I'm not sure your question makes complete sense. Most of the lasers I have used do not allow you to use an 18 mm distance gauge erroneously. Once the gauge is put in place, the laser defaults to the most common 18 mm settings. Other factors are involved in the outcome, such as energy and pulse duration, so it's impossible to completely answer your question.Laser is a science, and not an easy one to learn. My suggestion to you is see a board-certified physician with experience in laser. If you are worried about the settings your practitioner used, you may not be seeing the right person, or do not have full trust in their abilities. Best of luck to you!