Laser Liposuction: The Basics

Laser liposuction is a popular procedure to remove fatty deposits through the use of cutting-edge laser technology, usually eliminating the need for incisions.

Is this treatment FDA approved? How long does treatment take? How many treatments are needed?
Cool Lipo Yes, since 2008 Roughly one hour depending on the size of the area being treated One treatment is typically sufficient, but some people require additional treatments
Laser Liposuction Yes, many types of laser liposuction are FDA approved Roughly 45 minutes to one hour Sometimes just one, but most require two to three treatments
Lipolite Laser Liposculpture Yes Approximately 30 minutes to one hour Most patients obtain their desired results in just one treatment
Lipotherme Yes, Lipotherme has been approved by the FDA Typically one hour or less Most patients require just one treatment
ProLipo Yes, ProLipo has been approved by the FDA One to four hours Most patients require 1-2 treatments, but some may need as many as 6
PureLipo Yes, PureLipo is FDA approved Approximately two hours Typically only one treatment is needed
Slim Lipo Yes, Slim Lipo has been approved by the FDA Usually an hour or less One treatment is typically sufficient, but some patients require more
Smart Lipo Yes, Smart Lipo is an FDA approved procedure Two to three hours per session One to three treatments are typically required
Smartlipo MPX Yes, SmartLipo MPX is FDA approved Roughly two to three hours Typically one
SmoothLipo Yes, SmoothLipo has been approved by the FDA Approximately 45 minutes for small areas, longer for larger areas Most patients require just one session
Vaser Liposelection Yes, Vaser Liposelection is FDA approved Two to three hours per session One treatment is typically sufficient
Zerona Laser Liposuction Yes, Zerona Laser Liposuction is FDA approved Each session lasts 40 minutes, and they are performed over the course of two weeks Six
Which body areas are treatable? How much does it cost?
Cool Lipo Small areas such as the neck, arms and under the chin, sometimes the abdomen $1000 or more per session
Laser Liposuction Abdomen, thighs, arms, neck, chin, and face Costs vary depending on the area treated, but $2000-$4000 per session is average
Lipolite Laser Liposculpture The abdomen, buttocks, thighs, arms, back, neck, and face $1500-$8000 depending on the size of the area being treated
Lipotherme Waist, abdomen, back, thighs, hips, arms, knees, ankles, and face $1000-$6000 depending on the size of the area being treated
ProLipo Buttocks, thighs, hip, waist, arms, back, abdomen, chin, neck, and face The cost varies based on the area being treated
PureLipo Most parts of the face and body including the abdomen, thighs, waist, buttocks, arms, neck, and chin The price varies, but it is typically less than $5000 per session
Slim Lipo The arms, knees, ankles, back, chin, abdomen, waist, hips, buttocks, and thighs Costs vary but average is between $2000 and $6000
Smart Lipo Belly, buttocks, thighs, waist, hips, flanks, chin, arms, neck, and face Prices usually range between $2000 and $6000 per session
Smartlipo MPX Pockets of fatty tissue on the face, hips, back, buttocks, breasts, thighs, arms, abdomen, knees, and neck Costs vary depending on the size of the area being treated, but $2000-$6000 is average
SmoothLipo Abdomen, thighs, flanks, waist, back, face, and chin $1500-$8000, but prices vary depending on the size of the area being treated
Vaser Liposelection Most body parts including the abdomen, thighs, knees, buttocks, hips, back, arms, breasts, chin, and neck Roughly $2000-$5000 depending on the size of the area being treated
Zerona Laser Liposuction The abdomen, thighs, love handles, face, chin, and most areas where excess fat is a problem Roughly $2000-$3500 for all six sessions

One of the most popular forms of laser liposuction today is SmartLipo. In this technique, a special laser hand piece is moved over the surface of the treatment area. As the laser energy is directed into the fatty tissue, the fat cells break apart and dissolve. The fluid which is released is removed naturally through the body's natural scavenging processes. Like some other laser liposuction techniques, SmartLipo does not use general anesthetics and involves no incisions. The area is treated first with a numbing gel to eliminate or reduce discomfort

Laser liposuction techniques such as Smart Lipo also act to close off small blood vessels in the treatment area, resulting in less bleeding and reduced swelling. And, the laser liposuction technique encourages the development of the skin's natural collagen, resulting in a tighter, more toned appearance overall in the months following the procedure.

Laser liposuction techniques generally result in minimal bruising and minor discomfort, and most men and women are able to resume their normal routines within 24 hours following their procedure. Optimal results are usually visible abut 6 to 8 weeks following the procedure, and some patients may need 2 or 3 procedures to achieve their desired results.

Laser liposuction is also an ideal procedure to complement traditional liposuction techniques, allowing men and women to achieve more refined results than with traditional liposuction alone. Your costs will vary, but overall range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending upon the extent of treatment.

A consultation with your local DermaNetwork.org laser liposuction specialist can help you choose the procedure that is right for your body and situation.

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR

All Article Categories

Before & After Photos

Suggested Doctors

Recently Asked Questions