 | One Body Part: $2,500-$5,500+ per treatment |
|
 | Multiple or Difficult Body Parts: $5,000-$7,500+ per treatment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
| |
| SmartLipo is a cosmetic procedure in which a surgeon uses a laser to melt fat cells -- which is not done in traditional liposuction -- then removes them by using suction. | | |
| Typical costs: | - SmartLipo typically costs about $2,500 to $7,500 per treatment, depending on the patient and, in some cases, which part of the body is being treated. For example, Laser Cosmetic Solutions in Seguin, Texas, charges a flat rate of about $2,495 to treat one body part. Image Aesthetics in Kansas City, Missouri, charges about $2,500 to treat one body part. And the Rejuvalife Vitality Center in California charges $5,500 to treat the abdomen and $7,500 to treat the abdomen and love handles.
- Treatment costs vary by geographic area -- SmartLipo tends to cost more in larger cities on the coasts. The cost also can vary by individual patient based on surface area, time spent, difficulty of procedure and amount of fat to be removed.
- SmartLipo is considered a cosmetic procedure, so it typically is not covered by health insurance.
What should be included: | - In SmartLipo, the surgeon uses local anesthesia, then makes small incisions in the skin and inserts a tiny laser to melt fat, which is then suctioned out. The procedure usually is done on an outpatient basis and takes about an hour. It can take as long as eight to 12 weeks to see the final result. The manufacturer of SmartLipo machines, CynoSure, offers an FAQ for patients about SmartLipo.
- SmartLipo can be used to treat areas of the body including the chin, arms, back, stomach, love handles, knees and thighs. It is best suited for treating a smaller area, unlike traditional liposuction, which can be used for slightly larger fat deposits.
Additional costs: | - Some doctors prescribe antibiotics to be taken for a week after the procedure. This typically costs less than $50.
- A compression garment, which can cost about $50 to $200, and helps reduce swelling and aid healing, must be worn for about a week.
- For some patients, more than one procedure is required to achieve desired results.
- Recovery typically requires two to five days off work.
Discounts: | - Some cosmetic surgery centers offer discounts for treating multiple body parts. For example, Laser Cosmetic Solutions charges $2,495 to treat the first body part and $995 for each additional area. Image Aesthetics, which charges about $2,500 to treat one area, charges about $2,000 to treat a second area and $1,500 to treat a third.
- Some centers offer online coupons or run specials, typically for $500 to $1,000 off a treatment. For example, the Rejuvalife Vitality Center in California has offered a $1,000 discount.
Shopping for smart lipo: | - Tip: Make sure the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The manufacturer of SmartLipo machines, CynoSure, offers a physician locator by zip code.
- It is important to be aware that results can vary. On RealSelf.com, patients offer reviews of their experiences with SmartLipo. Doctors who perform SmartLipo emphasize that it is less invasive then traditional liposuction and also tightens the skin. But some doctors, such as this board-certified plastic surgeon on the CosmeticSurg Blog, contend that SmartLipo does not achieve skin tightening as promised and that results can be imperfect.
- SmartLipo is FDA-approved, but risks include bruising, swelling, infection, burns, injury to the skin or vital organs, fluid loss, reaction to anesthesia and even death.
|
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
|
Article updated February 2010 |
|
E-mail
Post