  prices  in  a  timely  manner,  could  impair  our  ability  to  meet  the  demand  of  our 
customers, which would have an adverse effect on our business.  

Intellectual property rights may not provide adequate protection for some or all of our products, which may permit 
third parties to compete against us more effectively.  

We rely on patent, copyright, trade secret and trademark laws and confidentiality agreements to protect our technology 
and  products.  At  December  31,  2010,  we  had  17  issued  U.S.  patents.  Some  of  our  components,  such  as  our  laser 
module,  electronic  control  system  and  high-voltage  electronics,  are  not,  and  in  the  future  may  not  be,  protected  by 
patents. Additionally, our patent applications may not issue as patents or, if issued, may not issue in a form that will be 
advantageous  to  us.  Any  patents  we  obtain  may  be  challenged,  invalidated  or  legally  circumvented  by  third  parties. 
Consequently, competitors could market products and use manufacturing processes that are substantially similar to, or 
superior to, ours. We may not be able to prevent the unauthorized disclosure or use of our technical knowledge or other 
trade  secrets  by  consultants,  vendors,  former  employees  or  current  employees,  despite  the  existence  generally  of 
confidentiality  agreements  and  other  contractual  restrictions.  Monitoring  unauthorized  uses  and  disclosures  of  our 
intellectual  property  is  difficult,  and  we  do  not  know  whether  the  steps  we  have  taken  to  protect  our  intellectual 
property will be effective. Moreover, the laws of many foreign countries will not protect our intellectual property rights 
to the same extent as the laws of the United States.  

28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The absence of complete intellectual property protection exposes us to a greater risk of direct competition. Competitors 
could purchase one of our products and attempt to replicate some or all of the competitive advantages we derive from 
our development efforts, design around our protected technology, or develop their own competitive technologies that 
fall  outside  of  our  intellectual  property  rights.  If  our  intellectual  property  is  not  adequately  protected  against 
competitors’ products and methods, our competitive position and our business could be adversely affected.  

Healthcare reform legislation could adversely affect our future profitability and financial condition.  

The  President  and  members  of  Congress  passed  legislation  relating  to  healthcare  reform.  Our  products  are  not 
reimbursed  by  insurance  companies  or  federal  or  state  governments  and  some  of  this  legislation  will,  therefore,  not 
affect  us.  This  legislation,  however,  does  include  several  aspects  that  will  apply  to  us,  including  a  tax  on  our  U.S. 
revenue  which  is  applicable  to  us  beginning  in  2013.  While  we  are  presently  evaluating  the  full  scope  of  how  this 
legislation will impact our operations, including how to administer this tax, we believe this will adversely affect our 
future profitability and financial condition.  

We  offer  credit  terms  to  some  qualified  customers  and  also  to  leasing  companies  to  finance  the  purchase  of  our 
products.  In  the  event  that  any  of  these  customers  default  on  the  amounts  payable  to  us,  our  earnings  may  be 
adversely affected.  

While  we  qualify  customers  to  whom  we  offer  credit  terms  (generally  net  30  to  60  days),  we  cannot  provide  any 
assurance  that  the  financial  position  of  these  customers  will  not  change  adversely  before  we  receive  payment.  Our 
general and administrative expenses and earnings are negatively impacted by customer defaults and cause an increase 
in the allowance for doubtful accounts. In the event that there is a default by any customers to whom we have provided 
credit  terms  in  the  future,  we  may  recognize  a  bad  debt  charge  in  our  general  and  administrative  expenses  and  this 
could negatively affect our earnings and results of operations.  

We are subject to fluctuations in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies.  

As a result of recent fluctuations in currency markets and the strong dollar relative to many other major currencies, our 
products priced  in  U.S. dollars  may  be  more  expensive  relative  to  products  of  our  foreign  competitors,  which  could 
result  in  lower  revenue.  We  do  not  actively  hedge  our  exposure  to  currency  rate  fluctuations.  While  we  transact 
business  primarily  in  U.S.  Dollars,  and  a  significant  proportion  of  our  revenue  is  denominated  in  U.S.  Dollars,  a 
portion of our costs and revenue is denominated in other currencies, such as the Euro, Japanese Yen, Australian Dollar, 
Canadian Dollar and British Pound Sterling. As a result, changes in the exchange rates of these currencies to the U.S. 
Dollar will affect our net income (loss).  

The expense and potential unavailability of insurance coverage for our customers could adversely affect our ability 
to sell our products, and therefore our financial condition.  

Some of our customers and prospective customers have had difficulty in procuring or maintaining liability insurance to 
cover their operation and use of our products. Medical malpractice carriers are withdrawing coverage in certain states 
or  substantially  increasing  premiums.  If  this  trend  continues  or  worsens,  our  customers  may  discontinue  using  our 
products and potential customers may opt against purchasing laser and light based products due to the cost or inability 
to  procure  insurance  coverage.  The  unavailability  of  insurance  coverage  for  our  customers  and  prospects  could 
adversely affect our ability to sell our products, and that could harm our financial condition.  

Anti-takeover provisions in our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws, and Delaware law, 
contain provisions that could discourage a takeover.  

Our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws, and Delaware law, contain provisions that might 
enable our management to resist a takeover, and might make it more difficult for an investor to acquire a substantial 
block of our common stock. These provisions include:  

•  A classified board of directors;  
•  Advance notice requirements to stockholders for matters to be brought at stockholder meetings;  
•  A  supermajority  stockholder  vote  requirement  for  amending  certain  provisions  of  our  Amended  and 

Restated Certificate of Incorporation and bylaws;  

29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
•  Limitations on stockholder actions by written consent; and  
•  The right to issue preferred stock without stockholder approval, which could be used to dilute the stock 

ownership of a potential hostile acquirer.  

These  provisions,  as  well  as  Change  of  Control  and  Severance  Agreements  entered  into  with  each  of  our  executive 
officers, might discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of our company or a change in our management. The 
existence of these provisions could adversely affect the voting power of holders of common stock and limit the price 
that investors might be willing to pay in the future for shares of our common stock.  

ITEM 1B. 

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS 

Not applicable.  

ITEM 2. 

PROPERTIES  

Our corporate headquarters and U.S. operations are located in an approximately 66,000 square foot facility in Brisbane, 
California. We lease these premises under a non-cancelable operating lease which expires on December 31, 2017. In 
addition, we have leased office facilities in certain international countries as follows:  

Country 
Japan 

Square Footage 

Lease termination or Expiration

  Approximately 5,790 

  Three  leases  of  which  two  expire  in  May  2012  and  one  expires  in 
July 2013, but may be cancelled at any time with a six-month notice.

Switzerland    Approximately 3,174 
France 

  Approximately 450 

  One lease which expires in March 2013. 
  Lease expires in November 2011, but may be cancelled at any time 

Spain 

  Approximately 175 

  Lease automatically renews at the end of each six-month period. 

with a three-month notice. 

We believe that these facilities are adequate for our current and future needs for at least the next twelve months.  

ITEM 3. 

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS  

A Telephone Consumer Protection Act, or TCPA, class action lawsuit was filed against us in January 2008 and settled 
in 2009 on a class-wide basis. We paid a total of $950,000 in exchange for a full release of all claims and recorded a 
net  charge of $850,000  in our 2009  Consolidated  Statements  of  Operations for  the  cost  of  the settlement,  net  of  the 
administrative expenses and contributions from our insurance carrier. All monies were distributed in conjunction with 
this settlement, a final accounting hearing was presented to the Court on February 3, 2011, and the case closed.  

Two  securities  class  action  lawsuits  were  filed  against  us  and  two  of  our  executive  officers  in  2007.  The  plaintiffs 
claimed  to  represent  purchasers  of  our  common  stock  from  January  31,  2007  through  May  7,  2007  and  generally 
alleged that materially false statements and omissions were made regarding our financial prospects. In 2008, the Court 
issued an order dismissing the plaintiffs’ consolidated, amended complaint without prejudice and closed the case on its 
own  initiative.  On  November  26,  2008,  the  plaintiffs  filed  a  Notice  of  Appeal  to  the  U.S.  Court  of  Appeals  for  the 
Ninth  Circuit.  In  2009,  the  parties  filed  their  written  briefs  with  that  Court.  In  2010,  both  parties  presented  oral 
arguments and the Court affirmed the District Court’s order dismissing the complaint.  

ITEM 4. 

[RESERVED] 

30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART II 

ITEM 5. 

MARKET  FOR  THE  REGISTRANT’S  COMMON  EQUITY,  RELATED  STOCKHOLDER 
MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 

Stock Exchange Listing 

Our  common  stock  trades  on  The  NASDAQ  Global  Select  Market  under  the  symbol  “CUTR.”  As  of  February  28, 
2011, the closing sale price of our common stock was $9.66 per share. 

Common Stockholders 

We had 11 stockholders of record as of February 28, 2011. Since many stockholders choose to hold their shares under 
the name of their brokerage firm, we believe, the actual number of stockholders was in excess of 2600. 

Stock Prices 

The following table sets forth quarterly high and low closing sales prices of our common stock for the indicated fiscal 
periods: 

4th Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
3rd Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2nd Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
1st Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

$

$

8.39 
9.00 
12.04 
11.03 

$

7.01 
6.99 
8.62 
8.25 

$

9.63 
9.40 
9.03 
8.71 

7.97 
7.85 
5.93 
5.57 

Common Stock 

2010 

2009 

High

Low

High 

Low

31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Graph 

Below is a graph showing the cumulative total return to our stockholders during the period from December 31, 2005 
through December 31, 2010 in comparison to the cumulative return on the NASDAQ Composite Index (U.S.) and the 
NASDAQ  Medical  Equipment  Index  during  that  same  period.  (1)  The  results  assume  that  $100  was  invested  on 
December 31, 2005. 

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN* 
Among Cutera, Inc., the NASDAQ Composite Index 
and the NASDAQ Medical Equipment Index 

*$100 invested on 12/31/05 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends.  
Fiscal year ending December 31. 

The information under “Performance Graph” is not deemed filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is 
not  to  be  incorporated  by  reference  in  any  filing  of  Cutera  under  the  Securities  Act  of  1933,  as  amended,  or  the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether made before or after the date of this 10-K and irrespective of 
any general incorporation language in those filings. 

Dividend Policy 

We have never paid a cash dividend and have no present intention to pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future. We 
intend to retain any future earnings for use in our business. 

We did not sell any unregistered securities during the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

The  information  required  by  this  Item  regarding  equity  compensation  plans  is  incorporated  by  reference  to  the 
information set forth in Part III Item 12 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans 

See Part III, Item 12 for information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans. 

32 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 6. 

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 

The table set forth below contains certain consolidated financial data for each of our last five fiscal years. This data 
should  be  read  in  conjunction  with  the  detailed  information,  financial  statements  and  related  notes,  as  well  as 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included elsewhere herein. 

Year Ended December 31, 

32,890 
6,473 
15,192 
18,935 
73,490 
(2,657)
3,596 

— 
939 
(1,184)
2,123 

Consolidated Statements of Operations Data (in thousands, 
except per share data): 
Net revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $
Cost of revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Operating expenses: 

Sales and marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Litigation settlement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Income (loss) from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Interest and other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Other-than-temporary impairments of long-term 

2010
53,274  $
23,058 
30,216 

2009
53,682  $
21,759 
31,923 

2007 

2008
83,379  $ 101,726   $ 100,692 
29,859 
35,002  
32,358 
70,833 
66,724  
51,021 

2006

24,735 
7,004 
9,576 
— 
41,315 
(11,099) 
583 

24,286 
6,810 
10,320 
850 
42,266 
(10,343) 
1,572 

35,354 
7,550 
11,270 
— 
54,174 
(3,153)   
3,046 

38,277  
7,169  
11,721  
—  
57,167  
9,557  
4,207  

investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Income (loss) before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Provision (benefit) for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $ (10,518)  $ (17,679)  $
Net income (loss) available to common 

— 
(10,516) 
2 

— 
(8,771) 
8,908 

(3,554)   
(3,661)   
(792)   
(2,869)  $

—  
13,764  
3,260  
10,504   $

stockholders used in basic net income per 
share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $ (10,518)  $ (17,679)  $

(2,869)  $

10,504   $

2,123 

Net income (loss) per share: 

Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $

Weighted-average number of shares used in per 

share calculations: 

Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

(0.78)  $
(0.78)  $

(1.33)  $
(1.33)  $

(0.22)  $
(0.22)  $

0.80   $
0.74   $

0.17 
0.15 

13,540 
13,540 

13,279 
13,279 

12,770 
12,770 

13,153  
14,228  

12,558 
14,278 

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data (in thousands): 
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $
Marketable investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Working capital (current assets less current 

liabilities) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

2010
12,519  $
77,484 
6,784 

As of December 31, 
2008
36,540  $
60,653 
9,627 

2009
22,829  $
76,780 
7,275 

2007 
11,054   $
88,510  
7,429  

2006
11,800 
96,285 
— 

90,339 
111,805 
6,736 
95,417 

96,015 
121,352 
17,254 
100,853 

101,644 
137,476 
31,410 
112,108 

  106,894  
  138,653  
34,279  
  109,353  

111,999 
133,875 
23,866 
109,732 

33 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 7. 

MANAGEMENT’S  DISCUSSION  AND  ANALYSIS  OF  FINANCIAL  CONDITION  AND 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our audited financial statements and notes thereto for the 
fiscal year ended December 31, 2010. This Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the following sections, contains 
forward-looking  statements  within  the  meaning  of  the  Private  Securities  Litigation  Reform  Act  of  1995.  Throughout 
this Report, and particularly in this Item 7, the forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations, 
estimates and projections and that reflect our beliefs and assumptions based upon information available to us at the 
date  of  this  Report.  In  some  cases,  you  can  identify  these  statements  by  words  such  as  “may,”  “might,”  “will,” 
“should,”  “expects,”  “plans,”  “anticipates,”  “believes,”  “estimates,”  “predicts,”  “potential”  or  “continue,”  and 
other  similar  terms.  These  forward-looking  statements  are  not  guarantees  of  future  performance  and  are  subject  to 
risks,  uncertainties,  and  assumptions  that  are  difficult  to  predict.  Our  actual  results,  performance  or  achievements 
could  differ  materially  from  those  expressed  or  implied  by  the  forward-looking  statements.  The  forward-looking 
statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to our future financial performance, the ability to grow 
our  business,  increase  our  revenue,  manage  expenses,  generate  additional  cash,  achieve  and  maintain  profitability, 
develop  and  commercialize  existing  and  new  products  and  applications,  improve  the  performance  of  our  worldwide 
sales and distribution network, and to the outlook regarding long term prospects. We caution you not to place undue 
reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s analysis only as of the date of this Annual 
Report  on  Form 10-K.  We  undertake  no  obligation  to  update  forward-looking  statements  to  reflect  events  or 
circumstances occurring after the date of this Form 10-K. 

Some  of  the  important  factors  that  could  cause  our  results  to  differ  materially  from  those  in  our  forward-looking 
statements, and a discussion of other risks and uncertainties, are discussed in Item 1A—Risk Factors commencing on 
page 13. We encourage you to read that section carefully as well as other risks detailed from time to time in our filings 
with the SEC. 

Introduction 

The Management’s Discussion and Analysis, or MD&A, is organized as follows: 

•  Executive  Summary.  This  section  provides  a  general  description  and  history  of  our  business,  a  brief 
discussion  of  our  product  lines  and  the  opportunities,  trends,  challenges  and  risks  we  focus  on  in  the 
operation of our business. 

•  Critical  Accounting  Policies  and  Estimates.  This  section  describes  the  key  accounting  policies  that  are 

affected by critical accounting estimates. 

•  Recent  Accounting  Guidance.  This  section  describes  the  issuance  and  effect  of  new  accounting 

pronouncements that are and may be applicable to us. 

•  Results of Operations. This section provides our analysis and outlook for the significant line items on our 

Consolidated Statements of Operations. 

•  Liquidity  and  Capital  Resources.  This  section  provides  an  analysis  of  our  liquidity  and  cash  flows,  as 

well as a discussion of our commitments that existed as of December 31, 2010. 

Executive Summary 

Company Description. We are a global medical device company specializing in the design, development, manufacture, 
marketing and servicing of laser and light-based aesthetics systems for practitioners worldwide. We offer easy-to-use 
products  based  on  five  platforms  —  CoolGlide®,  Xeo®,  Solera®, GenesisPlusTM  and  Excel  VTM  —  each  of  which 
enables  physicians  and  other  qualified  practitioners  to  perform  safe  and  effective  aesthetic  procedures  for  their 
customers. 

Our  corporate  headquarters  and  U.S.  operations  are  located  in  Brisbane,  California,  from  where  we  conduct  our 
manufacturing,  warehousing,  research  and  development,  regulatory,  sales  and  marketing,  service,  and  administrative 
activities. In the United States, we market, sell and service our products through direct sales and service employees, 
and a distribution relationship with PSS World Medical Shared Services, Inc. (“PSS”), a wholly owned subsidiary of 
PSS World Medical which has over 700 sales representatives serving physician offices throughout the United States. 
We also sell certain items such as our Titan hand piece refills and marketing brochures online over the internet. 

34 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
International sales are generally made through direct sales employees and a worldwide distributor network in over 35 
countries.  Outside  of  the  United  States,  we  have  a  direct  sales  presence  in  Australia,  Canada,  France,  Japan,  Spain, 
Switzerland and the United Kingdom. 

Products. Our revenue is derived from the sale of Products, Upgrades, Service, Titan hand piece refills, and Dermal 
fillers and cosmeceutical products. Product revenue represents the sale of a system. A system consists of a console that 
incorporates  a  universal  graphic  user  interface,  a  laser  and/or  light-based  module,  control  system  software  and  high 
voltage electronics; as well as one or more hand pieces. However, depending on the application, the laser or light-based 
module is sometimes contained in the hand piece such as with our Pearl and Pearl Fractional applications instead of 
within the console. 

We offer our customers the ability to select the system that best fits their practice at the time of purchase and then to 
cost-effectively  add  applications  to  their  system  as  their  practice  grows.  This  provides  customers  the  flexibility  to 
upgrade  their systems  whenever  they want and  provides us  with  a  source  of  recurring revenue which  we  classify  as 
Upgrade revenue. Service revenue relates to amortization of pre-paid service contract revenue and receipts for time and 
materials services on out-of-warranty products. Titan hand piece refill revenue is associated with our Titan hand piece 
which requires replacement of the optical source after a set number of pulses have been used. In Japan, we distribute 
BioForm, Inc.’s (BioForm) Radiesse® dermal filler product and Obagi’s cosmeceutical products. 

Significant Business Trends. We believe that our ability to grow revenue has been, and will continue to be, primarily 
dependent on the following: 

•  Continuing to expand our product offerings. 
•  Ongoing investment in our global sales and marketing infrastructure. 
•  Use of clinical results to support new aesthetic products and applications. 
•  Enhanced luminary development and reference selling efforts (to develop a location where our products 

can be displayed and used to assist in selling efforts). 

•  Customer demand for our products. 
•  Consumer demand for our products. 
•  Marketing to physicians in the core dermatology and plastic surgeon specialties, as well as outside those 

specialties. 

•  Generating  ongoing revenue  from  our  growing  installed base  of  customers  through  the  sale  of  Service, 

Upgrade, Titan hand piece refill, and Dermal fillers and cosmeceutical products. 

Our  U.S.  revenue  decreased  by  8%  and  our  international  revenue  increased  by  4%  in  2010,  compared  to  2009. 
International revenue as a percent of total revenue was 64% in 2010 and 61% in 2009. We believe the decline in U.S. 
revenues was attributable to several factors, including: 

•  Our  Products  and  Upgrades  ASPs  in  2010  were  lower  than  2009  as  a  result  of  customers  purchasing 
fewer applications for systems and lower pricing resulting from competitive discounting pressures. 
•  We  experienced  a  temporary  decline  in  our  Titan  refill  revenue  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  due  to  a 
voluntary recall of certain Titan XL hand pieces. All customers that had a Titan XL hand piece subject to 
the recall, were provided with fully refilled hand pieces, which delayed their purchase of a refill. 

Our total international revenue increased by 4%, with growth being sourced from most of the international locations 
that we sell in. In Japan, our revenue increased by 41% in 2010, compared to 2009, as a result of growth from all of our 
product categories and the recently added Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals business. With respect to Australia, our 
revenue declined in 2010 by approximately 65% due to 2009 being an unusually high revenue year in which a special 
tax incentive was offered by the government to incentivize customers to purchase capital equipment. 

Our  service  revenue  remained  relatively  unchanged  in  2010,  compared  to  2009.  Service  contract  amortization  is  a 
primary component of total service revenue. Our installed base of customers continued to increase in 2010 albeit at a 
slower pace with a bias toward international. Our deferred service revenue balance decreased by $1.4 million, or 17%, 
to $6.8 million as of December 31, 2010, compared to December 31, 2009. We believe the decline was attributable to: 

• 

In  years  prior  to  2009,  we  had  discounted  pricing  promotions  for  incentivizing  customers  to  purchase 
multiple year service contracts, however, in 2009 and 2010 we did not have such promotions. 

35 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
•  A  decrease  in  unit  sales  volume  in  2009  (but  not  in  2010),  which  historically  included  an  element  of 

deferred revenue for service contracts beyond our standard warranty terms. 

•  Recently,  fewer  customers  have  been  purchasing  extended  service  contracts  in  response  to  improved 

product reliability and the recent tougher economic environment. 

Our gross margin in 2010 was 57%, compared with 59% in 2009 and 61% in 2008. This decline was due to several 
factors, including: 

•  The  2010  voluntary  recall  of  certain  Titan  XL  hand  pieces  whereby  eligible  customers  were  provided 

with fully refilled hand pieces; 

•  A $1.7 million, or 31%, temporary decrease in our Titan refill revenue in 2010, compared to 2009, for 

which we traditionally earn a higher gross margin than our blended total gross margin percentage; 

•  Our ASPs have declined due primarily to customers purchasing fewer applications on their platforms and 

due to competitive discounting pressures; and 

•  A higher proportion of distributor revenue that carries a lower gross margin; partially offset by 
•  Lower manufacturing expenses resulting from headcount reductions; and 
•  Reduced  warranty  and  service  expenses  as  a  result  of  improved  product  reliability  (for  products  other 

than Titan XL hand pieces). 

Our sales and marketing expenses remained relatively flat at $24.7 million in 2010, compared with $24.3 million in 
2009. As a percentage of net revenue, in 2010 sales and marketing expenses were at 47%, compared to 45% in 2009. 
This slight increase was primarily attributable to the 8% lower revenue in the U.S. in 2010, compared to 2009. 

Our  research  and  development,  or  R&D,  expenses  increased  slightly  to  $7.0  million  in  2010,  compared  with  $6.8 
million  in  2009.  This  increase  was  associated  with  higher  personnel  expenses  resulting  from  higher  headcount  in 
engineering relating to new product development programs. As a percentage of net revenue, R&D expenses remained 
flat at 13% in 2010, compared to 2009. 

Our  general  and  administrative,  or  G&A,  expenses  decreased  by  approximately  $744,000,  or  7%,  to  $9.6  million  in 
2010, compared to 2009. As a percentage of net revenue, G&A expenses decreased slightly to 18% in 2010, compared 
to 19% in 2009. This decrease was due primarily to lower bad debt expenses, lower legal fees and litigation settlement 
costs. 

In  response  to  the  economic  conditions  and  a  decline  in  revenue  during  2009,  we  reduced  our  company-wide 
workforce  by  approximately  18%  and  implemented  other  cost-reduction  measures  in  the  first  half  of  2009.  The 
headcount  reductions  impacted  all  departments  and  functions  and  resulted  in  restructuring  charges  of  approximately 
$880,000 in first half of 2009. 

In 2009, we settled our TCPA class action lawsuit and in that regard recorded a charge of $850,000 for the cost of the 
settlement, net of administrative expenses and amounts that were recovered from our insurance carrier. See “Item 3 - 
Legal Proceedings” in Part I, of this Form 10-K. 

Factors that May Impact Future Performance 

Our  industry  is  impacted  by  numerous  competitive,  regulatory  and  other  significant  factors.  Our  industry  is  highly 
competitive  and  our  future  performance  depends  on  our  ability  to  compete  successfully.  Additionally,  our  future 
performance is dependent upon our ability to continue to expand our product offerings with innovative technologies, 
obtain regulatory clearances for our products, protect the proprietary technology of our products and our manufacturing 
processes,  manufacture  our  products  cost-effectively,  and  successfully  market  and  distribute  our  products  in  a 
profitable manner. If we fail to execute on the aforementioned initiatives, our business would be adversely affected. A 
detailed discussion of these and other factors that could impact our future performance are provided in Part I, Item 1A 
“Risk Factors.” 

36 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates 

The  preparation  of  our  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  and  related  disclosures  in  conformity  with  generally 
accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP) requires us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions 
that  affect  the  reported  amounts  of  assets,  liabilities,  revenue  and  expenses.  These  estimates,  judgments  and 
assumptions are based on historical experience and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the 
circumstances. We periodically review our estimates and make adjustments when facts and circumstances dictate. To 
the  extent  that  there  are  material  differences  between  these  estimates  and  actual  results,  our  financial  condition  or 
results of operations will be affected. 

Critical accounting estimates, as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), are those that are most 
important  to  the  portrayal  of  our  financial  condition  and  results  of  operations  and  require  our  management’s  most 
difficult  and  subjective  judgments  and  estimates  of  matters  that  are  inherently  uncertain.  Our  critical  accounting 
estimates are as follows: 

Revenue Recognition 

We  recognize  revenue  from  the  sale  of  Products,  Upgrades,  Titan  hand  piece  refills,  and  Dermal  fillers  and 
cosmeceuticals when title and risk of ownership has been transferred, provided that: 

•  Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; 
•  Delivery has occurred or services have been rendered; 
•  The fee is fixed or determinable; and 
•  Collectability is reasonably assured. 

Determination of whether persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists and whether delivery has occurred or services 
have been rendered, are based on management’s judgments regarding the fixed nature of the fee charged for services 
rendered and products delivered, and the collectability of those fees. In instances where final acceptance of the product 
is specified by the customer or collectability has not been reasonably assured, revenue is deferred until all acceptance 
criteria  have  been  met.  Revenue under  service  contracts  is  recognized on  a  straight-line  basis  over  the  period of  the 
applicable service contract. Service revenue, not under a service contract, is recognized as the services are provided. 
Should changes in conditions cause management to determine these criteria are not met for certain future transactions, 
revenue recognized for any reporting period could be adversely affected. 

Fair Value Measurement of our Long Term Auction Rate Securities Investments 

We hold a variety of interest bearing auction rate securities (ARS) that represent investments in pools of student loan 
assets. At the time of acquisition, these ARS investments were intended to provide liquidity through an auction process 
that resets the applicable interest rate at predetermined calendar intervals, allowing investors to either roll over their 
holdings or gain immediate liquidity by selling such interests at par. Since February 2008, uncertainties in the credit 
markets  affected  our  ARS  investments  and  auctions  for  some  of  our  ARS  have  continued  to  fail  to  settle  on  their 
respective settlement dates while some have been redeemed in full at their respective par values. The current portfolio 
of  investments  shown  as  “Long  term  investments”  in  our  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  represents  those 
investments that are not currently liquid and we will not be able to access these funds until a future auction of these 
investments is successful, a buyer is found outside of the auction process or the issuer refinances their debt. Maturity 
dates for these ARS investments range from to 2028 to 2043. 

At December 31, 2010, total financial assets  measured and recognized at fair value were $94.8 million and of these 
assets, $6.8 million, or 7%, were ARS that were measured and recognized using significant unobservable inputs (Level 
3). During 2010, $650,000 of ARS were redeemed at their full par value, as a result we transferred from Level 3 assets 
$465,000 to cash and this resulted in a gain of $85,000 being recorded to accumulated comprehensive loss in 2010. 

37 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of December 31, 2010, we had $8.3 million par value ($6.8 million fair value) of long-term ARS investments. The 
aggregate  loss  in  value  is  included  as  an  unrealized  loss  in  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  (loss).  Given 
observable market information was not available to determine the fair values of our ARS portfolio, we valued these 
investments based on a discounted cash flow model. While our ARS valuation model was based on both Level 2 (credit 
quality and interest rates) and Level 3 inputs (pricing models), we determined that the Level 3 inputs were the most 
significant  to  the  overall  fair  value  measurement,  particularly  the  estimates  of  risk  adjusted  discount  rates.  The 
expected future cash flows of the ARS were discounted using a risk adjusted discount rate that compensated for the 
illiquidity.  Projected  future  cash  flows  over  the  economic  life  of  the  ARS  (of  approximately  7.5  –  15.0  years)  were 
modeled based on the contractual penalty rates for the security added to a tax adjusted LIBOR interest rate curve. The 
discount rates that were applied to the cash flows were based on a premium over the projected yield curve and included 
an adjustment for credit, illiquidity, and other risk factors. See Note 1 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - 
Fair Value Measurements” in Notes to Consolidated Financial Statement in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K for more 
information. 

The valuation of our investment portfolio is subject to uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Factors that may impact 
the valuation include duration of time that the ARS remain illiquid, changes to credit ratings of the securities, rates of 
default of the underlying assets, changes in the underlying collateral value, market discount rates for similar illiquid 
investments, and ongoing strength and quality of credit markets. If the auctions for our ARS investments continue to 
fail, and there is a further decline in their valuation, then we would have to: (i) record additional reductions to the fair 
value of our ARS investments; and (ii) record unrealized losses in our accumulated comprehensive income (loss) for 
the losses in value that are associated with market risk. If the decline in fair value is considered other-than-temporary 
then we would have to record an impairment charge in our Consolidated Statement of Operations for the loss in value 
associated with the worsening of the credit worthiness (credit losses) of the issuer, which would reduce future earnings 
and harm our business. 

Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary-Impairments 

We  review  for  impairments  on  a  quarterly  basis  in  order  to  determine  the  classification  of  such  as  “temporary”  or 
“other-than-temporary.” Factors that we consider to make such determination include the duration and severity of the 
impairment; the reason for the decline in value and the potential recovery period; and our intent to sell, or whether it is 
more likely than not that we will be required to sell, the investment before recovery. Beginning April 1, 2009, if an 
entity intends to sell, or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell, an impaired debt security prior to 
recovery  of  its  cost  basis,  the  security  is  other-than-temporarily  impaired  and  the  full  amount  of  the  impairment  is 
required to be recognized as a loss through earnings. Otherwise, losses on securities which are other-than-temporarily 
impaired are separated into: 

the portion of loss which represents the credit loss; or 

(i) 
(ii)  the portion which is due to other factors. 

The credit loss portion is recognized as a loss through earnings while the loss due to other factors is recognized in other 
comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes and related amortization. At December 31, 2010, we had approximately $8.3 
million  of  par  value  ARS  investments  on  which  we  had  recognized  approximately  $1.5  million  in  unrealized  other-
than-temporary  losses.  Given  we  believed  that  such  losses  were  not  credit  related,  we  have  included  them  in 
accumulated comprehensive loss. 

Prior  to  April  1,  2009,  all  declines  in  fair  value  deemed  to  be  other-than-temporary  were  reflected  in  earnings  as 
realized  losses. With  respect to  the  ARS  that  we held  as of  April 1,  2009, we determined  that  the  cumulative  effect 
adjustment  required  to  reclassify  the  non-credit  portion  of  previously  recognized  other-than-temporarily  impaired 
adjustments was $3.5 million. Therefore, we increased our accumulated earnings and decreased our accumulated other 
comprehensive income (loss) by the $3.5 million cumulative effect adjustment.  

38 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock-based Compensation Expense 

Employee stock-based compensation is estimated at the date of grant based on the employee stock award’s fair value 
using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and is recognized as expense ratably over the requisite service period in 
a manner similar to other forms of compensation paid to employees. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model requires 
the use of certain subjective assumptions. The most significant of these assumptions are our estimates of the expected 
volatility of the market price of our stock and the expected term of the award. The expected volatility is a 50%/50% 
blend  of  implied  and  historical  volatility.  We  have  determined  that  this  is  a  more  reflective  measure  of  market 
conditions  and  a  better  indicator  of  expected  volatility,  than  its  limited  historical  volatility  since  the  initial  public 
offering of our common stock. When establishing an estimate of the expected term of an award, we consider historical 
experience of similar  awards,  giving  consideration  to  the contractual  terms  of  the  awards,  vesting requirements,  and 
expectation of future employee behavior, including post-vesting terminations. As required under GAAP, we review our 
valuation  assumptions  at  each  grant  date,  and,  as  a  result,  our  valuation  assumptions  used  to  value  employee  stock-
based awards granted in future periods may change. 

As of December 31, 2010, the unrecognized compensation cost, net of expected forfeitures, was $5.5 million for stock 
options  and  stock  awards  and  $29,000  for  the  employee  stock  purchase  plan  which  will  be  recognized  using  the 
straight-line attribution method over an estimated weighted-average remaining amortization period of 2.40 years and 
0.33 years, respectively. See Note 5 “Stockholders’ Equity, Stock Plans and Stock-Based Compensation Expense,” in 
the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statement in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K for more information. 

Valuation of Inventories 

We state our inventories at the lower of cost or market, computed on a standard cost basis, which approximates actual 
cost on a first-in, first-out basis and market being determined as the lower of replacement cost or net realizable value. 
Standard costs are monitored and updated quarterly or as necessary, to reflect changes in raw material costs, labor to 
manufacture the product and overhead rates. We provide for excess and obsolete inventories when conditions indicate 
that the selling price could be less than cost due to physical deterioration, usage, obsolescence, reductions in estimated 
future demand and reductions in selling prices. Inventory provisions are measured as the difference between the cost of 
inventory and estimated market value and charged to cost of revenue to establish a lower cost basis for the inventories. 
We balance the need to maintain strategic inventory levels with the risk of obsolescence due to changing technology 
and customer demand levels. Unfavorable changes in market conditions may result in a need for additional inventory 
provisions  that  could  adversely  impact  our  gross  margins.  Conversely,  favorable  changes  in  demand  could  result  in 
higher gross margins when product that has previously been reserved is sold. 

Warranty Obligations 

We historically provided a standard one-year or two-year warranty coverage on our systems. Beginning in September 
2009, we changed our warranty policy to a one-year standard warranty on all systems. Warranty coverage provided is 
for  labor  and  parts  necessary  to  repair  the  systems  during  the  warranty  period.  We  provide  for  the  estimated  future 
costs of warranty obligations in cost of revenue when the related revenue is recognized. The accrued warranty costs 
represent our best estimate at the time of sale, and as reviewed and updated quarterly, of the total costs that we expect 
to incur in repairing or replacing product parts that fail while still under warranty. Accrued warranty costs include costs 
of  material,  technical  support  labor  and  associated  overhead.  The  amount  of  accrued  estimated  warranty  costs 
obligation for established products is primarily based on historical experience as to product failures adjusted for current 
information on repair costs. Actual warranty costs could differ from the estimated amounts. On a quarterly basis, we 
review  the  accrued  balances  of  our  warranty  obligations  and  update  based  on  historical  warranty  cost  trends.  If  we 
were required to accrue additional warranty cost in the future due to actual product failure rates, material usage, service 
delivery  costs  or  overhead  costs  differing  from  our  estimates,  revisions  to  the  estimated  warranty  liability  would  be 
required, which would negatively impact our operating results. 

39 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for Income Taxes 

We are subject to taxes on earnings in both the United States and numerous foreign jurisdictions. As a global taxpayer, 
significant  judgments  and  estimates  are  required  in  evaluating  our  uncertain  tax  positions  and  determining  our 
provision for income taxes on earnings. We perform a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax 
positions.  The  first  step  is  to  evaluate  the  tax  position  for  recognition  by  determining  if  the  weight  of  available 
evidence  indicates  that  it  is  more  likely  than not  that  the  position will  be  sustained on  audit,  including resolution of 
related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is 
more  than  50%  likely  of  being  realized  upon  settlement.  Although  we  believe  we  have  adequately  reserved  for  our 
uncertain tax positions, no assurance can be given that the final tax outcome of these matters will not be different. We 
adjust these reserves in light of changing facts and circumstances, such as the closing of a tax audit or the refinement of 
an  estimate.  To  the  extent  that  the  final  tax  outcome  of  these  matters  is  different  than  the  amounts  recorded,  such 
differences  will  impact  the  provision  for  income  taxes  in  the  period  in  which  such  determination  is  made.  The 
provision  for  income  taxes  includes  the  impact  of  reserve  provisions  and  changes  to  reserves  that  are  considered 
appropriate, as well as the related net interest. 

Our  effective  tax  rates  have  differed  from  the  statutory  rate  primarily  due  to  the  tax  impact  of  tax-exempt  interest 
income, foreign operations, research and development tax credits, state taxes, certain benefits realized related to stock 
option  activity,  and  changes  in  valuation  allowance.  Our  current  effective  tax  rate  does  not  assume  U.S.  taxes  on 
undistributed profits of foreign subsidiaries. These earnings could become subject to incremental foreign withholding 
or U.S. federal and state taxes, should they either be deemed or actually remitted to the United States. The effective tax 
rate for financial statement provision / (benefit) purposes was approximately 0% in 2010, (102)% in 2009, and 22% in 
2008. Our future effective tax rates could be affected by earnings being lower than anticipated in countries where we 
have lower statutory rates and being higher than anticipated in countries where we have higher statutory rates, or by 
changes  in  tax  laws,  accounting  principles,  interpretations  thereof,  net  operating  loss  carryback,  research  and 
development tax credits, and due to changes in the valuation allowance of our U.S. deferred tax assets. In addition, we 
are subject to the examination of our income tax returns by the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities. We 
regularly assess the likelihood of adverse outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our 
provision for income taxes. 

At December 31, 2010, we had an aggregate of approximately $3 million of unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries 
that  have  been,  or  are  intended  to  be,  indefinitely  reinvested  for  continued  use  in  foreign  operations.  If  the  total 
undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries were remitted, a significant amount of the additional tax would be offset 
by the allowable foreign tax credits. It is not practical for us to determine the additional tax of remitting these earnings. 

Our deferred tax assets are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the 
financial  reporting  and  tax  bases  of  assets  and  liabilities,  and  for  operating  losses  and  tax  credit  carryforwards.  A 
valuation allowance reduces deferred tax assets to estimated realizable value, which assumes that it is more likely than 
not  that  we  will  be  able  to  generate  sufficient  future  taxable  income  in  certain  tax  jurisdictions  to  realize  the  net 
carrying value. The four sources of taxable income to be considered in determining whether a valuation allowance is 
required include: 

•  Future  reversals  of  existing  taxable  temporary  differences  (i.e.,  offset  gross  deferred  tax  assets  against 

gross deferred tax liabilities); 

•  Future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; 
•  Taxable income in prior carryback years; and 
•  Tax planning strategies.  

Determining whether  a  valuation  allowance for deferred  tax  assets  is necessary  requires  an  analysis of  both  positive 
and negative evidence regarding realization of the deferred tax assets. In general, positive evidence may include: 

•  A strong earnings history exclusive of the loss that created the deductible temporary differences, coupled 
with evidence indicating that the loss is the result of an aberration rather than a continuing condition; and 
•  An excess of appreciated asset value over the tax basis of our net assets in an amount sufficient to realize 

the deferred tax asset. 

40 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In general, negative evidence may include: 

•  A history of operating loss or tax credit carryforwards expiring unused; 
•  An expectation of being in a cumulative loss position in a future reporting period; 
•  The existence of cumulative losses in recent years; and 
•  A carryback or carryforward period that is so brief that it would limit the realization of tax benefits.  

The weight given to the potential effect of negative and positive evidence should be commensurate with the extent to 
which  it  can  be  objectively  verified  and  judgment  must  be  used  in  considering  the  relative  impact  of  positive  and 
negative evidence. 

In evaluating the ability to recover deferred tax assets, we considered available positive and negative evidence, giving 
greater  weight  to  our  recent  cumulative  losses  and  our  ability  to  carry-back  losses  against  prior  taxable  income  and 
lesser weight to its projected financial results due to the challenges of forecasting future periods. We also considered, 
commensurate with its objective verifiability, the forecast of future taxable income including the reversal of temporary 
differences. At the end of the quarter ended September 30, 2009, changes in previously anticipated expectations and 
continued  operating  losses  resulted  in  a  valuation  allowance  against  our  tax  benefits  since  we  no  longer  considered 
them  “more-likely-than-not”  realizable.  We  also  performed  this  evaluation  as  of  the  year  ended  December  31,  2010 
and determined the full valuation allowance was still required. 

Long-Lived Asset Impairment 

Long-lived assets, such as property and equipment and intangible assets, are reviewed for impairment whenever events 
or  changes  in  circumstances  indicate  that  the  carrying  amount  of  such  assets  may  not  ultimately  be  recoverable. 
Determination of recoverability is based on an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the 
asset and its ultimate disposition. If the sum of the expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of those 
assets, we recognize an impairment loss based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets. 
Through December 31, 2010, there have been no such impairments. 

Litigation 

We have been, and may in the future become, subject to legal proceedings related to securities litigation, intellectual 
property and other matters such as the TCPA litigation and the securities class Action Lawsuit described in Item 3—
Legal  Proceedings.  Based  on  all  available  information  at  the  balance  sheet  dates,  we  assess  the  likelihood  of  any 
adverse judgments or outcomes for these matters, as well as potential ranges of probable loss. If losses are probable 
and reasonably estimable, we record a reserve. See “Item 3 - Legal Proceedings” in Part I, of this Form 10-K. 

Recent Accounting Guidance 

For a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the respective expected dates of adoption and 
effects  on  results  of  operations  and  financial  condition  see  Note  1  “Summary  of  Significant  Accounting  Policies  — 
New Accounting Standards” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K. 

41 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Results of Operations 

The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial data expressed as a percentage of net revenue. 

Net revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Cost of revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Operating expenses: 

Sales and marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Litigation settlement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Loss from operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Interest and other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Other-than-temporary impairment of long-term investments. . . . . . . . .    
Loss before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Provision (benefit) for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Net Revenue 

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008

2010

100% 
43% 
57% 

47% 
13% 
18% 
—% 
78% 
(21)%   
1% 
—% 
(20)%   
—% 
(20)%   

100% 
41% 
59% 

45% 
13% 
19% 
1% 
78% 
(19)%   
3% 
—% 
(16)%   
17% 
(33)%   

100% 
39% 
61% 

42% 
9% 
14% 
—% 
65% 
(4)%
4% 
(4)%
(4)%
(1)%
(3)%

The  following  table  sets  forth  selected  consolidated  revenue  by  major  geographic  area  and  product  category  with 
changes thereof. 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Revenue mix by geography: 
United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Percent of total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Asia, excluding Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Europe  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Rest of the world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total international revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Percent of total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

$

2010

  % Change

Year Ended December 31, 
2009(1)

  % Change 

2008(1)

$

19,337 

(8)% $

21,019 

(50)% $ 41,683 

36% 

13,625 
5,131 
5,801 
9,380 
33,937 

64% 

39%   

50%

41%  $
9%   
(18)%  
(16)%  
4%   

9,636 
4,727 
7,087 
11,213 
32,663 

(12)% $ 10,929 
(17)%  
5,713 
(33)%   10,522 
(23)%   14,532 
(22)%   41,696 

61%   

50%

Total consolidated revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

$

53,274 

(1)% $

53,682 

(36)% $ 83,379 

Revenue mix by product category: 
Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Titan hand piece refills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals(1) . . . . . . . .  
Total consolidated revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

$

$

27,808 
4,824 
13,231 
3,863 
3,548 
53,274 

4%  $
(24)%  
—%   
(31)%  
107%   
(1)% $

26,842 
6,343 
13,186 
5,599 
1,712 
53,682 

(54)% $ 57,821 
8,361 
(24)%  
16%    11,358 
5,662 
(1)%  
867%   
177 
(36)% $ 83,379 

(1) Beginning in 2010, we classified revenue from dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals product in the revenue category 
‘Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals.’ Previously, we classified this revenue under the category of ‘Products.’ As such, 
we reclassified the 2009 and 2008 revenue from ‘Products’ to ‘Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals.’ 

42 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue by Geography: 

In 2010 our net revenue declined by 1%, compared to 2009, and in 2009 it declined by 36%, compared to 2008. 

Our U.S. revenue decreased by 8% in 2010, compared to 2009, and by 50% in 2009, compared to 2008. We believe the 
decline in U.S. revenues was attributable to several factors, including: 

•  Our Products and Upgrades ASPs declined in 2010 and 2009, compared to their respective prior years. 
This was attributable primarily to customers purchasing fewer applications for systems and lower pricing 
resulting from competitive discounting pressures. 

•  Though our unit sales of Products and Upgrades increased in 2010, compared with 2009, they declined in 

2009, compared to 2008. 

•  We  experienced  a  temporary  decline  in  our  Titan  refill  revenue  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  due  to  a 
voluntary recall of certain Titan XL hand pieces. All customers that had a Titan XL hand pieces subject to 
the recall, were provided with fully “refilled” hand pieces, which delayed their purchase of a refill. 

International revenues increased by 4% in 2010, compared to 2009, and decreased by 22% in 2009, compared to 2008. 
The growth in our international revenue in 2010 was sourced from most of the international locations that we sell in. In 
Japan,  our  revenue  increased  by  41%  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  as  a  result  of  growth  from  all  of  our  product 
categories and the recently added Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals business. With respect to Australia, our revenue 
declined  in  2010  by  approximately  65%  due  to  2009  being  an  unusually  high  revenue  year  in  which  a  special  tax 
incentive was offered by the government to incentivize customers to purchase capital equipment. The 2009 decline in 
our international revenue, compared to 2008, was primarily attributable to the global recession that caused our current 
and  prospective  customers  to  be  reluctant  to  spend  significant  amounts  of  money  on  capital  equipment  purchases 
during the unstable economic time. 

Revenue by Product Category: 

Our  product  revenue  increased  by  4%  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  and  decreased  by  54%  in  2009,  compared  to 
2008. The 2010 increase in product revenue was primarily attributable to revenue from the GenesisPlus product that 
was  launched  in  the  third  quarter  of  2010.  The  2009  declines  in  Product  revenue,  compared  to  2008,  was  primarily 
attributable  to  the  global  recession  that  caused  our  current  and  prospective  customers  to  be  reluctant  to  spend 
significant amounts of money on capital equipment purchases during the unstable economic times. We believe that in 
2009 and in 2010, some of our U.S. current and prospective customers that did not have established medical offices, 
continued  to  be  reluctant  to  purchase  capital  equipment  due  to  the  general  economic  uncertainty  and  tight  credit 
conditions. 

Upgrade revenue decreased by 24% in both 2010 and 2009, compared to the respective prior year periods. In the past, 
we  introduced  new  products  that  allowed  existing  customers  to  upgrade  their  previously  purchased  systems  to  take 
benefit of the additional capabilities. However, in 2010 we introduced GenesisPlus- a stand alone product- and in 2009 
we did not have a new product introduction, which resulted in the decline in our Upgrade revenue. Further, our ASPs 
for  Upgrades  declined  in  2010  and  2009,  compared  to  the  respective  prior  year  periods,  as  a  result  of  customers 
purchasing fewer handpieces and due to competitive discounting pressures. 

Our Service revenue remained relatively flat in 2010, compared to 2009, and increased by 16% in 2009, compared to 
2008. Service contract amortization is the primary component of our service revenue. In years prior to 2009, we had 
discounted  pricing  promotions  for  incentivizing  customers  to  purchase  multiple  year  service  contracts,  however,  in 
2009 and 2010 we did not have such promotions. 

As a result, our service revenue increased in 2009, compared to 2008, due to the continuing amortization of deferred 
service contracts purchased prior to 2009. However, in 2010, service revenue remained flat as a result of the decline in 
unit  sales  in  2009  that  included  an  element  of  deferred  revenue  for  service  contracts  beyond  our  standard  one-year 
warranty term. 

Our Titan hand piece refill revenue decreased 31% in 2010, compared to 2009, and decreased 1% in 2009, compared to 
2008. The decrease in 2010 was due to a voluntary recall of certain Titan XL hand pieces whereby eligible customers 
were provided with fully refilled hand pieces. 

43 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our  Dermal  filler  and  cosmeceutical  business  increased  by  107%  in  2010,  compared  to  2009.  This  increase  was 
attributable  primarily  due  to  the  commencement  in  2010  of  the  distribution  of  Obagi’s  cosmeceutical  products  to 
physicians in the Japanese market. 

Gross Profit 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Gross Profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
As a percentage of total revenue . . . . . .  

2010
30,216 

$

57% 

  % Change

Year Ended December 31, 
2009

  % Change 

2008

(5)%  $  31,923 

(37)%  $ 51,021 

59%   

61%

Our cost of revenue consists primarily of materials, personnel expenses, royalty expense, warranty and manufacturing 
overhead expenses. Gross margin as a percentage of net revenue was 57% in 2010, 59% in 2009 and 61% in 2008. We 
believe  the  decrease  in  gross  margins  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  and  2009,  compared  to  2008,  was  primarily 
attributable to the following: 

•  The  2010  voluntary  recall  of  certain  Titan  XL  hand  pieces  whereby  eligible  customers  were  provided 

with fully refilled hand pieces; 

•  A $1.7 million, or 31%, temporary decrease in our Titan refill revenue in 2010, compared to 2009, for 

which we traditionally earn a higher gross margin than our blended total gross margin percentage; 

•  Our ASPs have declined due primarily to customers purchasing fewer applications on their platforms and 

due to competitive discounting pressures; 

•  A higher proportion of distributor revenue that carries a lower gross margin; partially offset by 
•  Lower manufacturing expenses resulting from headcount reductions; and 
•  Reduced  warranty  and  service  expenses  as  a  result  of  improved  product  reliability  (for  products  other 

than Titan XL hand pieces). 

Sales and Marketing 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Sales and marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
As a percentage of total revenue . . . . . .  

2010
24,735 

$

  % Change

  % Change 

2008

Year Ended December 31, 
2009
24,286 

2%  $

47% 

45%   

(31 )%  $ 35,354 

42%

Our sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of personnel expenses, expenses associated with customer-attended 
workshops and trade shows, and advertising. Sales and marketing expenses increased $449,000 in 2010, compared to 
2009, which was primarily attributable to the following: 

• 

• 

$855,000 increase in personnel expenses in marketing due primarily to an increase in headcount resulting 
from  the  creation  of  three  new  departments:  post  marketing  studies  (clinical  development),  business 
development and telesales; 
$242,000 increase in international spending on workshops, advertising and other promotional activities; 
offset by  

•  A decline  in U.S.  sales personnel  expenses  by $617,000  due  to  lower headcount;  and due  to decreased 

sales commissions resulting from lower U.S revenue. 

In  2009  sales  and  marketing  expenses  decreased  by  $11.1  million, compared  to  2008.  This  decrease  was  primarily 
attributable to: 

• 

• 
• 

lower salaries and commissions expenses of $5.4 million as a result of our reduction in force during the 
first half of 2009 and lower sales volumes in 2009; 
lower travel and travel related expenses of $1.8 million; and 
lower marketing expenses of $983,000 as a result of less spending on workshops, advertising and other 
promotional activities. 

Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of total revenue, increased to 46% in 2010, compared to 45% in 2009 
and 42% in 2008. This increase was due primarily to a decline in our total revenue in 2009 and 2010. 

44 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Research and Development (R&D) 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
As a percentage of total revenue . . . . . .  

2010

$ 

7,004 

13% 

  % Change

Year Ended December 31, 
2009

  % Change 

2008

3%  $ 

6,810 

(10)%  $ 

7,550 

13%   

9%

Research and development (R&D) expenses consist primarily of personnel expenses, clinical, regulatory and material 
costs.  R&D  expenses  increased  $194,000  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  which  was  due  primarily  to  higher  personnel 
expenses resulting from higher headcount in engineering relating to new product development programs. 

In  2009  R&D  expenses  decreased  by  $740,000,  compared  to  2008,  which  was  due  primarily  to  lower  headcount 
(partially  resulting  from  a  reduction-in-force  that  we  implemented  in  the  first-half  of  2009)  and  a  reduction  in 
consulting services of $689,000. R&D expenses as a percentage of total revenue, increased to 13% in 2009, compared 
to 9% in 2008, due primarily to a function of lower revenue in 2009 mitigated by cost containment. 

General and Administrative (G&A) 

(Dollars in thousands) 
General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
As a percentage of total revenue . . . . . .  

2010

$

9,576 

  % Change

  % Change 

2008

Year Ended December 31, 
2009
10,320 

(7)%  $

18% 

19%   

(8)%  $ 11,270 

14%

General  and  administrative  expenses  consist  primarily  of:  personnel  expenses,  legal  fees,  accounting,  audit  and  tax 
consulting  fees,  and  other  general  and  administrative  expenses. G&A  expenses  decreased  by  $744,000  in  2010, 
compared to 2009, which was primarily attributable to: 

• 
• 

a $626,000 reduction in bad debts expense due to a large non recurring expense in 2009; and 
a $201,000 reduction in legal fees and legal settlement expenses. 

In 2009 G&A expenses decreased by $950,000, compared to 2008. This decrease was primarily attributable to: 

• 

• 

• 

a  decrease  in  legal,  audit  and  tax  consulting  fees  of  $587,000, due  to  reduced fees  from  the  consulting 
firms, partially offset by higher consulting fees related to our 2009 Option Exchange Program; 
a  decrease  in  personnel  expenses  of  $206,000  due  primarily  to  lower  headcount  (resulting  from  a 
reduction-in-force that we implemented in the first-half of 2009); partly offset by 
an increase in bad debt expense of $392,000, resulting primarily from one leasing company that defaulted 
on its payment in the second quarter of 2009 due to it having significant financial problems. 

Litigation Settlement 

In 2009, we settled our TCPA class action lawsuit and in that regard recorded a charge of $850,000 for the cost of the 
settlement, net of administrative expenses and amounts that were recovered from our insurance carrier. 

Interest and Other Income, Net 

The components of “Interest and Other Income, Net” are as follows: 

  % Change

Year Ended December 31, 
2009

  % Change 

2008

(61)%  $ 
(77)%   
(63)%  $ 

1,383 
189 
1,572 

(56)%  $  3,170 
NA 
(124) 
(48)%  $  3,046 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Other income (expense), net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total Interest and other income, net . . .  

$

$

2010

539 
44 
583 

45 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest  income  decreased  61%  in  2010,  compared  to  2009,  and  decreased  56%  in  2009,  compared  to  2008.  These 
decreases  were  due  primarily  to  reduced  tax-exempt  interest  yields,  as  a  result  of  lower  interest  rates,  and  reduced 
investment  balance.  Our  cash,  cash  equivalents,  marketable  investments  and  long-term  investments  measured  and 
recognized at fair value were $96.8 million at December 31, 2010, $106.9 million at December 31, 2009 and $106.8 
million December 31, 2008. 

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments of Long-Term Investments 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Other-than-temporary impairment of long-

term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

2010

  % Change

Year Ended December 31, 
2009

  % Change 

2008

$ 

— 

NA 

$ 

— 

(100)%  $  3,554 

For the year ended December 31, 2008, we determined there was a decline in the fair value of our ARS investments for 
which  we  recorded  a  $3.6  million  other-than-temporary  impairment  charge.  See  the  ‘Critical  Accounting  Estimates’ 
section above, for additional details relating to the charge. 

Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Loss before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Provision (benefit) for income taxes . . . . . . . . .  
Effective tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

2010

$ (10,516)  $

2 
0%   

Year Ended December 31, 
2009

$ Change

$ Change 

2008

(1,745)  $ (8,771) 
8,908 
(8,906) 
(102)%   

$ 

(5110)  $ (3,661) 
(792) 
9,700 
22%

We recognized a $2,000 income tax provision in 2010, resulting in a 0% effective tax rate, and due principally to a full 
valuation allowance applied against deferred tax assets arising during the year. We recognized an income tax provision 
of $8.9 million in 2009, despite losses before taxes. The provision was primarily due to the recording of a valuation 
allowance at the end of the third quarter of 2009 to reduce certain U.S. federal and state net deferred tax assets to their 
anticipated realizable value, of which $10.2 million related to our U.S. deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2008. 
This valuation allowance was offset by $1.3 million of certain tax benefits resulting from losses generated during fiscal 
2009 that were carried-back to prior periods. 

ASC  740  requires  the  consideration  of  a  valuation  allowance  to  reflect  the  likelihood  of  realization  of  deferred  tax 
assets. Significant management judgment is required in determining any valuation allowance recorded against deferred 
tax  assets.  In  evaluating  the  ability  to  recover  deferred  tax  assets  we  considered  available  positive  and  negative 
evidence,  giving  greater  weight  to  our  recent  cumulative  losses  and  our  ability  to  carry-back  losses  against  prior 
taxable income and lesser weight to our projected financial results due to challenges of forecasting future periods. We 
also  considered,  commensurate  with  its  objective  verifiability,  the  forecast  of  future  taxable  income  including  the 
reversal  of  temporary  differences.  At  the  end  of  the  quarter  ended  September  30,  2009, revisions  in  previously 
anticipated expectations and continued operating losses resulted in a valuation allowance against our tax benefits since 
it  was  not  considered  “more-likely-than-not”  realizable.  We  also  performed  this  evaluation  as  of  the  years  ended 
December 31, 2009 and 2010 and determined the full valuation allowance was still required. Under current tax laws, 
this  valuation  allowance  will  not  limit  our  ability  to  utilize  federal  and  state  deferred  tax  assets  provided  we  can 
generate sufficient future taxable income in the U.S. 

We  anticipate  we  will  continue  to  record  a  valuation  allowance  against  the  losses  of  certain  jurisdictions,  primarily 
U.S. federal and state, until such time as we are able to determine it is “more-likely-than-not” the deferred tax asset 
will be realized. Such position is dependent on whether there will be sufficient future taxable income to realize such 
deferred  tax  assets.  We  expect  our  future  tax  provisions  (benefits),  during  the  time  such  valuation  allowances  are 
recorded, will consist primarily of the tax expense of our non-U.S. jurisdictions that are profitable. Our effective tax 
rate may vary from period to period based on changes in estimated taxable income or loss by jurisdiction, changes to 
the valuation allowance, changes to federal, state or foreign tax laws, future expansion into areas with varying country, 
state, and local income tax rates, deductibility of certain costs and expenses by jurisdiction. 

46 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Loss and Net Loss per Diluted Share 

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data) 
Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Net loss per diluted share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

2010
$ (10,518) 
(0.78) 
$

  % Change

Year Ended December 31, 
2009

  % Change 

(41)% $ (17,679) 
(1.33) 
(41)% $

516 %  $
505 %  $

2008
(2,869)
(0.22)

The $7.2 million decrease in net loss, and $0.55 decrease in net loss per diluted share in 2010, compared to 2009, was 
primarily attributable to: 

• 

• 

• 

a reduction in the tax provision by $8.9 million, which was principally a function of the deferred tax asset 
valuation allowances recorded in 2009; 
lower  operating  expenses  of  $951,000,  due  primarily  to  the  $850,000  litigation  settlement  expense  in 
2009 not being incurred in 2010; 
offset by a decline in our gross profit by $1.7 million and other income by $989,000. 

The $14.8 million increase in net loss, and $1.11 increase in net loss per diluted share in 2009, compared to 2008, was 
primarily  attributable  to  lower  revenue  of  $29.7  million,  partially  offset  by  a  decrease  of  $11.9  million  in  operating 
expenses. 

Liquidity and Capital Resources 

Liquidity  is  the  measurement  of  our  ability  to  meet  potential  cash  requirements,  fund  the  planned  expansion  of  our 
operations and acquire businesses. Our sources of cash include operations, stock option exercises, and employee stock 
purchases. We actively manage our cash usage and investment of liquid cash to ensure the maintenance of sufficient 
funds  to  meet  our  daily  needs.  The  majority  of  our  cash  and  investments  are  held  in  U.S.  banks  and  our  foreign 
subsidiaries maintain a limited amount of cash in their local banks to cover their short-term operating expenses. The 
following  table  summarizes  our  cash  and  cash  equivalents,  marketable  investments  and  long-term  investments  (in 
thousands): 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities: 

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Marketable investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Cash Flows 

In summary, our cash flows were as flows: 

(Dollars in thousands) 
Cash flows provided by (used in): 

Operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents. . . . . .  

$

$

$

$

2010

As of December 31, 
2009 

Change

12,519 
77,484 
6,784 
96,787 

$

$

22,829 
76,780 
7,275 
106,884 

$

$

(10,310)
704 
(491)
(10,097)

2010

Year ended December 31, 
2009 

2008

(8,059)  $
(2,777) 
526 
(10,310)  $

$

41 
(14,360) 
608 
(13,711)  $

4,340 
20,644 
502 
25,486 

47 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities 

We used net cash of $8.1 million in operating activities during 2010, which was primarily attributable to: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

$5.2 million used from net loss of $10.5 million after adjusting for non-cash related items of $5.3 million, 
consisting  primarily  of  stock  based  compensation  expense  of  $4.7  million  and  depreciation  and 
amortization expense of $717,000; 
$2.6 million used as a result of a decrease in accrued liabilities due primarily to a reduction in the liability 
for  warranty  costs  of  $253,000  resulting  primarily  from  a  reduction  in  the  total  units  remaining  under 
warranty,  a  decrease  in  accrued  expenses  of  $1.4  million  for  payroll,  professional  services,  sales  & 
marketing, and other miscellaneous expenses resulting from continued cost containment initiatives, and a 
reduction of approximately $950,000 for the pay out of our prior year accrual for the TCPA class action 
lawsuit; and 
$1.2 million used as a result of a decrease in deferred revenue due primarily to a reduction in deferred 
service contracts resulting from a decline in our sales unit volume in 2009 and a reduction in the pricing 
charged for service contracts; partially offset by 
$2.3 million generated from a reduction in other current assets and prepaid expenses, resulting primarily 
from a reduction in accrued interest and unamortized discounts related to our marketable and long-term 
investments. 

We generated net cash from operating activities of $41,000 in 2009, which was primarily attributable to: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

$849,000 used from net loss of $17.7 million after adjusting for non-cash related items of $16.8 million, 
consisting  primarily  of  a  valuation  allowance  on  our  deferred  tax  asset  of  $10.5  million,  stock-based 
compensation expense of $4.2 million, net increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts of $525,000 
due primarily to one leasing company that has defaulted on its payment, and an increase in the provision 
for  excess  and  obsolete  inventories  of  $611,000  resulting  from  the  reduced  future  demand  for  our 
products; and 
$3.5 million used as a result of a decrease in deferred revenue due primarily to a decrease in unit sales 
volume of Products and Upgrades that included purchases of extended service contracts, a reduction in 
our  service  contract  pricing  beginning  in  2010,  a  shift  by  customers  towards  purchasing  shorter  term 
contracts,  and  fewer  customers  purchasing  extended  service  contracts  in  response  to  improved  product 
reliability and to a tougher economy; offset by 
$2.9  million  of  cash  generated  by  the  decrease  in  gross  inventory  balance  from  December  31,  2009  to 
December 31, 2010, that resulted from slowing our inventory build to better match the reduced sales of 
our products; and 
$1.9 million of cash generated by the decrease in gross accounts receivable balance from December 31, 
2009  to  December  31,  2010  that  resulted  from  the  collection  of  the  higher  2009  year-end  accounts 
receivable balances. 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities 

We used net cash of $2.8 million from investing activities in 2010, which was primarily attributable to: 

• 

• 
• 

$85.3 million in net proceeds from the sales and maturities of $650,000 of our ARS investments and due 
to us diversifying out of municipal securities into other secure financial instruments; partially offset by 
$87.8 million of cash used to purchase marketable investments; and 
$275,000 of cash used to purchase property and equipment. 

We used net cash of $14.4 million from investing activities in 2009, which was primarily attributable to: 

• 
• 

$53.7 million of cash used to purchase marketable investments; partially offset by 
$39.4 million in net proceeds from the sales and maturities of marketable investments. 

48 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities 

Net cash provided by financing activities in 2010 was $526,000, which resulted from $518,000 of cash generated by 
the issuance of stock through our stock option and employee stock purchase plans and $8,000 of excess tax benefits 
related to stock-based compensation expenses reclassified from operating activities to financing activities. 

Net cash provided by financing activities in 2009 was $608,000, which resulted from $585,000 of cash generated by 
the issuance of stock through our stock option and employee stock purchase plans and $23,000 of excess tax benefits 
related  to  stock-based  compensation  expenses  reclassified  from  operating  activities  to  financing  activities  in 
accordance with FAS 123(R). 

Adequacy of cash resources to meet future needs 

We had cash, cash equivalents, marketable and long-term investments of $96.8 million as of December 31, 2010. Of 
this  amount,  we  had  $6.8  million  invested  in  long-term  ARS  investments  (see  ‘Critical  Accounting  Policies  and 
Estimates’ section above, for a full description of our long-term investments in ARS). We believe that our existing cash 
resources are sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs for working capital and capital expenditures for at least the 
next 12 months. 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 

We do not participate in transactions that generate relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, 
such as entities often referred to as structured finance, variable interest or special purpose entities, which would have 
been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited 
purposes. 

We have certain contractual arrangements that create potential risk for us and are not recognized in our Consolidated 
Balance  Sheets.  Discussed  below  are  off-balance  sheet  arrangements  that  have  or  are  reasonably  likely  to  have  a 
material current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenue or expenses, results 
of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures, or capital resources. 

We lease various real properties under operating leases that generally require us to pay taxes, insurance, maintenance, 
and minimum lease payments. Some of our leases have options to renew. 

Contractual Obligations 

The following are our obligations for future minimum lease commitments related to facility leases as of December 31, 
2010: 

Contractual Obligations 
Operating leases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total

Less Than 
1 Year

1-3 Years

3-5 Years 

More Than
5 Years

$

9,632 

$

1,688 

$

2,790 

$

2,501 

$

2,653 

Payments Due by Period ($’000’s) 

Purchase Commitments 

We  maintain  certain  open  inventory  purchase  commitments  with  our  suppliers  to  ensure  a  smooth  and  continuous 
supply for key components. Our liability in these purchase commitments is generally restricted to a forecasted time-
horizon as agreed between the parties. These forecasted time-horizons can vary among different suppliers. Our open 
inventory purchase commitments were not material at December 31, 2010. As a result, this amount is not included in 
the contractual obligations table above. 

Income Tax Liability 

We  have  included  in our  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet $477,000  in long-term income  tax  liability  with  respect  to 
unrecognized tax  benefits  and  accrued  interest  as  of  December  31,  2010. At  this  time,  we  are  unable  to  make  a 
reasonably reliable estimate of the timing of payments in individual years beyond 12 months due to uncertainties in the 
timing of tax audit outcomes. As a result, this amount is not included in the contractual obligations table above. 

49 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other 

In  the normal  course of business,  we enter  into agreements  that  contain  a variety  of representations,  warranties,  and 
indemnification obligations. For example, we have entered into indemnification agreements with each of our directors 
and  executive  officers.  Our  exposure  under  the  various  indemnification  obligations  is  unknown  and  not  reasonably 
estimable as they involve future claims that may be made against us. As such, we have not accrued any amounts for 
such obligations. 

ITEM 7A. 

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK 

Interest Rate Sensitivity 

Our exposure to interest rate risk relates primarily to our investment portfolio. Fixed rate securities may have their fair 
market value adversely impacted due to fluctuations in interest rates, while floating rate securities  may produce less 
income than expected if interest rates fall. Due in part to these factors, our future investment income may fall short of 
expectation due to changes in interest rates or we may suffer losses in principal if forced to sell securities which have 
declined  in  market  value  due  to  changes  in  interest  rates.  The  primary  objective  of  our  investment  activities  is  to 
preserve  principal  while  at  the  same  time  maximizing  yields  without  significantly  increasing  risk.  To  achieve  this 
objective, we invest in debt instruments of the U.S. Government and its agencies and municipal bonds, and, by policy, 
restrict  our  exposure  to  any  single  type  of  investment  or  issuer  by  imposing  concentration  limits.  To  minimize  the 
exposure due to adverse shifts in interest rates, we maintain investments at a weighted average maturity (interest reset 
date  for  ARS)  of  generally  less  than  eighteen  months.  Assuming  a  hypothetical  increase  in  interest  rates  of  one 
percentage  point,  the  fair  value  of  our  total  investment  portfolio  would  have  potentially  declined  by  approximately 
$651,000 as of December 31, 2010. 

We  hold  interest  bearing  ARS  that  represent  investments  in  pools  of  student  loans  issued  by  the  Federal  Family 
Education Loan Program. At the time of acquisition, these ARS investments were intended to provide liquidity via an 
auction process that resets the applicable interest rate at predetermined calendar intervals, allowing investors to either 
roll over their holdings or gain immediate liquidity by selling such interests at par. Since February 2008, uncertainties 
in  the  credit  markets  affected  our  holdings  in  ARS  investments  and  auctions  for  all  of  our  investments  in  these 
securities failed until December 31, 2008. In 2010 and 2009, approximately $650,000 and $4.4 million, respectively of 
our  original  $13.4  million  par  value  portfolio  has  been  redeemed  in  full  and  as  of  December  31,  2010  we  had  $8.3 
million par value (fair value of $6.8 million) of long-term ARS, whose auctions continue to fail. These investments are 
not  currently  liquid  and  we  will  not  be  able  to  access  these  funds  until  a  future  auction  of  these  investments  is 
successful, a buyer is found outside of the auction process or the ARS is refinanced by the issuer into another type of 
debt instrument. Maturity dates for these ARS investments range from 2028 to 2043. We currently classify all of these 
investments  as  long-term  investments  in  our  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet  because  of  our  continuing  inability  to 
determine when these investments will settle. We have also modified our current investment strategy and increased our 
investments  in  more  liquid  money  market  investments,  United  States  Treasury  securities,  municipal  bonds,  and 
eliminated investments in corporate debt. The valuation of our ARS investment portfolio is subject to uncertainties that 
are  difficult  to  predict.  Factors  that  may  impact  its  valuation  include, duration of  time  that  the  ARS  remain  illiquid, 
changes to credit ratings of the securities, rates of default of the underlying assets, changes in the underlying collateral 
value,  market  discount  rates  for  similar  illiquid  investments,  ongoing  strength  and  quality  of  credit  markets.  If  the 
auctions for our ARS investments continue to fail, and there is a further decline in the valuation, then we would have 
to: (i) record additional reductions to the fair value of our ARS investments; and (ii) record unrealized losses in our 
accumulated comprehensive income (loss) for the losses in value that are associated with market risk. If the decline in 
fair value is considered other-than-temporary then we would have to record an impairment charge in our Consolidated 
Statement of Operations for the loss in value associated with the worsening of the credit worthiness (credit losses) of 
the issuer, which would reduce future earnings and harm our business. 

50 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk 

We  have  international  subsidiaries  and  operations  and  are,  therefore,  subject  to  foreign  currency  rate  exposure. 
Although  the  majority  of  our  revenue  and  purchases  are  denominated  in  U.S.  dollars,  we  have  revenue  to  certain 
international  customers  and  expenses  denominated  in  the  Japanese  Yen,  Euro,  Pounds  Sterling,  Australian  Dollars, 
Swiss Francs and Canadian Dollars. The net gains and losses from the revaluation of foreign denominated assets and 
liabilities  was  a  loss  of  approximately  $34,000  in  2010,  which  is  included  in  our  Consolidated  Statements  of 
Operations.  Movements  in  currency  exchange  rates  could  cause variability  in  our revenues,  expenses  or  interest  and 
other income (expense). Though to date our exposure to exchange rate volatility has not been significant, we cannot 
assure  that  there  will  not  be  a  material  impact  in  the  future.  Future  fluctuations  in  the  value  of  the  U.S.  dollar  may 
affect the price competitiveness of our products. We do not believe, however, that we currently have significant direct 
foreign currency exchange rate risk and have not hedged exposures denominated in foreign currencies. 

We  do  not  utilize  derivative  financial  instruments,  derivative  commodity  instruments  or  other  market  risk  sensitive 
instruments. 

51 

 
 
ITEM 8. 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA 

CUTERA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES 

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K 

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

The following Consolidated Financial Statements of the Registrant and its subsidiaries are required to be included in 
Item 8: 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Balance Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page
53

54

55

56

58

59

The  following  Consolidated  Financial  Statement  Schedule  of  the  Registrant  and  its  subsidiaries  for  the  years  ended 
December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is filed as a part of this Report as required to be included in Item 15(a) and should 
be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Registrant and its subsidiaries: 

Schedule 
II 

  Valuation and Qualifying Accounts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page
82

All other required schedules are omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because 
the required information is given in the Consolidated Financial Statements or the Notes thereto. 

52 

 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
Report Of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of 
Cutera, Inc.: 

In  our  opinion,  the  consolidated  financial  statements  listed  in  the  accompanying  index  present  fairly,  in  all  material 
respects, the financial position of Cutera, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, and 
the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010 in 
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, 
the  financial  statement  schedule  listed  in  the  accompanying  index  presents  fairly,  in  all  material  respects,  the 
information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our 
opinion,  the  Company  maintained,  in  all  material  respects,  effective  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of 
December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee 
of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for 
these  financial  statements  and  financial  statement  schedule,  for  maintaining  effective  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting  and  for  its  assessment  of  the  effectiveness  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  included  in 
Management’s  Report  on  Internal  Control  over  Financial  Reporting  under  Item  9A.  Our  responsibility  is  to  express 
opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, and on the Company’s internal control over 
financial  reporting  based  on  our  integrated  audits.  We  conducted  our  audits in  accordance  with  the  standards  of  the 
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the 
audits  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  about  whether  the  financial  statements  are  free  of  material  misstatement  and 
whether  effective  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  was  maintained  in  all  material  respects.  Our  audits  of  the 
financial  statements  included  examining,  on  a  test  basis,  evidence  supporting  the  amounts  and  disclosures  in  the 
financial  statements,  assessing  the  accounting  principles  used  and  significant  estimates  made  by  management,  and 
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included 
obtaining  an  understanding  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  assessing  the  risk  that  a  material  weakness 
exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. 
Our  audits  also  included  performing  such  other  procedures  as  we  considered  necessary  in  the  circumstances.  We 
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions. 

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts 
for other-than-temporary impairments in 2009. 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding 
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with 
generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies 
and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the 
transactions  and  dispositions  of  the  assets  of  the  company;  (ii)  provide  reasonable  assurance  that  transactions  are 
recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting 
principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of 
management  and  directors  of  the  company;  and  (iii)  provide  reasonable  assurance  regarding  prevention  or  timely 
detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on 
the financial statements. 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. 
Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become 
inadequate  because  of  changes  in  conditions,  or  that  the  degree  of  compliance  with  the  policies  or  procedures  may 
deteriorate. 

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers 

San Jose, California 
March 15, 2011 

53 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CUTERA, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 
(in thousands, except share and per share data) 

Assets 
Current assets: 

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Marketable investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts in 2010 and 

2009 of $20 and $586, respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred tax asset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other current assets and prepaid expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Property and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Intangibles, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred tax asset, net of current portion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity 
Current liabilities: 

Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Accrued liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred rent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred revenue, net of current portion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Income tax liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 11) 
Stockholders’ equity: 
Convertible preferred stock, $0.001 par value Authorized: 5,000,000 shares; none 

issued and outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Common stock, $0.001 par value: 

Authorized: 50,000,000 shares; Issued and outstanding: 13,629,713 and 

13,436,163 shares in 2010 and 2009, respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Additional paid-in capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

December 31, 

2010 

2009

$

12,519 
77,484 

$

22,829 
76,780 

4,208 
6,448 
63 
2,740 
103,462 
597 
6,784 
637 
325 
111,805 

1,296 
6,194 
5,633 
13,123 
1,501 
1,287 
477 
16,388 

$

$

3,327 
6,408 
175 
2,785 
112,304 
847 
7,275 
829 
97 
121,352 

1,081 
9,048 
6,160 
16,289 
1,493 
1,968 
749 
20,499 

— 

— 

14 
90,423 
6,736 
(1,756) 
95,417 
111,805 

$

13 
85,248 
17,254 
(1,662 )
100,853 
121,352 

$

$

$

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

54 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CUTERA, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS 
(in thousands, except per share data) 

2010

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008

Net revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

  $

53,274   $
23,058 
30,216 

53,682   $
21,759 
31,923 

Operating expenses: 

Sales and marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Litigation settlement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Loss from operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Interest and other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Other-than-temporary impairments of long-term investments . . . . . .  
Loss before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Provision (benefit) for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Net loss per share: 

Basic and diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Weighted-average number of shares used in per share calculations:  
Basic and diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

$

$

83,379
32,358 
51,021 

35,354 
7,550 
11,270 
— 
54,174 
(3,153)
3,046 
(3,554)
(3,661)
(792)
(2,869)

24,735 
7,004 
9,576 
— 
41,315 
(11,099) 
583 
— 
(10,516) 
2 
(10,518)  $

24,286 
6,810 
10,320 
850 
42,266 
(10,343) 
1,572 
— 
(8,771) 
8,908 
(17,679)  $

(0.78)  $

(1.33)  $

(0.22)

13,540 

13,279 

12,770 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

55 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CUTERA, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 
(in thousands, except share amounts) 

Common Stock 

Shares 

  Amount

Additional
Paid-in 
Capital 

Deferred 
Stock-Based
Compensation

Retained
Earnings

  Accumulated 

Other 
Comprehensive 
Income (loss) 

Total 
Stockholders’
Equity 

Balance at December 31, 

2007 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Issuance of common stock 
for employee purchase 
plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Exercise of stock options. . . 
Issuance of common stock 

in settlement of restricted 
stock units, net of shares 
withheld for employee 
taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Share-based compensation 
expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Tax benefit from exercises 
of stock-based payment 
awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Components of other 

comprehensive loss: 

Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other comprehensive 
income, net of tax 
of $230 . . . . . . . . . 
Comprehensive 

loss . . . . . . . . 

Balance at December 31, 

2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Issuance of common stock 
for employee purchase 
plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Exercise of stock options. . . 
Issuance of common stock 

in settlement of restricted 
stock units, net of shares 
withheld for employee 
taxes, and stock 
awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Share-based compensation 
expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Tax benefit from exercises 
of stock-based payment 
awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Change in accounting 

principle (see Note 1) . . . 

Components of other 

comprehensive loss: 

Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other comprehensive 
income, net of full 
valuation allowance 
on tax effect . . . . . . 
Comprehensive 

loss . . . . . . . . 

Balance at December 31, 

2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

  12,738,449 

50,693 
8,449 

8,444 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

13 

— 
— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

74,871 

— 

34,279 

190  

109,353

464 
45 

(51) 

5,220 

(231) 

— 

— 

— 

— 
— 

— 

— 

— 

— 
— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

(2,869) 

— 

— 

— 

— 

—  
—  

—  

—  

—  

—  

177  

—  

464
45

(51)

5,220

(231)

(2,869)

177

(2,692)

  12,806,035  $ 

13  $

80,318  $

—  $

31,410  $ 

367   $

112,108

59,365 
527,721 

43,042 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 
— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

326 
291 

(32) 

4,236 

109 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 
— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 
— 

— 

— 

— 

—  
—  

—  

—  

—  

3,523 

(3,523 ) 

326
291

(32)

4,236

109

—

— 

(17,679) 

—  

(17,679)

— 

— 

— 

— 

1,494  

—  

1,494

(16,185)

  13,436,163  $ 

13  $

85,248  $

—  $

17,254  $ 

(1,662 )  $

100,853

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

56 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CUTERA, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 
(continued) 

Common Stock 

Shares 

  Amount

Additional
Paid-in 
Capital 

Deferred 
Stock-Based
Compensation

Retained
Earnings

Other 
Comprehensive 
Income (loss) 

Total 
Stockholders’
Equity 

  Accumulated 

  13,436,163  $ 

13  $

85,248  $

—  $

17,254  $ 

(1,662)  $

100,853 

43,859 

90,362 

59,329 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

1 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

306 

337 

(126) 

4,650 

8 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

(10,518) 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

(94) 

— 

306 

338 

(126)

4,650 

8 

(10,518)

(94)

(10,612)

  13,629,713  $ 

14  $

90,423  $

—  $

6,736  $ 

(1,756)  $

95,417 

Balance at December 31, 

2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Issuance of common stock 
for employee purchase 
plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Exercise of stock 

options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Issuance of common stock 

in settlement of 
restricted stock units, net 
of shares withheld for 
employee taxes, and 
stock awards . . . . . . . . . . 
Share-based compensation 
expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Tax benefit from exercises 
of stock-based payment 
awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Components of other 

comprehensive loss: 

Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other comprehensive 
income, net of full 
valuation allowance 
on tax effect . . . . . . 
Comprehensive 
loss . . . . . . . . 

Balance at December 31, 

2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

57 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CUTERA, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 
(in thousands) 

Cash flows from operating activities: 

Net loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) 

operating activities: 
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Tax benefit (deficit) from stock-based compensation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Excess tax benefit related to stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Provision for excess and obsolete inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other-than-temporary impairments of long-term investments . . . . . . . . . 
Change in allowance for doubtful accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Change in deferred tax asset net of valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Gain on sale of marketable and long term investments, net . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Changes in assets and liabilities: 

Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Accrued liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred rent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Income tax liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008

2010

$ (10,518)  $ (17,679)  $ (2,869)

4,650 
8 
(8) 
717 
235 
— 
(122) 
(116) 
(74) 
— 

(759) 
(275) 
2,314 
215 
(2,646) 
(200) 
(1,208) 
(272) 
(8,059) 

4,236 
109 
(23) 
860 
611 
— 
525 
  10,512 
(103) 
— 

1,940 
2,908 
1,014 
(609) 
42 
(62) 
(3,537) 
(703) 
41 

5,220 
(231)
(44)
904 
409 
3,554 
52 
(1,892)
(6)
6 

4,848 
(2,803)
1,354 
(660)
(4,739)
74 
1,101 
62 
4,340 

Cash flows from investing activities: 

Acquisition of property and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Proceeds from sales of marketable and long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . 
Proceeds from maturities of marketable investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Purchase of marketable and long-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Cash flows from financing activities: 

Proceeds from exercise of stock options and employee stock purchase 
plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Excess tax benefit related to stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net cash provided by financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Supplemental and non-cash disclosure of cash flow information: 

Cash paid (received) for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

(275) 
42,830 
42,505 
(87,837) 
(2,777) 

(154) 
  27,914 
  11,535 
  (53,655) 
  (14,360) 

(703)
  55,104 
  30,065 
  (63,822)
  20,644 

518 
8 
526 
(10,310) 
22,829 
$ 12,519 

585 
23 
608 
  (13,711) 
  36,540 
$  22,829 

458 
44 
502 
  25,486 
  11,054 
$ 36,540 

$

272 

$ 

(578)  $

2,098 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

58 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CUTERA, INC. 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

NOTE 1—SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

Description of Operations and Principles of Consolidation. 

Cutera, Inc. (Cutera or the Company) is a global provider of laser and light-based aesthetic systems for practitioners 
worldwide. The Company designs, develops, manufactures, and markets the CoolGlide, Xeo, Solera, GenesisPlus and 
Excel  V  (introduced  in  2011)  product  platforms  for  use  by  physicians  and  other  qualified  practitioners  to  allow  its 
customers  to  offer  safe  and  effective  aesthetic  treatments  to  their  customers.  The  Xeo  and  Solera  platforms  offer 
multiple hand pieces and applications, which allow customers to upgrade their systems (Upgrade revenue). In addition 
to  systems  and  upgrade  revenue,  the  Company  generates  revenue  from  the  sale  of  post  warranty  service  contracts, 
providing services for products that are out of warranty, Titan hand piece refills, and dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals. 

Headquartered  in  Brisbane,  California,  the  Company  has  wholly-owned  subsidiaries  in  Australia,  Canada,  France, 
Japan, Spain, Switzerland and United Kingdom that market, sell and service its products outside of the United States. 
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All inter-company 
transactions and balances have been eliminated. 

Use of Estimates. 

The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in 
the United States of America (GAAP) requires the Company’s management to make estimates and assumptions that 
affect the amounts reported and disclosed in the financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could 
differ  materially  from  those  estimates.  On  an  ongoing  basis,  the  Company  evaluates  their  estimates,  including  those 
related  to  warranty  obligation,  sales  commission,  accounts  receivable  and  sales  allowances,  fair  values  of  long-term 
investments, fair values of acquired intangible assets, useful lives of intangible assets and property and equipment, fair 
values of options to purchase the Company’s common stock, recoverability of deferred tax assets, and effective income 
tax rates, among others. Management bases their estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions 
that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values 
of assets and liabilities. 

Cash, Cash Equivalents, Marketable Investments, and Long-Term Investments. 

The Company invests its cash primarily in money market funds and in highly liquid debt instruments of U.S. federal 
and municipal governments and their agencies. All highly liquid investments with stated maturities of three months or 
less  from  date  of  purchase  are  classified  as  cash  equivalents;  all  highly  liquid  investments  with  stated  maturities  of 
greater  than  three  months  are  classified  as  marketable  investments.  The  majority  of  the  Company’s  cash  and 
investments are held in U.S. banks and its foreign subsidiaries maintain a limited amount of cash in their local banks to 
cover their short term operating expenses. 

The  Company  determines  the  appropriate  classification  of  its  investments  in  marketable  securities  at  the  time  of 
purchase and re-evaluates such designation at each balance sheet date. The Company’s marketable securities have been 
classified and accounted for as available-for-sale. The Company may, or may not, hold securities with stated maturities 
greater  than  12  months  until  maturity.  In  response  to  changes  in  the  availability  of  and  the  yield  on  alternative 
investments as well as liquidity requirements, it occasionally sells these securities prior to their stated maturities. As 
these securities are viewed by the Company as available to support current operations, based on the provisions of the 
Financial  Accounting  Standards  Board  Accounting  Standards  Codification  (ASC)  topic  210,  subtopic  10,  securities 
with  maturities  beyond  12  months  (such  as  variable  rate  demand  notes)  are  classified  as  current  assets  under  the 
caption marketable investments in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. These securities are carried at fair 
value,  with  the  unrealized  gains  and  losses  reported  as  a  component  of  stockholders’  equity.  Any  realized  gains  or 
losses on the sale of marketable securities are determined on a specific identification method, and such gains and losses 
are reflected as a component of interest and other income, net. 

59 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Company holds a variety of interest bearing auction rate securities (ARS) that represent investments in pools of 
student  loan  assets  issued  by  the  Federal  Family  Education  Loan  Program  (FELP).  At  the  time  of  acquisition,  the 
majority  of  ARS  investments  were  intended  to  provide  liquidity  via  an  auction  process  that  resets  the  applicable 
interest rate at predetermined calendar intervals, allowing investors to either roll over their holdings or gain immediate 
liquidity by selling such interests at par. Since February 2008, uncertainties in the credit markets affected the majority 
of  ARS  investments  and  auctions  for  the  Company’s  investments  in  these  securities  have  failed  to  settle  on  their 
respective settlement dates. However, since 2009 $5.1 million of ARS were redeemed at full par value. Maturity dates 
for the ARS investments in the Company’s portfolio range from 2028 to 2043. 

As of December 31, 2010, the Company had $6.8 million of ARS classified as long-term investments. The Company 
has classified its ARS investment balance as long-term investments in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet 
because  of  the  Company’s  belief  that  it  could  take  more  than  one  year  before  they  are  readily  marketable.  The 
Company’s ARS have been classified and accounted for as available-for-sale. These securities are carried at fair value 
with the unrealized gains and losses reported as a component of stockholders’ equity. The estimated fair value of the 
Company’s ARS investments was $6.8 million at December 31, 2010 and $7.4 million at December 31, 2009. 

Fair Value Measurements. 

Fair  value  is  defined  as  the  price  that  would  be  received  to  sell  an  asset  or  paid  to  transfer  a  liability  in  an  orderly 
transaction  between  market  participants  at  the  measurement  date  In  determining  fair  value,  the  Company  utilizes 
valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to the 
extent possible  as  well  as  considers  counterparty  credit  risk  in  its  assessment  of fair value.  Carrying  amounts of  the 
Company’s  financial  instruments,  including  cash  equivalents,  marketable  investments,  accounts  receivable,  accounts 
payable and accrued liabilities, approximate their fair values as of the balance sheet dates because of their generally 
short maturities. 

The  fair  value  hierarchy  distinguishes  between  (1)  market  participant  assumptions  developed  based  on  market  data 
obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity’s own assumptions about market participant 
assumptions  developed  based  on  the  best  information  available  in  the  circumstances  (unobservable  inputs).  The  fair 
value hierarchy  consists  of  three broad  levels,  which  gives  the  highest priority  to  unadjusted  quoted  prices  in  active 
markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three 
levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below: 

•  Level  1:  Quoted  prices  (unadjusted)  in  active  markets  that  are  accessible  at  the  measurement  date  for 

assets or liabilities. 

•  Level 2: Directly or indirectly observable inputs as of the reporting date through correlation with market 
data,  including  quoted  prices  for  similar  assets  and  liabilities  in  active  markets  and  quoted  prices  in 
markets  that  are  not  active.  Level  2  also  includes  assets  and  liabilities  that  are  valued  using  models  or 
other pricing methodologies that do not require significant judgment since the input assumptions used in 
the models, such as interest rates and volatility factors, are corroborated by readily observable data from 
actively quoted markets for substantially the full term of the financial instrument. 

•  Level  3:  Unobservable  inputs  that  are  supported  by  little  or  no  market  activity  and  reflect  the  use  of 
significant management judgment. These values are generally determined using pricing models for which 
the assumptions utilize management’s estimates of market participant assumptions. 

Impairment of Marketable Investments and ARS Securities. 

The Company reviews its marketable and long term investments for impairment on a quarterly basis. If it concludes 
that  any  of  these  investments  are  impaired,  it  determines  whether  such  impairment  is  other-than-temporary.  Factors 
that the Company considers to make such determination include the duration and severity of the impairment, the reason 
for the decline in value and the potential recovery period, and its intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not that 
it will be required to sell, the investment before recovery. 

60 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Beginning April 1, 2009, if an entity intends to sell, or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell, an 
impaired debt security prior to recovery of its cost basis, the security is other-than-temporarily impaired and the full 
amount of the impairment is required to be recognized as a loss through earnings. Otherwise, losses on securities which 
are other-than-temporarily impaired are separated into: 

(iii) the portion of loss which represents the credit loss; or 
(iv)  the portion which is due to other factors. 

The credit loss portion is recognized as a loss through earnings while the loss due to other factors is recognized in other 
comprehensive  income  (loss),  net  of  taxes  and  related  amortization.  At  December  31,  2010,  the  Company  had 
approximately $8.3 million of par value ARS investments on which with it had recognized approximately $1.5 million 
in unrealized other-than-temporary losses. Given the Company believed that such losses were not credit related, it has 
included them in accumulated comprehensive loss. 

Concentration of Credit Risk and Other Risks and Uncertainties. 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of risk consist principally of cash, cash 
equivalents, marketable investments and accounts receivable. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents are primarily 
invested in deposits and money market accounts with two major banks in the United States. In addition, the Company 
has operating cash balances in banks in each of the international locations in which it operates. Deposits in these banks 
may  exceed  the  amount  of  insurance  provided  on  such  deposits,  if  any.  Management  believes  that  these  financial 
institutions  are  financially  sound  and,  accordingly,  believes  that  minimal  credit  risk  exists.  The  Company  has  not 
experienced any losses on its deposits of cash and cash equivalents. Accounts receivable are typically unsecured and 
are  derived  from  revenue  earned  from  worldwide  customers.  The  Company  performs  credit  evaluations  of  its 
customers  and  maintains  reserves  for  potential  credit  losses.  Concentrations  of  accounts  receivable  balances  are 
presented in Note 3 and segment, geographic and major customer information is presented in Note 10. 

The  Company  invests  in  debt  instruments—including  bonds  and  ARS—of  the  U.S.  Government,  its  agencies  and 
municipalities.  In  addition,  starting  from  2010,  the  Company  has  invested  in  other  high  grade  investments  such  as 
commercial paper and corporate bonds. By policy, the Company restricts its exposure to any single issuer by imposing 
concentration  limits.  To  minimize  the  exposure  due  to  adverse  shifts  in  interest  rates,  the  Company  maintains 
investments  at  an  average  maturity  (interest  reset  date  for  auction-rate  securities  and  variable  rate  demand  notes)  of 
generally less than eighteen months. 

The Company is subject to risks common to companies in the medical device industry, including, but not limited to, 
new  technology  innovations,  dependence  on  key  personnel,  dependence  on  key  suppliers,  protection  of  proprietary 
technology,  product  liability  and  compliance  with  government  regulations.  To  continue  profitable  operations,  the 
Company must continue to successfully design, develop, acquire, manufacture and market its products. There can be 
no assurance that current or recently acquired products will continue to be accepted in the marketplace. Nor can there 
be any assurance that any future products can be developed or manufactured at an acceptable cost and with appropriate 
performance characteristics, or that such products will be successfully marketed, if at all. These factors could have a 
material adverse effect on the Company’s future financial results and cash flows. 

Future  products  developed  or  acquired  by  the  Company  may  require  additional  approvals  from  the  Food  and  Drug 
Administration  or  international  regulatory  agencies  prior  to  commercial  sales.  There  can  be  no  assurance  that  the 
Company’s  products  will  continue  to  meet  the  necessary  regulatory  requirements.  If  the  Company  was  denied  such 
approvals or such approvals were delayed, it may have a materially adverse impact on the Company. 

Inventories. 

Inventories  are  stated  at  the  lower  of  cost  or  market,  cost  being  determined  on  a  standard  cost  basis  (which 
approximates actual cost on a first-in, first-out basis) and market being determined as the lower of replacement cost or 
net realizable value. 

The Company includes demonstration units within inventories. Demonstration units are carried at cost and amortized 
over their estimated economic life of two years. Amortization expense related to demonstration units is recorded in cost 
of  revenue  or  in  the  respective  operating  expense  line  based  on  which  function  and  purpose  it  is  being  used  for. 

61 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
Proceeds from the sale of demonstration units are recorded as revenue and all costs incurred to refurbish the systems 
prior to sale are charged to cost of revenue. 

Property and Equipment. 

Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the 
related assets, which is generally three years. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed using the straight-
line method over the shorter of the remaining lease term or the estimated useful life of the related assets. Upon sale or 
retirement  of  assets,  the  costs  and  related  accumulated  depreciation  and  amortization  are  removed  from  the  balance 
sheet  and  the  resulting  gain  or  loss  is  reflected  in  operating  expenses.  Maintenance  and  repairs  are  charged  to 
operations as incurred. 

Intangible Assets. 

Purchased  technology  sublicense  and  other  intangible  assets  are  presented  at  cost,  net  of  accumulated  amortization. 
The technology licenses are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their expected useful life of 9-10 years. and 
the other intangibles are being amortized over their expected useful life of two years. 

Impairment of Long-lived Assets. 

The  Company  reviews  long-lived  assets,  including  property  and  equipment,  and  intangible  assets,  for  impairment 
whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be fully 
recoverable.  The  Company  would  recognize  an  impairment  loss  when  estimated  undiscounted  future  cash  flows 
expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition is less than its carrying amount. Impairment, if 
any,  is  measured  as  the  amount  by  which  the  carrying  amount  of  a  long-lived  asset  exceeds  its  fair  value.  Through 
December 31, 2010, there have been no such impairments. 

Warranty Obligations. 

The Company historically provided a standard one-year or two-year warranty coverage on its systems. Beginning in 
September 2009, the Company changed its warranty policy to a one-year standard warranty on all systems. Warranty 
coverage  provided  is  for  labor  and  parts  necessary  to  repair  the  systems  during  the  warranty  period.  The  Company 
accounts  for  the  estimated  warranty  cost  of  the  standard  warranty  coverage  as  a  charge  to  costs  of  revenue  when 
revenue  is  recognized.  The  estimated  warranty  cost  is  based  on  historical  product  performance.  To  determine  the 
estimated warranty reserve, the Company utilizes actual service records to calculate the average service expense per 
system  and  applies  this  to  the  equivalent  number  of  units  exposed  under  warranty.  The  Company  updates  these 
estimated charges every quarter.  

Revenue Recognition. 

Product, Upgrade, Titan hand piece refill, and Dermal filler and cosmeceutical revenue is recognized when title and 
risk of ownership has been transferred, provided that: 

•  Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; 
•  The price is fixed or determinable; 
•  Delivery has occurred or services have been rendered; and 
•  Collectability is reasonably assured. 

Transfer  of  title  and  risk  of  ownership  occurs  when  the  product  is  shipped  to  the  customer  or  when  the  customer 
receives the product, depending on the nature of the arrangement. Revenue is recorded net of customer and distributor 
discounts. For sales transactions when collectability is not reasonably assured, the Company recognizes revenue upon 
receipt of cash payment. Sales to customers and distributors do not include any return or exchange rights. In addition 
the Company’s distributor agreements obligate the distributor to pay the Company for the sale regardless of whether 
the  distributor  is  able  to  resell  the  product.  Shipping  and  handling  charges  are  invoiced  to  customers  based  on  the 
amount of products sold. Shipping and handling fees are recorded as revenue and the related expense as a component 
of cost of revenue. 

62 

 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
 
The  Company  also  offers  customers  extended  service  contracts.  Revenue  under  service  contracts  is  recognized  on  a 
straight-line basis over the period of the applicable service contract. Service revenue, from customers whose systems 
are  not  under  a  service  contact,  is  recognized  as  the  services  are  provided.  Service  revenue  for  the  years  ended 
December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008 was $13.2 million, $13.2 million, and $11.4 million, respectively. 

Shipping and Handling Costs. 

Amounts charged to customers and costs incurred by the Company related to shipping and handling are included in net 
sales and cost of goods sold, respectively.  

Research and Development Expenditures. 

Costs  related  to  research,  design,  development  and  testing  of  products  are  charged  to  research  and  development 
expense as incurred. Expenses incurred  primarily relate to employees, facilities,  material, third party contractors and 
clinical and regulatory fees. 

Advertising Costs. 

Advertising  costs  are  included  as  part  of  sales  and  marketing  expense  and  are  expensed  as  incurred.  Advertising 
expenses were $947,000 in 2010, $891,000 in 2009, and $1.9 million in 2008. 

Stock-based Compensation. 

The  Company  elected  to  use  the  Black-Scholes-Merton  (BSM)  pricing  model  to  determine  the  fair  value  of  stock 
options on the dates of grant. Restricted stock units (RSUs) and stock awards are measured based on the fair market 
values  of  the  underlying  stock  on  the  dates  of  grant.  Shares  are  issued  on  the  vesting  dates,  net  of  the  statutory 
withholding  requirements  to  be  paid  by  the  Company  on  behalf  of  its  employees.  As  a  result,  the  actual  number  of 
shares  issued  will  be  fewer  than  the  actual  number  of  RSUs  outstanding.  Furthermore,  the  Company  records  the 
liability  for  withholding  amounts  to  be  paid  by  us  as  a  reduction  to  additional  paid-in  capital  when  the  shares  are 
issued. Also, the Company recognizes stock-based compensation using the straight-line method. 

The Company includes as part of cash flows from financing activities the benefits of tax deductions in excess of the 
tax-effected compensation of the related stock-based awards for options exercised and RSUs vested during the period. 
The amount of cash received from the exercise of stock options and employee stock purchases was $518,000 in 2010, 
$585,000  in  2009,  and  $458,000  in  2008,  and  the  total  direct  tax  benefit  (deficit)  realized,  including  the  excess  tax 
benefit (deficit), from stock-based award activity was $8,000 in 2010, $109,000 in 2009, and ($231,000) in 2008. The 
Company elected to account for the indirect effects of stock-based awards—primarily  the research and development 
tax credit—through the Statement of Operations. 

Income Taxes. 

The Company recognizes income taxes under the liability method. The Company recognizes deferred income taxes for 
differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities at enacted statutory tax rates in effect 
for the years in which differences are expected to reverse. The Company recognizes the effect on deferred taxes of a 
change  in  tax  rates  in  income  in  the  period  that  includes  the  enactment  date.  The  Company  has  determined  that  its 
future taxable income will be sufficient to recover all of the deferred tax assets. However, should there be a change in 
their ability to recover the deferred tax assets, the Company could be required to record a valuation allowance against 
its  deferred  tax  assets.  This  would  result  in  an  increase  to  the  Company’s  tax  provision  in  the  period  in  which  they 
determined that the recovery was not probable. 

The measurement of deferred taxes often involves an exercise of judgment related to the computation and realization of 
tax  basis.  The  deferred  tax  assets  and  liabilities  reflect  management’s  assessment  that  tax  positions  taken,  and  the 
resulting tax basis, are more likely than not to be sustained if they are audited by taxing authorities. Also, assessing tax 
rates  that  the  Company  expects  to  apply  and  determining  the  years  when  the  temporary  differences  are  expected  to 
affect taxable income requires judgment about the future apportionment of our income among the states in which the 
Company  operates.  These  matters,  and  others,  involve  the  exercise  of  significant  judgment.  Any  changes  in  our 

63 

  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
practices or judgments involved in the measurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities could materially impact our 
financial condition or results of operations. 

Valuation  allowances  are  established  when  necessary  to  reduce  deferred  income  tax  assets  to  amounts  that  the 
Company believes are more likely than not to be recovered. The Company evaluates its deferred tax assets quarterly to 
determine  whether  adjustments  to  our  valuation  allowance  are  appropriate.  In  making  this  evaluation,  the  Company 
relies on its recent history of pre-tax earnings, estimated timing of future deductions and benefits represented by the 
deferred  tax  assets,  and  its  forecasts  of  future  earnings,  the  latter  two  of  which  involve  the  exercise  of  significant 
judgment. As of September 30, 2009, the Company could not sustain a conclusion that it was more likely than not that 
the Company would realize any of its deferred tax assets resulting from its cumulative losses reported in the recent past 
as  well  as  other  factors.  Consequently,  the  Company  established  a  valuation  allowance  against  those  deferred  tax 
assets.  The  Company  also  performed  this  evaluation  as  of  December  31,  2010,  and  determined  the  full  valuation 
allowance was still required. 

The  Company  establishes  reserves  for  uncertain  tax  positions  in  accordance  with  the  Income  Taxes  subtopic  of  the 
ASC.  The  subtopic  prescribes  the  minimum  recognition  threshold  a  tax  position  is  required  to  meet  before  being 
recognized  in the  financial  statements.  Additionally,  the  subtopic provides  guidance on derecognition,  measurement, 
classification, interest and penalties, and transition of uncertain tax positions. The impact of an uncertain income tax 
position on income tax expense must be recognized at the largest amount that is more-likely-than-not to be sustained. 
An uncertain income tax position will not be recognized if it has less than a 50% likelihood of being sustained. The 
Company  has  provided  taxes  and  related  interest  and  penalties  due  for  potential  adjustments  that  may  result  from 
examinations of open U.S. Federal, state and foreign tax years. If the Company ultimately determines that payment of 
these amounts are not more-likely-than-not, the Company will reverse the liability and recognize a tax benefit during 
the  period  in  which  the  Company  makes  the  determination.  The  Company  will  record  an  additional  charge  in  the 
Company’s provision for taxes in the period in which the Company determines that the recorded tax liability is less 
than the Company expects the ultimate assessment to be. 

Comprehensive Income (loss). 

Comprehensive  income  (loss)  generally  represents  all  changes  in  stockholders’  equity  except  those  resulting  from 
investments or contributions by stockholders. The Company’s unrealized gains and losses on marketable investments 
represent the only component of other comprehensive income that is excluded from net income (loss). 

On April 1, 2009, the Company adopted updates issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) to the 
recognition  and  presentation  of  other-than-temporary  impairments.  A  cumulative  effect  adjustment  was  required  to 
accumulated earnings and a corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to reclassify 
the non-credit portion of previously other-than-temporarily impaired securities which were held at the beginning of the 
period of adoption and for which the Company does not intend to sell and it is more likely than not that the Company 
will  not  be  required  to  sell  such  securities  before  recovery  of  the  amortized  cost  basis.  As  a  result  of  the 
implementation  of  this  pronouncement,  the  Company  reclassified  the  cumulative  effect  of  the  non-credit  portion  of 
previously recognized other-than-temporarily impaired adjustments of $3.5 million by increasing accumulated earnings 
and decreasing accumulated other comprehensive loss. 

Foreign Currency. 

The  U.S.  dollar  is  the  functional  currency  of  the  Company’s  subsidiaries.  Monetary  and  non-monetary  assets  and 
liabilities are remeasured into U.S. dollars at period end and historical exchange rates, respectively. Sales and operating 
expenses are remeasured at average exchange rates in effect during each period, except for those expenses related to 
non-monetary assets which are remeasured at historical exchange rates. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency 
transactions  are  included  in  net  income  (loss)  and  are  insignificant  for  each  of  the  three  years  ended  December  31, 
2010. The effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents was insignificant for each of the three years 
presented in the period ended December 31, 2010. 

64 

  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
New Accounting Standards. 

In  October  2009,  the  FASB  amended  the  accounting  standards  for  revenue  recognition  to  remove  tangible  products 
containing software components and non-software components that function together to deliver the product’s essential 
functionality from the scope of the software revenue recognition guidance. The software revenue recognition guidance 
was  issued  to address factors  that  entities  should  consider  when  determining whether  the  software  and non-software 
components  of  a  product  function  together  to  deliver  the  product’s  essential  functionality.  The  software  revenue 
recognition  updates  to  the  Codification  will  allow  revenue  arrangements  in  which  software  and  non-software 
components deliver together a product’s essential functionality to follow the multiple-deliverable revenue recognition 
criteria as opposed to the criteria applicable to software revenue recognition. 

In addition, the FASB also amended the accounting standards for multiple deliverable revenue arrangements to: 

• 

• 

• 

provide updated guidance on whether multiple deliverables exist, how the deliverables in an arrangement 
should be separated, and how the consideration should be allocated; 
require an entity to allocate revenue in an arrangement using estimated selling price (ESP) of deliverables 
if  a  vendor  does  not  first  have  vendor-specific  objective  evidence  (VSOE)  of  selling  price  or  secondly 
does not have third-party evidence (TPE) of selling price; and 
eliminate the use of the residual method and require an entity to allocate revenue using the relative selling 
price method. 

Multiple-element  arrangements-  A  multiple-element  arrangement  includes  the  sale  of  one  or  more  tangible  product 
offerings with one or more associated services offerings, each of which are individually considered separate units of 
accounting.  The  determination  of  the  Company’s  units  of  accounting  did  not  change  with  the  adoption  of  the  new 
revenue  recognition  guidance.  and  as  such  the  Company  allocates  revenue  to  each  element  in  a  multiple-element 
arrangement based upon the relative selling price of each deliverable. When applying the relative selling price method, 
the  Company  determines  the  selling  price  for  each  deliverable  using  VSOE  of  selling  price,  if  it  exists,  or  TPE  of 
selling price. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exist for a deliverable, the Company uses its best estimate of 
selling  price  for  that  deliverable.  Revenue  allocated  to  each  element  is  then  recognized  when  the  other  revenue 
recognition criteria are met for each element. 

Both the above mentioned updates are effective for the Company from January 1, 2011 and the Company has elected to 
apply them prospectively to new or materially modified revenue arrangements after its effective date. The Company 
does not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material impact on its Consolidated Financial Statements and 
results of operations. 

65 

 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 2—INVESTMENT SECURITIES: 

The following tables summarize cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and long term investments (in millions): 

Cash and cash equivalents: 

Cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Cash equivalents: 

Money market funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Commercial paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Marketable securities: 

U.S. government notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
U.S. government agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Municipal securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Commercial Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Corporate debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
ARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total marketable securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

December 31, 

2010 

2009 

$

1,989  

$

3,483 

8,330  
2,200  
12,519  

2,070  
24,087  
15,011  
11,465  
24,851  
—  
77,484  

19,346 
— 
22,829 

— 
— 
76,680 
— 
— 
100 
76,780 

Long-term investments in ARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and long term 

investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

6,784  

7,275 

$

96,787  

$

106,884 

66 

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
The  following  table  summarizes  unrealized  gains  and  losses  related  to  our  marketable  investments  and  long  term 
investments, both designated as available-for-sale (in thousands): 

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Marketable investments 

U.S. government notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
U.S. government agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Municipal securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Commercial Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Corporate debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total marketable securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

 Long-term investments in ARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities 

and long term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

December 31, 2009 
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Marketable investments: 

Municipal securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total marketable investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term investments in ARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities 
and long term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amortized
Cost 
12,519 

$

Gross 
Unrealized
Gains 

Gross 
Unrealized 
Losses 

Fair 
Market 
Value 

$

— 

$ 

— 

$

12,519 

2,069 
24,088 
15,029 
11,459 
24,825 
77,470 

8,325 

1 
17 
2 
7 
55 
82 

— 

— 
(18) 
(20) 
(1) 
(29) 
(68) 

2,070 
24,087 
15,011 
11,465 
24,851 
77,484 

(1,541) 

6,784 

$

98,314 

$

82 

$ 

(1,609)  $

96,787 

Amortized
 Cost 

Gross  
Unrealized
 Gains 

Gross  
Unrealized 
 Losses 

Fair 
 Market 
 Value 

$

22,829 

$

— 

$ 

— 

$

22,829

76,512 
100 
76,612 
8,875 

182 
— 
182 
— 

(14) 
— 
(14) 
(1,600) 

76,680
100
76,780
7,275

$

108,316 

$

182 

$ 

(1,614)  $

106,884

The  following  table  summarizes  the  estimated  fair  value  of  our  marketable  investments  and  long  term  investments 
classified by the contractual maturity date of the security as of December 31, 2010 (in thousands): 

Due in less than one year (fiscal year 2011) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Due in 1 to 3 years (fiscal year 2012- 2013) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Due in 3 to 5 years (fiscal year 2014-2015) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Due in 5 to 10 years (fiscal year 2016-2021) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Due in greater than 10 years (fiscal year 2022 and beyond). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     

Amount 

41,796 
35,688 
— 
— 
6,784 
84,268 

$

$

67 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements 

As of December 31, 2010, financial assets measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis and classified 
under the appropriate level of the fair value hierarchy as described above was as follows (in thousands): 

Cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Short term marketable investments: 

Available-for-sale securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Long-term investments: 

Available-for-sale ARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total assets at fair value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Total 

$

10,531 

$

— 

$ 

— 

$

10,531 

— 

77,484 

— 

77,484 

— 
10,531 

$

— 
77,484 

$ 

6,784 
6,784 

$

6,784 
94,799 

$

The Company’s Level 1 financial assets are money market funds and highly liquid debt instruments of U.S. federal and 
municipal  governments  and  their  agencies  with  stated  maturities  of  three  months  or  less  from  the  date  of  purchase, 
whose fair values are based on quoted market prices. The Company’s Level 2 financial assets are highly liquid debt 
instruments of U.S. federal and municipal governments and their agencies with stated maturities of greater than three 
months, whose fair values are obtained from readily-available pricing sources for the identical underlying security that 
may, or may not, be actively traded. 

At December 31, 2010, observable market information was not available to determine the fair value of the Company’s 
ARS investments. Therefore, the fair value is based on broker-provided valuation models that relied on Level 3 inputs 
including those that are based on expected cash flow streams and collateral values, assessments of counterparty credit 
quality, default risk underlying the security, market discount rates and overall capital market liquidity. The valuation of 
the  Company’s  ARS  investment  portfolio  is  subject  to  uncertainties  that  are  difficult  to  predict.  Factors  that  may 
impact the valuations in the future include changes to credit ratings of the securities, as well as to the underlying assets 
supporting  those  securities,  rates  of  default  of  the  underlying  assets,  underlying  collateral  value,  discount  rates, 
counterparty  risk  and  ongoing  strength  and  quality  of  market  credit  and  liquidity.  These  financial  instruments  are 
classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. 

The  table  presented  below  summarizes  the  change  in  carrying  value  associated  with  Level  3  financial  assets,  which 
represents the Company’s investment in ARS and classified as long-term investments, for the year ended December 31, 
2010 (in thousands): 

Balance at December 31, 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Total gains or losses (realized or unrealized) 

$ 

Included in earnings (or changes in net assets) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Included in other comprehensive income (loss). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Purchases, issuance, and settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Balance at December 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     

$ 

7,275 

— 
(26)
(465)
— 
6,784 

  December 31, 2010 

NOTE 3—BALANCE SHEET DETAIL: 

Accounts Receivable: 

Trade  accounts  receivable  are  recorded at  the  invoiced  amount  and do not bear interest.  The  allowance  for doubtful 
accounts is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses existing in accounts receivable and is 
based on historical write-off experience and any specific customer issues that have been identified. Account balances 
are charged off against the allowance when it is probable the receivable will not be recovered. The Company had one 
customer  who  accounted  for  10%  at  December  31,  2010  and  29%  at  December  31,  2009  of  the  Company’s  total 
accounts receivable balance. 

68 

  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
Inventories: 

Inventories consist of the following (in thousands): 

Raw materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Finished goods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

$ 

$ 

December 31, 

2010 

2009 

4,204 
2,243 
6,447 

$

$

3,775 
2,633 
6,408 

Property and Equipment, net: 

Property and equipment, net consists of the following (in thousands): 

Leasehold improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Office equipment and furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Machinery and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Less: Accumulated depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Property and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

December 31, 

2010 

2009 

$ 

$ 

361 
2,702 
2,688 
5,751 
(5,154) 
597 

$

$

347 
2,610 
2,519 
5,476 
(4,629)
847 

Depreciation  expense  related  to  property  and  equipment  was  $525,000  in  2010,  $664,000  in  2009,  and  $702,000  in 
2008. 

Intangible Assets: 

Intangible  assets  were  principally  comprised  of  a  patent  sublicense  acquired  from  Palomar  in  2006,  a  technology 
sublicense  acquired  in  2002  and  other  intangible  assets  acquired  in  2007.  The  components  of  intangible  assets  at 
December 31, 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands): 

Gross 
 Carrying 
 Amount 

Accumulated 
 Amortization 
 Amount 

Net 
 Amount 

December 31, 2010 
Patent sublicense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Technology sublicense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

December 31, 2009 
Patent sublicense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Technology sublicense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Other intangibles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

$

$

$

$

1,218 
538 
1,756 

1,218 
538 
20 
1,776 

$

$

$

$

656 
463 
1,119 

517 
410 
20 
947 

$

$

$

$

562 
75 
637 

701 
128 
— 
829 

Amortization expense for intangible assets was $192,000 in 2010, $196,000 in 2009, and $202,000 in 2008. 

Based on intangible assets recorded at December 31, 2010, and assuming no subsequent additions to, or impairment of 
the underlying assets, the remaining estimated annual amortization expense is expected to be as follows (in thousands): 

Year ending December 31, 
2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     

$

Amount 

192 
158 
138 
138 
11 
637 

69 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued Liabilities: 

Accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): 

December 31, 

2010 

2009 

Payroll and related expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Sales tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Royalty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Professional fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Customer deposits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Sales and marketing accruals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Litigation accrual - Telephone Consumer Protection Act (see Note 11) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

$ 

$ 

3,035 
809 
796 
475 
335 
131 
131 
482 
— 
6,194 

$

$

3,216 
748 
1,049 
476 
733 
667 
325 
884 
950 
9,048 

NOTE 4—WARRANTY AND SERVICE CONTRACTS: 

The Company has a direct field service organization in the United States. Internationally, the Company provides direct 
service support through its wholly-owned subsidiaries in Australia, Canada, France, Japan, Spain and Switzerland as 
well as through a network of distributors and third-party service providers in several other countries where it does not 
have a direct presence. The Company provides a warranty with its products, depending on the type of product. After 
the original warranty period, maintenance and support are offered on a service contract basis or on a time and materials 
basis. The Company currently provides for the estimated cost to repair or replace products under warranty at the time 
of sale. 

Warranty Accrual (in thousands): 

Balance at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add: Accruals for warranties issued during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Less: Settlements made during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred Service Contract Revenue (in thousands): 

Balance at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Add: Payments received . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Less: Revenue recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Balance at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

December 31, 

2010 

2009 

1,049 
3,061 
(3,314) 
796 

$

$

1,916 
2,059 
(2,926)
1,049 

December 31, 

2010 

8,128 
8,254 
(9,617) 
6,765 

$

$

2009 
11,665 
6,585 
(10,122)
8,128 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

Costs  incurred  under  service  contracts  amounted  to  $4.3  million  in  2010,  $4.7  million  in  2009,  and  $4.4  million  in 
2008, and are recognized as incurred. 

NOTE  5—STOCKHOLDERS’  EQUITY,  STOCK  PLANS  AND  STOCK-BASED  COMPENSATION 
EXPENSE: 

Stock Option Plans. 

As of December 31, 2010, the Company had the following stock-based employee compensation plans: 

70 

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. 

On  January 12,  2004,  the  Board  of  Directors  adopted  the  2004  Employee  Stock  Purchase  Plan.  A  total  of  200,000 
shares of common stock were reserved for issuance pursuant to the 2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Under the 
2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, or 2004 ESPP, eligible employees are permitted to purchase common stock at a 
discount through payroll deductions. The 2004 ESPP offering and purchase periods are for approximately six months. 
Shares of common stock eligible for purchase are increased on the first day of each fiscal year by an amount equal to 
the lesser of (i) 600,000 shares, (ii) 2.0% of the outstanding shares of common stock on such date or (iii) an amount as 
determined by the Board of Directors. The Company’s Board of Directors voted not to increase the shares available for 
future  grant  on  January  1,  2010  and  reserved  256,121  shares  on  January 1,  2009.  The  price  of  the  common  stock 
purchased is the lower of 85% of the fair market value of the common stock at the beginning of an offering period or at 
the end of the offering period. Under the 2004 ESPP the Company issued 43,859 shares in 2010 and 59,365 shares in 
2009. At December 31, 2010, 1,102,097 shares remained available for future issuance. 

2004 Equity Incentive Plan and 1998 Stock Plan. 

In 1998, the Company adopted the 1998 Stock Plan, or 1998 Plan, under which 4,650,000 shares of the Company’s 
common stock have been reserved for issuance to employees, directors and consultants. 

On January 12, 2004, the Board of Directors adopted the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan. A total of 1,750,000 shares of 
common stock were originally reserved for issuance pursuant to the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan. In addition, the shares 
reserved for issuance under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan included shares reserved but un-issued under the 1998 Plan 
and shares returned to the 1998 Plan as the result of termination of options or the repurchase of shares. 

Shares of common stock approved under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan was increased on the first day of each fiscal 
year, commencing in 2005, by an amount equal to the lesser of: (i) 5% of the outstanding shares on the first day of such 
year; (b) 2 million shares; or, (c) an amount determined by the Board of Directors. The Company added 636,922 shares 
to the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan on January 1, 2009. During 2009, the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan was amended to 
remove this feature beginning in 2010. 

Options granted under the 1998 Plan and 2004 Equity Incentive Plan may be incentive stock options or non-statutory 
stock options. Stock purchase rights may also be granted under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan. Incentive stock options 
may  only  be  granted  to  employees.  The  Board  of  Directors  determines  the  period  over  which  options  become 
exercisable, however, except in the case of options granted to officers, directors and consultants, options shall become 
exercisable at a rate of no less than 20% per year over five years from the date the options are granted. Options are to 
be granted at an exercise price not less than the fair market value per share on the grant date for incentive options or 
85% of fair market value for nonqualified stock options. For employees holding more than 10% of the voting rights of 
all classes of stock, the exercise price shall not be less than 110% of the fair market value per share on the grant date. 
Options granted under the Plan to employees generally become exercisable 25% on the first anniversary of the vesting 
commencement date and an additional 1/48th of the total number of shares subject to the option shares shall become 
exercisable on the last day of each calendar month thereafter until all of the shares have become exercisable. Unvested 
options  that  have  been  exercised  are  subject  to  repurchase  upon  termination  of  the  holder’s  status  as  an  employee, 
director or consultant. The contractual term of the options granted is either five, seven or ten years. 

Under the 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, in May 2010 the Company’s Board of Directors approved the grant of 37,266 
Restricted Stock Units (RSU) to non-employee members of the Board of Directors that vested immediately on the date 
of grant. In addition, the Company’s Board of Directors granted 109,025 RSUs to certain members of the Company’s 
management that vested one-third on June 1, 2010 and one-third will vest on June 1, 2011 and 2012. The Company 
measured  the  fair  market  values  of  the  underlying  stock  on  the  dates  of  grant  and  recognizes  the  share-based 
compensation expense using the straight-line method over the vesting period. 

The Company issues new shares upon the exercise of options, restricted stock units and ESPP shares. 

71 

  
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
Option Exchange Program. 

In  July  2009,  the  Company  completed  its  Option  Exchange  Program  for  its  employees  to  exchange  certain  options 
outstanding  for  new  options  to  purchase  shares  of  the  Company’s  common  stock.  As  a  result,  options  to  purchase 
864,373 shares of the Company’s common stock were cancelled and new options to purchase up to 447,841 shares of 
the Company’s common stock were issued in exchange. The new options have an exercise price per share of $8.49, the 
closing price of  the  Company’s  common  stock  as  reported on  the Nasdaq Global  Select  Market on  the date  that  the 
offer  expired  and  Option  Exchange  Program  was  completed,  are  unvested  as  of  the  grant  date,  and  subject  to  an 
additional six (6) months of vesting over and above the vesting schedule of the surrendered options. 

Given the Option Exchange Program was designed to be approximately a “value-for-value” exchange, the Company 
did not incur any significant additional non-cash compensation charges as the fair value of the replacement options was 
approximately equal to or less than the fair value of the surrendered options. The Company determined the fair value of 
stock options using the Black Scholes valuation model. 

Option Activity. 

Activity under the 1998 Plan and 2004 Equity Incentive Plan is summarized as follows: 

Options Outstanding 

Balances as of December 31, 2007 . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Additional shares reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options granted  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options cancelled or forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Restricted stock units cancelled or forfeited . . . . .    
Balances as of December 31, 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options granted(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options cancelled (expired or forfeited)(2) . . . . . . .    
Stock awards granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Restricted stock units cancelled (expired or 

forfeited) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Balances as of December 31, 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options granted(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Options cancelled (expired or 

forfeited)(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

Stock awards granted 
Restricted stock units cancelled (expired or 

forfeited) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Balances as of December 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . .    
Exercisable as of December 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . .    

Shares 
Available
For Grant 
  2,047,649 
636,922 
(888,150)   

— 
215,543 
1,125 
  2,013,089 
  (1,409,371)   

— 
  1,270,828 

(36,540)   

2,375 
  1,840,381 

(961,500)   

— 

267,274 
(146,291)   

5,583 
  1,005,447 

Weighted-
Average 
Exercise 
Price 

Number of 
Shares 
2,417,575  $ 

— 
888,150  $ 
(8,449)  $ 
(215,543)  $ 

— 

3,081,733  $ 
1,409,371  $ 
(527,721)  $ 
(1,270,828)  $ 

— 

— 

2,692,555  $ 
961,500  $ 
(90,362)  $ 

(267,274)   

— 

— 

3,296,419  $ 
1,679,268  $ 

14.22 
— 
10.77 
5.39 
18.69 
— 
12.94 
8.51 
0.55 
17.55 
— 

— 
10.87 
10.14 
3.74 

9.91 
— 

— 
10.93 
12.12 

Weighted-
Average 
Remaining 
Contractual 
Life 
(in years) 

Aggregate 
Intrinsic 
Value 
(in $ millions)(1)

4.58  $ 

6.0

5.05  $ 

1.6

4.4  $ 
3.29  $ 

1.1
1.0

(1) 

(2) 

Based on the closing stock price of the Company’s stock of $8.29 on December 31, 2010, $8.51 on December 
31, 2009 and $8.87 on December 31, 2008. 
Included  in  options  granted  and  options  cancelled  are  shares  granted  and  cancelled  in  connection  with  the 
Company’s Option Exchange Program in 2009 (see ‘Option Exchange Program’ above for more details). 

72 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The  aggregate  intrinsic  value  in  the  table  above  represents  the  total  pre-tax  intrinsic  value  (the  aggregate  difference 
between  the  Company’s  closing  stock  price  on  the  last  trading  day  of  the  fiscal  year  2010  and  the  exercise  price, 
multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option 
holders  exercised  their  options  on  December  31,  2010.  The  aggregate  intrinsic  amount  changes  based  on  the  fair 
market value of the Company’s common stock. Total intrinsic value of options exercised was $128,000 in 2010, $3.2 
million in  2009,  and  $57,000  in  2008.  The  options  outstanding  and  exercisable  at  December  31,  2010  were  in  the 
following exercise price ranges: 

Options Outstanding 

Options Exercisable 

Range of Exercise Prices 
$ 2.50–$7.73 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 8.02–$8.02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 8.49–$8.49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 8.56–$8.56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 8.66–$8.66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 8.81–$9.74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 10.24–$10.24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 10.43–$13.30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 13.54–$23.75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 24.46–$34.45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     
$ 2.50–$34.45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     

Number 
Outstanding 

332,350 
23,542 
429,753 
3,750 
725,324 
66,000 
791,000 
343,433 
449,017 
132,250 
  3,296,419 

Weighted-Average
Remaining 
Contractual Life  
(in years) 

Number 
Outstanding 

Weighted-Average
Exercise 
Price 

2.78 
3.37 
3.19 
5.56 
5.14 
4.70 
6.21 
4.24 
3.19 
2.14 
4.40 

265,932  $ 
11,511 
336,908 
1,407 
309,446 
40,188 
— 
144,836 
447,893 
121,147 
1,679,268  $ 

4.37 
8.02 
8.49 
8.56 
8.66 
9.62 
— 
11.83 
18.79 
24.96 
12.12 

As of December 31, 2009 there were 1,253,360 options that were exercisable at a weighted average exercise price of 
$12.54.  

Restricted Stock Units and Stock Awards. 

Information with respect to restricted stock units activity is as follows (in thousands): 

Number 
 of 
 Shares 

Weighted-Average 
Grant-Date Fair 
Value 

Aggregate 
Fair Value (1) 
(in thousands) 

Outstanding at December 31, 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Vested(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Outstanding at December 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

—  $
146,291  $
(73,612)  $
(5,583)  $
67,096  $

— 
10.09 
10.09  $ 
10.09 
10.09 

680(3)

(1) 
(2) 

(3) 

Represents the value of the Company’s stock on the date that the restricted stock units vest. 
The  number  of  restricted  stock  units  vested  includes  shares  that  the  Company  withheld  on  behalf  of  the 
employees to satisfy the statutory tax withholding requirements. 
On the grant date, the fair value for these vested awards was $743,000. 

Stock-Based Compensation. 

Stock-based compensation expense for stock options, restricted stock units, stock awards and ESPP shares for the year 
ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was as follows (in thousands): 

Stock options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
RSUs and Stock awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
ESPP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total share-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Tax effect on share-based compensation at the marginal tax rates . . .    
Net share-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

$

$

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008 

2010 

3,628 
927 
95 
4,650 
(1,725) 
2,925 

$ 

$ 

3,763  
360  
113  
4,236  
(1,452 ) 
2,784  

$

$

4,783 
257 
180 
5,220 
(1,788)
3,432 

73 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense by department recognized during the year ended December 31, 2010, 
2009 and 2008 was as follows (in thousands): 

Cost of revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Sales and marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
General and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    
Total share-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    

$

$

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008 

2010 

724 
1,189 
629 
2,108 
4,650 

$ 

$ 

717 
1,044 
473 
2,002 
4,236 

$

$

846 
1,657 
628 
2,089 
5,220 

As of December 31, 2010, the unrecognized compensation cost, net of expected forfeitures, was $5.5 million for stock 
options  and  stock  awards,  which  will  be  recognized  using  the  straight-  line  attribution  method  over  an  estimated 
weighted-average remaining amortization period of 2.40 years. For ESPP, the unrecognized compensation cost, net of 
expected  forfeitures,  was  $29,000,  which  will  be  recognized  using  the  straight-  line  attribution  method  over  an 
estimated weighted-average amortization period 0.33 years. 

Valuation Assumptions and Fair Value of Stock Option and ESPP Grants.  

The  Company  uses  the  Black-Scholes  option  pricing  model  to  estimate  the  fair  value  of  options  granted  under  its 
equity incentive plans and rights to acquire stock granted under its employee stock purchase plan. The Company based 
the weighted average estimated values of employee stock option grants and rights granted under the employee stock 
purchase plan, as well as the weighted average assumptions used in calculating these values, on estimates at the date of 
grant, as follows:  

2010

Stock Options
2009

2008

Stock Purchase Plan
2009 

2010

2008

Estimated fair value of grants during 

the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
Expected term (in years)(1) . . . . . . . . . . .   
Risk-free interest rate(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
Volatility(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
Dividend yield(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   

$ 

$

3.76 
3.84 
1.73%   
46%   
—%   

$

3.93 
4.23 

2.6%   
55%   
—%   

$

5.29 
4.68 

3.2%   
55%   
—%   

$ 

2.41 
0.50 

2.39 
0.50 

$

4.52 
0.50 

0.2%   
40%   
—%   

0.1%   
52%   
—%   

1.9%
51%
—%

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

The expected term represents the period during which the Company’s stock-based awards are expected to be 
outstanding. The estimated term is based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to 
the  contractual  terms  of  the  awards,  vesting  requirements,  and  expectation  of  future  employee  behavior, 
including  post-vesting  terminations.  Prior  to  2008,  the  Company  used  the  simplified  method  of  calculating 
expected life described in SAB 107, Share Based Payment, due to significant differences in the vesting and 
contractual life of current option grants compared to its historical grants, as well as limited data of historical 
exercise patterns since the Initial Public Offering (IPO) of its common stock. 
The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasury debt securities with maturities close to the expected term 
of the option as of the date of grant.  
Expected volatility is a 50%/50% blend of implied and historical volatility. The Company has determined that 
this  is  a  more  reflective  measure  of  market  conditions  and  a  better  indicator  of  expected  volatility,  than  its 
limited historical volatility since the IPO of its common stock. 
The Company has not historically issued any dividends and does not expect to do so in the foreseeable future. 

The  Company  periodically  estimates  forfeiture  rates  based  on  its  historical  experience  within  separate  groups  of 
employees and adjusts the share-based payment expense accordingly.  

74 

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 6: COMMON STOCK REPURCHASES  

Restricted Stock Unit Withholdings  

The Company issues restricted stock units as part of its equity incentive plans, which are described more fully in “Note 
5—Stockholders’ Equity, Stock Plans and Stock-Based Compensation Expense.” For the majority of restricted stock 
units granted, the number of shares issued on the date the restricted stock units vest is net of the statutory withholding 
requirements  paid  on  behalf of  the  employees.  The  Company withheld  14,283  in  2010, 3,934  in 2009,  and  4,992 in 
2008,  shares  of  common  stock  to  satisfy  its  employees’  tax  obligations  of  $126,000  in  2010,  $32,000  in  2009,  and 
$51,000  in  2008.  The  Company  paid  this  amount  in  cash  to  the  appropriate  taxing  authorities.  Although  shares 
withheld are not issued, they are treated as common stock repurchases for accounting and disclosure purposes, as they 
reduce the number of shares that would have been issued upon vesting.  

NOTE 7—INCOME TAXES:  

The  Company  files  income  tax  returns  in  the  U.S.  federal  and  various  state  and  local  jurisdictions  and  foreign 
jurisdictions. The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows (in thousands):  

2010

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008

Current: 

Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Deferred: 

Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Provision (benefit) for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

$

$

(154)  $
37 
235 
118 

(45) 
45 
(116) 
(116) 
2 

The Company’s deferred tax asset consists of the following (in thousands):  

Net operating loss(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Other accruals and reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Credits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Capital loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Accrued warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Deferred tax asset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Net deferred tax asset before valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Valuation allowance(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Net deferred tax asset after valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

(1,973)  $ 
32 
338 
(1,603) 

9,686 
871 
(46) 
10,511 
8,908 

$ 

1,009 
305 
382 
1,696 

(2,313)
(78)
(97)
(2,488)
(792)

December 31, 

2010 

2009(1) 

6,281 
5,644 
3,385 
1,488 
558 
388 
303 
63 
18,110 
146 
18,256 
(17,868) 
388 

$ 

$ 

2,403 
4,499 
4,631 
1,184 
539 
272 
401 
78 
14,007 
103 
14,110 
(13,838)
272 

$

$

$

(1) The Company revised the 2009 tax footnote to reduce deferred tax assets by approximately $1.1 million related to 
future  tax  benefits  for net  operating  losses  that  were not properly  recorded  in  the previous period. This  reduction  in 
deferred taxes was offset by a corresponding reduction in the valuation allowance, and as such had no impact to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements, earnings per share, statement of cash flows, or statement of equity for any period 
presented.  

75 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Due  to  uncertainties  surrounding  the  realization  of  U.S.  deferred  tax  assets  through  future  taxable  income,  the 
Company  has  provided  a  full  valuation  allowance  and,  therefore,  has  not  recognized  any  benefits  from  the  U.S.  net 
operating losses and other U.S. deferred tax assets. The valuation allowance balance was approximately $13.8 million, 
$1.4  million  and  $0  at  January  1,  2010,  2009  and  2008,  respectively.  Additions  to  the  valuation  allowance  were 
approximately $5.4 million, $13.1 million and $1.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, 
respectively. Deductions to the valuation allowance were approximately $1.4 million, $660,000 and $0 for the years 
ended  December  31,  2010,  2009  and  2008,  respectively.  The  valuation  allowance  balance  was  approximately  $17.9 
million, $13.8 million and $1.4 million at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  

The differences between the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to the Company’s effective tax are as follows:  

U.S. federal statutory income tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
State tax rate, net of federal benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Benefit for research and development credit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Decreases related to release of unrecognized tax benefits 

due to the lapsing of statute of limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Tax-exempt interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Meals and entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Income tax refund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Valuation allowance(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Effective tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2010 

Year Ended December 31, 
2009(1) 

2008 

35.00% 
2.81 
2.97 

2.59 
0.98 
(0.63) 
(1.13) 
(1.54) 
(38.31) 
(2.74) 
0.00% 

35.00 % 
(0.86 ) 
1.06  

0.71  
5.42  
(0.76 ) 
11.00  
(8.91 ) 
(142.18 ) 
(2.05 ) 
(101.57 )% 

35.00%
(2.38) 
11.07 

2.66 
27.85 
(3.45) 
— 
(5.65) 
(37.34) 
(6.13) 
21.63%

(1) The Company revised the 2009 tax footnote to reduce deferred tax assets by approximately $1.1 million related to 
future  tax  benefits  for net  operating  losses  that  were not properly  recorded  in  the previous period. This  reduction  in 
deferred taxes was offset by a corresponding reduction in the valuation allowance, and as such had no impact to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements, earnings per share, statement of cash flows, or statement of equity for any period 
presented.  

The  Company  recognizes  deferred  tax  assets  for  the  expected  future  tax  consequences  of  temporary  differences 
between  the  financial  reporting  and  tax  bases  of  assets  and  liabilities,  and  for  operating  losses  and  tax  credit 
carryforwards.  The  Company  records  a  valuation  allowance  to  reduce  the  deferred  tax  assets  to  their  estimated 
realizable value, when it is more likely than not that it will not be able to generate sufficient future taxable income to 
realize  the  net  carrying  value.  The  Company  reviews  the  deferred  tax  asset  and  valuation  allowance  on  a  quarterly 
basis, and considers whether positive and negative evidence exists to effect the realization of deferred tax assets. After 
considering both the positive and negative evidence as of September 30, 2009, the Company determined that it was not 
more-likely-than-not  that  it  would realize  the  full  value of  its  deferred  tax  assets. As  a  result,  in 2009  the  Company 
established a valuation allowance of $10.2 million against the net deferred tax asset balance as of December 31, 2008. 
In addition, the Company recorded a valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets generated in 2009 and 2010, 
which resulted in a valuation allowance of $17.9 million as of December 31, 2010.  

As of December 31, 2010, the Company had cumulative net operating loss carry-forwards for federal and state income 
tax  reporting  purposes  of  approximately  $17.0  million  and  $5.6  million,  respectively.  The  federal  net  operating  loss 
carry-forwards  expire  through  the  year  2030  and  the  state  net  operating  loss  carry-forwards  expire  at  various  dates 
through the year 2030. Such net operating losses consist of excess tax benefits from employee stock option exercises 
and have not been recorded in the Company’s deferred tax assets.  

As  of  December  31,  2010,  the  Company  had  research  and  development  tax  credits  for  federal  and  state  income  tax 
purposes  of  approximately  $2.9  million  and  $3.2  million,  respectively.  The  federal  research  and  development  tax 
credits expire through the year 2030. The state research and development credits can be carried forward indefinitely, 
except for $284,000, which will expire at various dates through the year 2020. The Company maintained a valuation 
allowance against these tax credits at December 31, 2010.  

76 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
At December 31, 2010, the Company had an aggregate of approximately $3 million of unremitted earnings of foreign 
subsidiaries that have been, or are intended to be, indefinitely reinvested for continued use in foreign operations. If the 
total undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries were remitted, a significant amount of the additional tax would be 
offset by the allowable foreign tax credits. The Company has determined that it is not practical for it to determine the 
additional tax of remitting these earnings.  

Uncertain Tax Positions  

The Company establishes reserves for uncertain tax positions in accordance with the ASC. The subtopic prescribes the 
minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. 
Additionally, the subtopic provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, and 
transition of uncertain tax positions. The impact of an uncertain income tax position on income tax expense must be 
recognized at the largest amount that is more-likely-than-not to be sustained. An uncertain income tax position will not 
be  recognized  if  it  has  less  than  a  50%  likelihood  of  being  sustained.  The  Company  has  provided  taxes  and  related 
interest and penalties due for potential adjustments that may result from examinations of open U.S. Federal, state and 
foreign tax years. If the Company ultimately determines that payment of these amounts are not more-likely-than-not, 
the Company will reverse the liability and recognize a tax benefit during the period in which the Company makes the 
determination.  The  Company  will  record  an  additional  charge  in  the  Company’s provision for  taxes  in  the period in 
which the Company determines that the recorded tax liability is less than the Company expects the ultimate assessment 
to  be.  The  Company’s  policy  to  include  interest  and  penalties  related  to  gross  unrecognized  tax  benefits  within  the 
provision for income taxes did not change.  

The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s gross unrecognized tax benefits from December 
31, 2009 to December 31, 2010 (in thousands):  

Balance at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Increases related to prior year tax positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Decreases related to prior year tax positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Increases related to current year tax positions . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Decreases related to lapsing of statute of limitations . . . . . . .  
Balance at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

$

$

2010 

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008 

787 
— 
(29) 
24 
(227) 
555 

$

$

1,640 
88 
(857) 
29 
(113) 
787 

$

$

1,500 
— 
(98)
258 
(20)
1,640 

The  Company’s  total  unrecognized  tax  benefits  that,  if  recognized,  would  affect  its  effective  tax  rate  were 
approximately  $405,000  and $737,000  as  of  December  31,  2010  and  2009,  respectively.  The  Company  had  accrued 
approximately $71,000 and $117,000 for payment of interest as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Interest 
included  in  the  provision  for  income  taxes  was  not  significant  in  all  the  periods  presented.  The  Company  has  not 
accrued any penalties related to its uncertain tax positions as it believes that it is more likely than not that there will not 
be  any  assessment  of  penalties.  The  Company  expects  that  the  amount of  unrecognized  tax benefits will  not  change 
within the next 12 months.  

NOTE 8—NET LOSS PER SHARE:  

Basic  net  income  (loss)  per  share  is  calculated  by  dividing  net  income  (loss)  by  the  weighted-average  number  of 
common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted net income per share is calculated by using the weighted-average 
number of common shares outstanding during the year increased to include the number of additional shares of common 
stock that would have been outstanding if the dilutive potential shares of common stock had been issued. The dilutive 
effect of outstanding options, Employee Stock Purchase Plan shares and restricted stock units is reflected in diluted net 
income  per  share  by  application  of  the  treasury  stock  method,  which  includes  consideration  of  stock-based 
compensation.  

For years presented with a net diluted net loss per common share is the same as basic net loss per common share, as the 
effect of the potential common stock equivalents is anti-dilutive and as such is excluded from the calculations of the 
diluted net loss per share.  

77 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss and the weighted average number of shares 
used in computing basic and diluted net loss per share (in thousands):  

Numerator: 

Net loss—basic and diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Denominator: 

Weighted-average number of common shares 

outstanding used in computing basic net loss per 
share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Dilutive potential common shares used in computing 
diluted net loss per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total weighted-average number of shares used in 

computing diluted net loss per share. . . . . . . . . . . .  

Anti-dilutive Securities  

2010 

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008 

$

(10,518)  $

(17,679)  $

(2,869)

13,540 

13,279 

12,770 

— 

— 

— 

13,540 

13,279 

12,770 

The following number of weighted shares outstanding, prior to the application of the treasury stock method, were 
excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per common share for the years presented because including them 
would have had an anti-dilutive effect (in thousands):  

Options to purchase common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Restricted stock units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Employee stock purchase plan shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

NOTE 9—DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN: 

2010 

Year Ended December 31, 
2009 

2008 

3,187 
48 
66 
3,301 

2,746 
5 
84 
2,835 

2,882 
19 
94 
2,995 

In  the  United  States,  the  Company  has  an  employee  savings  plan  (401(k) Plan)  that  qualifies  as  a  deferred  salary 
arrangement  under  Section 401(k)  of  the  Internal  Revenue  Code.  Eligible  employees  may  make  voluntary 
contributions to the 401(k) Plan up to 100% of their annual compensation, subject to statutory annual limitations. From 
April 1999 to December 31, 2008, the Company made discretionary matching contributions of 50% to 75% of all U.S. 
employees’  contributions  in  each  401(k)  Plan  year.  The  Company  made  no  discretionary  contributions  in  2010  and 
2009 and made discretionary contributions of $572,000 in 2008 under the 401(k) Plan. 

For the Company’s Japanese subsidiary, it has established an employee retirement plan at its discretion. In addition, for 
some of the Company’s other foreign subsidiaries, the Company deposits funds with insurance companies, third-party 
trustees, or into government-managed accounts consistent with the requirements of local laws. The Company has fully 
funded or accrued for its obligations as of December 31, 2010, and the related expense for each of the three years then 
ended was not significant. 

NOTE 10—SEGMENT, GEOGRAPHIC AND MAJOR CUSTOMER INFORMATION: 

In  accordance  with  the  FASB  ASC  280  guidance  on  disclosures  about  segments  of  an  enterprise  and  related 
information, operating segments are identified as components of an enterprise about which separate discrete financial 
information  is  available  for  evaluation  by  the  chief  operating  decision  maker,  or  decision-making  group,  in  making 
decisions how to allocate resources and assess performance. The Company’s chief decision maker, as defined under the 
FASB’s  ASC  280  guidance,  is  a  combination  of  the  Chief  Executive  Officer  and  the  Executive  Vice  President  and 
Chief  Financial  Officer.  To  date,  the  Company  has  viewed  its  operations,  managed  its  business,  and  used  one 
measurement of profitability for the one operating segment – the sale of aesthetic medical equipment and services, and 
distribution of cosmeceutical and dermal filler products, to qualified medical practitioners. In addition, substantially all 
of the Company’s long-lived assets are located in one facility in the United States. As a result, the financial information 
disclosed  in  the  Company’s  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  represents  all  of  the  material  financial  information 
related to the Company’s operating segment. The following table summarizes revenue by geographic region, which is 
based on the shipping location of where the product is delivered, and product category (in thousands): 

78 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revenue mix by geography: 

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Asia, excluding Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Europe  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Rest of the world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Consolidated total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Revenue mix by product category: 

Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Titan hand piece refills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Dermal filler and cosmeceuticals(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Consolidated total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

Year Ended December 31, 
2009(1) 

2008(1)

2010

$ 19,337 
13,625 
5,131 
5,801 
9,380 
$ 53,274 

$ 27,808 
4,824 
13,231 
3,863 
3,548 
$ 53,274 

$  21,019 
9,636 
4,727 
7,087 
11,213 
$  53,682 

$  26,842 
6,343 
13,186 
5,599 
1,712 
$  53,682 

$ 41,683
10,929
5,713
10,522
14,532
$ 83,379

$ 57,821
8,361
11,358
5,662
177
$ 83,379

(1) Beginning in 2010, we classified revenue from Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals product in the revenue category 
‘Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals.’ Previously, we classified this revenue under the category of ‘Products.’ As such, 
we reclassified the 2009 and 2008 revenue from ‘Products’ to ‘Dermal fillers and cosmeceuticals.’ 

The Company had one customer that represented net revenue of 5% in 2010, 7% in 2009 and 14% in 2008. 

The Company had one customer that accounted for 10% at December 31, 2010 and 29% at December 31, 2009 of the 
Company’s total accounts receivable balance. 

NOTE 11—COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES: 

Facility Leases. 

The Company leases its Brisbane, California, office and manufacturing facility under a non-cancelable operating lease 
which  expires  in  2017.  In  addition,  the  Company  has  leased  office  facilities  in  certain  international  countries  as 
follows: 

Country 
Japan 

Square Footage 

  Approximately 5,790 

Switzerland 
France 

  Approximately 3,174 
  Approximately 450 

Spain 

  Approximately 175 

Lease termination or Expiration 
Three leases, of which two expire in May 2012, and one expires 
in July 2013, but may be cancelled at any time with a six-month 
notice. 

  One lease expiring March 2013. 

Lease expires in November 2011, but may be cancelled at any 
time with a three-month notice. 
Lease automatically renews at the end of each six-month period.

As of December 31, 2010, the Company was committed to minimum lease payments for facilities and other leased 
assets under long-term non-cancelable operating leases as follows (in thousands): 

Year Ending December 31, 
2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
2016 and thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   
Total Future minimum rental payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   

$ 

$ 

Amount 

1,688
1,509
1,281
1,232
1,269
2,653
9,632

79 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross rent expense was $1.7 million in 2010, $1.6 million in 2009 and $1.7 million in 2008. 

Purchase Commitments. 

The  Company  maintains  certain  open  inventory  purchase  commitments  with  its  suppliers  to  ensure  a  smooth  and 
continuous supply for key components. The Company’s liability in these purchase commitments is generally restricted 
to a forecasted time-horizon as agreed between the parties. These forecasted time-horizons can vary among different 
suppliers. The Company’s open inventory purchase commitments with its suppliers were not significant at December 
31, 2010. 

Indemnifications 

In  the  normal  course  of  business,  the  Company  enters  into  agreements  that  contain  a  variety  of  representations, 
warranties, and indemnification obligations. For example, the Company has entered into indemnification agreements 
with  each  of  its  directors  and  executive  officers.  The  Company’s  exposure  under  its  various  indemnification 
obligations  is  unknown  and  not  reasonably  estimable  as  they  involve  future  claims  that  may  be  made  against  the 
Company. As such, the Company has not accrued any amounts for such obligations. 

Litigation 

A Telephone Consumer Protection Act, or TCPA, class action lawsuit was filed against the Company in January 2008 
and settled in 2009 on a class-wide basis. In 2009, the Company paid a total of $950,000 in exchange for a full release 
of all claims and recorded a charge of $850,000 in its 2009 Consolidated Statements of Operations for the cost of the 
settlement, net of the administrative expenses and contributions from its insurance carrier. 

Other Legal Matters 

In  addition  to  the  foregoing  lawsuits,  the  Company  is  named  from  time  to  time  as  a  party  to  product  liability  and 
contractual lawsuits in the normal course of its business. As of December 31, 2010, the Company was not a party to 
any material pending litigation other than those described above in the “Litigation” section. 

NOTE 12—SUBSEQUENT EVENT: 

Management evaluated all activity of the Company and concluded that no subsequent events have occurred that would 
require  recognition  in  the  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  or  disclosure  in  Notes  to  Consolidated  Financial 
Statements as of December 31, 2010. 

80 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) 
(In thousands, except per share amounts) 

Dec. 31, 
2010 

Sept. 30,
2010

June 30,
2010

March 31,
2010

Dec. 31,
2009

Sept. 30, 
2009 

June 30, 
2009 

March 31,
2009

Quarter ended: 
Net revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 15,216  $ 12,092  $12,217  $ 13,749  $15,416  $ 12,171  $11,665  $ 14,430 
Cost of revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   6,233 
5,936 
5,335 
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   8,983 
8,494 
6,882 

  5,661 
  6,431 

  5,130 
  6,535 

5,783 
9,633 

5,829 
7,920 

4,910 
7,261 

Operating expenses: 
Sales and marketing . . . . . . . . . .   6,123 
Research and development . . . .   2,173 
General and administrative . . . .   2,238 
Litigation settlement . . . . . . . . . .  
— 
Total operating expense . . . . .   10,534 

  5,799 
  1,871 
  2,352 
— 
  10,022 
Loss from operations. . . . . . . . . .   (1,551)    (3,591) 
Interest and other income, net . .  
132 
Loss before income taxes . . . .   (1,407)    (3,459) 

144 

6,452 
1,506 
2,744 
— 
10,702 
(3,820) 
141 
(3,679) 

6,361 
1,454 
2,242 
— 
10,057 
(2,137) 
166 
(1,971) 

6,100 
1,888 
2,063 
— 
10,051 
(418) 
174 
(244) 

  6,071 
5,112 
  1,495 
1,684 
  3,616 
2,121 
— 
— 
8,917 
  11,182 
(1,656)    (4,647) 
511 
(1,368)    (4,136) 

288 

7,003 
1,743 
2,520 
850 
12,116 
(3,622)
599 
(3,023)

Provision (benefit) for income 
taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

47 

— 

82 

(127)   
Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ (1,280)  $ (3,459)  $ (3,761)  $ (2,018)  $
Net loss per share—basic . . . . . . $  (0.09)  $ (0.25)  $ (0.28)  $
(0.15)  $
Net loss per share—diluted . . . . $  (0.09)  $ (0.25)  $ (0.28)  $
(0.15)  $
Weighted average number of 
shares used in per share 
calculations: 
Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   13,622 
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   13,622 

  13,589 
  13,589 

13,501 
13,501 

13,438 
13,438 

(251) 

12,126 

  (1,772) 

(1,195)
7  $ (13,494)  $ (2,364)  $ (1,828)
(0.14)
(1.01)  $ (0.18)  $
(0.14)
(1.01)  $ (0.18)  $

0.00  $
0.00  $

13,427 
13,610 

13,382 
13,382 

  13,317 
  13,317 

13,120 
13,120 

81 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SCHEDULE II 

CUTERA, INC. 

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS 
(in thousands) 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 

Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable 

Year ended December 31, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Year ended December 31, 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Year ended December 31, 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  

$
$
$

586 
61 
9 

$
$
$

116 
675 
191 

$
$
$

682 
150 
139 

$
$
$

20
586
61

Balance at 
Beginning 
of Year 

  Additions 

  Deductions 

Balance 
at End of
Year

82 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9. 

CHANGES  IN  AND  DISAGREEMENTS  WITH  ACCOUNTANTS  ON  ACCOUNTING  AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE 

None. 

ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures 

Attached  as  exhibits  to  this  Annual  Report  are  certifications  of  the  Company’s  Chief  Executive  Officer  (CEO)  and 
Chief Financial Officer (CFO), which are required in accordance with Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934,  as  amended  (Exchange  Act).  This  Controls  and  Procedures  section  includes  the  information  concerning  the 
controls  evaluation  referred to  in  the  certifications,  and  it  should  be  read  in  conjunction with  the  certifications  for  a 
more complete understanding of the topics presented. 

The Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and 
procedures (as defined in the Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) (Disclosure Controls) as of the 
end  of  the  period  covered  by  this  Report  required  by  Exchange  Act  Rules 13a-15(b)  or  15d-15(b).  The  controls 
evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including 
the CEO and CFO. Based on this evaluation, the CEO and our CFO have concluded that as of the end of the period 
covered  by  this  report  the  Company’s  disclosure  controls  and  procedures  were  effective  at  a  reasonable  assurance 
level. 

Definition of Disclosure Controls 

Disclosure  Controls  are  controls  and  procedures  designed  to  reasonably  assure  that  information  required  to  be 
disclosed  in  the  Company’s  reports  filed  under  the  Exchange  Act,  such  as  this  Report,  is  recorded,  processed, 
summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure Controls are also 
designed to reasonably assure that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, 
including the CEO and CFO, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. The Company’s 
Disclosure  Controls  include  components  of  its  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  which  consists  of  control 
processes  designed  to  provide  reasonable  assurance  regarding  the  reliability  of  its  financial  reporting  and  the 
preparation  of  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  generally  accepted  accounting  principles  in  the  U.S.  To  the 
extent that components of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting are included within its Disclosure 
Controls, they are included in the scope of the Company’s annual controls evaluation. 

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial 
reporting  as  defined  in  Rules  13a-15(f)  and  15d-15(f)  under  the  Exchange  Act.  Under  the  supervision  and  with  the 
participation of the Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, the Company conducted an evaluation of 
the  effectiveness  of  its  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  based  on  criteria  established  in  the  framework  in 
Internal  Control—Integrated  Framework  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the  Treadway 
Commission.  Based  on  this  evaluation,  the  Company’s  management  concluded  that  the  Company’s  internal  control 
over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2010. The effectiveness of our internal control over financial 
reporting  as  of  December  31,  2010  has  been  audited  by  PricewaterhouseCoopers  LLP,  an  Independent  Registered 
Public Accounting Firm, as stated in their report, which is included herein. 

83 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls 

The Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, does not expect that the Company’s disclosure controls or 
internal  control  over  financial  reporting  will  prevent  all  error  and  all  fraud.  A  control  system,  no matter  how  well 
designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be 
met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of 
controls  must  be  considered  relative  to  their  costs.  Because  of  the  inherent  limitations  in  all  control  systems,  no 
evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the 
Company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision making can be 
faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple  error or mistake. Controls can also be circumvented by the 
individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. The 
design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there 
can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Over 
time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance 
with policies or procedures. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to 
error or fraud may occur and not be detected. 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the most recent 
fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control 
over financial reporting. 

ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION 

The  Company  has  established  that  the  2011  Annual  Meeting  of  Stockholders  will  be  held  at its  principal  executive 
offices located at 3240 Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, CA 94005-1021 on June 13, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. and the record date 
for the purposes of voting in that meeting shall be April 18, 2011. 

Certain  information  required  by  Part  III  is  omitted  from  this  Annual  Report  on  Form  10-K  because  we  will  file  a 
Definitive Proxy Statement (the “Proxy Statement”) for our 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders with the Securities 
and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year ended December 31, 2010. 

PART III 

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. 

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. 

ITEM 12. 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND 
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. 

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN  RELATIONSHIPS  AND  RELATED  TRANSACTIONS,  AND  DIRECTOR

INDEPENDENCE 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. 

ITEM 14. 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES 

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. 

84 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART IV 

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES 

(1)  The financial statements required by Item 15(a) are filed as Item 8 of this annual report. 

(2)  The financial statement schedule required by Item 15(a) filed as Item 8 of this annual report. 

(3)  Exhibits. 

Exhibit No. 
3.2(1) 
3.4(1) 
4.1(4) 
10.1(1) 
10.2(1) 
10.3(1) 
10.4(5) 
10.6(1) 

10.10(2) 

10.11(3) 
10.13(4)† 

10.14(6) 
10.18(7) 
10.19(8) 

  Description 
  Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant (Delaware). 
  Bylaws of the Registrant. 
  Specimen Common Stock certificate of the Registrant. 
  Form of Indemnification Agreement for directors and executive officers. 
  1998 Stock Plan. 
  2004 Equity Incentive Plan. 
  2004 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. 
  Brisbane  Technology  Park  Lease  dated  August  5,  2003  by  and  between  the  Registrant  and  Gal-

Brisbane, L.P. for office space located at 3240 Bayshore Boulevard, Brisbane, California. 

  Settlement  Agreement  and  Non-Exclusive  Patent  License,  each  between  the  Registrant  and  Palomar

Medical Technologies, Inc. dated June 2, 2006. 
  Form of Performance Unit Award Agreement. 
  Distribution  Agreement  between  the  Registrant  and  PSS  World  Medical  Shared  Services,  Inc.,  a

subsidiary of PSS World Medical dated October 1, 2006. 

  Cutera, Inc. 2004 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended by its Board of Directors on April 25, 2008. 
  Consulting Agreement dated March 2, 2009 by and between the Company and David A. Gollnick. 
  First  Amendment  to  Brisbane  Technology  Park  Lease  dated  August  11,  2010  by  and  between  the
Company  and  BMR-Bayshore  Boulevard  LLC,  as  successor-in-interest  to  Gal-Brisbane,  L.P.,  the 
original landlord, for office space located at 3240 Bayshore Boulevard. 

10.20 

  Change of Control and Severance Agreement dated January 5, 2011 by and between the Company and

23.1 
24.1 
31.1 
31.2 
32.1 

Len DeBenedictis, Chief Technology Officer of Cutera Inc. 
  Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.  
  Power of Attorney (see page 73). 
  Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 
  Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 
  Certification  of  Chief  Executive  Officer  and  Chief  Financial  Officer  pursuant  to  18  U.S.C.  Section

1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

(1) 

(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 

Incorporated by reference from our Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-111928) which was 
declared effective on March 30, 2004. 
Incorporated by reference from our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 2, 2006. 
Incorporated by reference from our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 14, 2005. 
Incorporated by reference from our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 8, 2006. 
Incorporated by reference from our 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2007. 
Incorporated  by  reference  from  our  Definitive  Proxy  Statement  on  Form  14A  filed  with  the  SEC  on  April  28, 
2008. 
Incorporated by reference from our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 4, 2009. 
Incorporated by reference from our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 1, 2010. 

(7) 
(8) 
†  Confidential Treatment has been requested for certain portions of this exhibit. 

85 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly 
caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the city of Brisbane, State 
of California, on the 15th day of March, 2011. 

SIGNATURES 

CUTERA, INC. 

By:

/s/ KEVIN P. CONNORS 
Kevin P. Connors 
President and Chief Executive Officer   

Power of Attorney 

KNOW  ALL  MEN  AND  WOMEN  BY  THESE  PRESENTS,  that  each  person  whose  signature  appears  below 
constitutes and appoints Kevin P. Connors, his attorney-in-fact, for him  or her in any and all capacities, to sign any 
amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto and other documents in 
connection therewith, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said 
attorney-in-fact, or his substitute, may do or cause to be done by virtue thereof. 

Pursuant  to  the  requirements  of  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934,  this  report  has  been  signed  below  by  the 
following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. 

Signature 

Title 

Date 

/s/ KEVIN P. CONNORS 
Kevin P. Connors 

/s/ RONALD J. SANTILLI 
Ronald J. Santilli 

  President,  Chief  Executive  Officer  and  Director  (Principal

March 15, 2011 

Executive Officer) 

  Executive  Vice  President  and  Chief  Financial  Officer

March 15, 2011 

(Principal Accounting Officer) 

/s/ DAVID B. APFELBERG 
David B. Apfelberg 

  Director 

/s/ DAVID A. GOLLNICK 
David A. Gollnick 

  Director 

/s/ MARK LORTZ 
Mark Lortz 

/s/ TIM O’SHEA 
Tim O’Shea 

  Director 

  Director 

/s/ JERRY P. WIDMAN 
Jerry P. Widman 

  Director 

March 15, 2011 

March 15, 2011 

March 15, 2011 

March 15, 2011 

March 15, 2011 

86 

 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EXHIBIT 31.1 

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 
PURSUANT TO 15 U.S.C. SECTION 7241, AS 
ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 

I, Kevin P. Connors, certify that: 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Cutera, Inc.: 

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a 
material  fact  necessary  to  make  the  statements  made,  in  light  of  the  circumstances  under  which  such 
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 

Based  on  my  knowledge,  the  financial  statements,  and  other  financial  information  included  in  this  report, 
fairly  present  in  all  material  respects  the  financial  condition,  results  of  operations  and  cash  flows  of  the 
registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 

The  registrant’s  other  certifying  officer  and  I  are  responsible  for  establishing  and  maintaining  disclosure 
controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over 
financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be 
designed  under  our  supervision,  to  ensure  that  material  information  relating  to  the  registrant,  including  its 
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in 
which this annual report is being prepared; 

(b)  Designed  such  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  or  caused  such  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting  to  be  designed  under  our  supervision,  to  provide  reasonable  assurance  regarding  the  reliability  of 
financial  reporting  and  the  preparation  of  financial  statements  for  external  purposes  in  accordance  with 
generally accepted accounting principles; 

(c)  Evaluated  the  effectiveness  of  the  registrant’s  disclosure  controls  and  procedures  and  presented  in  this 
report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the 
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and 

(d)  Disclosed  in  this  report  any  change  in  the  registrant’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  that 
occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of 
an  annual  report)  that  has  materially  affected,  or  is  reasonably  likely  to  materially  affect,  the  registrant’s 
internal control over financial reporting; and 

5. 

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal 
control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board 
of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): 

a)  All  significant  deficiencies  and  material  weaknesses  in  the  design  or  operation  of  internal  control  over 
financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, 
summarize and report financial information; and 

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant 
role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. 

Date: March 15, 2011 

/s/ KEVIN P. CONNORS 
Kevin P. Connors 
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
(Principal Executive Officer) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EXHIBIT 31.2 

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 
PURSUANT TO 15 U.S.C. SECTION 7241, AS 
ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 

I, Ronald J. Santilli, certify that: 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Cutera, Inc.: 

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a 
material  fact  necessary  to  make  the  statements  made,  in  light  of  the  circumstances  under  which  such 
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 

Based  on  my  knowledge,  the  financial  statements,  and  other  financial  information  included  in  this  report, 
fairly  present  in  all  material  respects  the  financial  condition,  results  of  operations  and  cash  flows  of  the 
registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 

The  registrant’s  other  certifying  officer  and  I  are  responsible  for  establishing  and  maintaining  disclosure 
controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over 
financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: 

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be 
designed  under  our  supervision,  to  ensure  that  material  information  relating  to  the  registrant,  including  its 
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in 
which this annual report is being prepared; 

(b)  Designed  such  internal  control  over  financial  reporting,  or  caused  such  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting  to  be  designed  under  our  supervision,  to  provide  reasonable  assurance  regarding  the  reliability  of 
financial  reporting  and  the  preparation  of  financial  statements  for  external  purposes  in  accordance  with 
generally accepted accounting principles; 

(c)  Evaluated  the  effectiveness  of  the  registrant’s  disclosure  controls  and  procedures  and  presented  in  this 
report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the 
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and 

(d)  Disclosed  in  this  report  any  change  in  the  registrant’s  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  that 
occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of 
an  annual  report)  that  has  materially  affected  or  is  reasonably  likely  to  materially  affect,  the  registrant’s 
internal control over financial reporting; and 

5. 

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal 
control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board 
of directors or (any other persons performing the equivalent functions): 

a)  All  significant  deficiencies  and  material  weaknesses  in  the  design  or  operation  of  internal  control  over 
financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, 
summarize and report financial information; and 

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant 
role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. 

March 15, 2011 

/s/ RONALD J. SANTILLI 
Ronald J. Santilli 
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EXHIBIT 32.1 

CERTIFICATION OF 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 
PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, 
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002 

In connection with the annual report on Form 10-K of Cutera, Inc. a Delaware corporation, for the period ended 
December 31, 2010, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, each of the undersigned officers of Cutera, 
Inc. certifies pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 
2002, that to his respective knowledge: 

(1) 

(2) 

the annual report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and 
the information contained in the annual report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial 
condition and results of operations of Cutera, Inc. for the periods presented therein. 

Date: March 15, 2011 

Date: March 15, 2011 

/s/ Kevin P. Connors 
Kevin P. Connors 
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director 
(Principal Executive Officer) 

/s/ Ronald J. Santilli 
Ronald J. Santilli 
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President 
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
Corporate Information (as of April 26, 2011) 

ANNUAL MEETING 
Annual meeting of stockholders will be 
held on June 14, 2011, 10:00 a.m. (PDT) 
at: 3240 Bayshore Blvd., Brisbane, 
California 94005. 

TRANSFER AGENT 
Computershare Trust Company, Inc.  
350 Indiana St., Suite 800 
Golden, Colorado 80401 
303-262-0600 

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED 
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
San Jose, California 

CORPORATE LEGAL COUNSEL 
Wilson, Sonsini, Goodrich & Rosati, 

P.C., Palo Alto, California 

CORPORATE/STOCKHOLDER 
INFORMATION 
Our Form 10-K was filed with the 
Securities and Exchange Commission on 
March 15, 2011. For additional copies of 
this report, Form 10-K, or other financial 
information, without charge, please visit 
the Investor Relations page on our 
website at: www.cutera.com or write to 
ir@cutera.com. 

STOCK LISTING 
AND MARKET DATA 
Our common stock is traded on The 
NASDAQ Global market under the 
symbol “CUTR.” We have not declared 
or paid any cash dividends on our capital 
stock since our inception. We currently 
expect to retain future earnings, if any, 
for use in the operation and expansion of 
our business and do not anticipate paying 
any cash dividends in the foreseeable 
future. As of February 28, 2011, we 
believe there were approximately 2,600 
holders of record of our common stock. 
The following table sets forth quarterly 
high and low closing sales prices per 
share of our common stock as reported 
on The NASDAQ Global Market for the 
periods indicated. 

Common Stock 

2010 

2009

  High    Low  High Low
4th Qtr. . . .   $  8.39  $  7.01  $ 9.63 $ 7.97
3rd Qtr. . . .    
9.00    6.99    9.40   7.85
2nd Qtr. . . .     12.04    8.62    9.03   5.93
1st Qtr.. . . .     11.03    8.25    8.71   5.57

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 
Kevin P. Connors, President and Chief 

Executive Officer, Cutera, Inc. 
David A. Gollnick1, Former Vice 

President of Research and 
Development, Cutera, Inc. 

David B. Apfelberg, MD3 5, Clinical 

Professor of Plastic Surgery, Stanford 
University Medical Center 

Mark Lortz2, Former Chief Executive 

Officer, ThereaSense, Inc. 
Timothy J. O’Shea2 3, Managing 

Director, Oxo Capital 

Jerry P. Widman 2 3 4, Former Chief 
Financial Officer, Ascension Health 
1-Mr. Gollnick is a member of our Board 
of Directors and provides consulting 
services to the Company. 
2-Audit Committee member 
3-Compensation Committee member 
4-Chairman of Audit Committee 
5-Chairman of Compensation Committee 

MANAGEMENT TEAM 
Kevin P. Connors, President, Chief 
Executive Officer and Director 
Len DeBenedictis, Chief Technology 

Officer 

Ronald J. Santilli, Executive Vice 

President and Chief Financial Officer 

Scott Davenport, Vice President, 
Research and Development 

Brian Hall, Vice President, Service 
Michael Poole, Vice President, North 

America Sales 

Robert Shine, Vice President, Technical 

Marketing  

Chris West, Vice President, Pacific Rim 
Ken Witte, Vice President, Marketing & 

Clinical Research 

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN* 
Among Cutera, Inc., the NASDAQ Composite Index 
and the NASDAQ Medical Equipment Index 

*$100 invested on 12/31/05 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends.  
Fiscal year ending December