Smartlipo® Cost and Procedure Guide

If you are juggling a busy schedule and struggling with areas of stubborn fat that diet and exercise just won’t touch, Smartlipo® can offer a way to achieve a slimmer body contour without the extended downtime of traditional surgery. Smartlipo enables many patients to return to work in as little as one day.¹

What Is Smartlipo?

Smartlipo is a type of laser-assisted liposuction that utilizes a unique laser to heat tissues and disrupt fat cells, which are then gently suctioned away.² This process is performed under local anesthesia, which means you can remain awake during the procedure.¹

The procedure can address stubborn fat deposits in multiple areas of your body, including:²

• Abdomen and waistline
• Arms
• Back and love handles
• Buttocks
• Neck and chin
• Thighs

Some types of Smartlipo are equipped with a ThermaGuide® temperature-sensing cannula for precise temperature control. This technology enables more comprehensive and tailored fat removal.¹

Candidates

You may be an ideal candidate for Smartlipo if you're in good overall health and maintain a stable weight, but struggle with localized fat deposits despite a healthy lifestyle.³ The best candidates are close to their goal weight and have good skin elasticity. This procedure is designed for body refinement rather than significant weight loss.⁴

Smartlipo vs. traditional liposuction

Smartlipo differs from traditional or surgical liposuction because it involves inserting a laser through a tiny incision to liquefy fat while simultaneously stimulating skin tightening and blood vessel coagulation.²

How Much Does Smartlipo Cost?

The national average cost* of Smartlipo varies depending on the area you are treating, your provider’s skill and experience and where you live.

Average cost of Smartlipo by treatment area

Below are the average costs* of Smartlipo for different areas of the body.⁵

Average cost of Smartlipo by state/district

Here are the average costs* of Smartlipo procedures in all 50 states and the District of Columbia:⁵

Is Smartlipo Covered by Insurance?

Smartlipo is considered an elective cosmetic procedure, which means it’s not likely to be covered by health insurance. Insurance companies typically only cover procedures that are medically necessary, such as those to treat a health condition or injury. Because Smartlipo is generally performed to improve appearance and self-confidence, you’ll likely need to pay out of pocket.⁶

How Smartlipo Works

Understanding the process can help you feel more confident and prepared for your procedure. Here is what you may expect from a Smartlipo procedure.

Preparation

Your experience starts with a personalized consultation to discuss your unique goals. During this session, your provider may:²

• Discuss your aesthetic goals and determine if Smartlipo is the most suitable option for you.
• Explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have.
• Review your medical history and assess your overall health.

Procedure

On the day of your treatment, your procedure can include these steps:²

• Local anesthesia is administered to numb the targeted area and ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
• Small incisions are made, and a thin tube called a laser cannula is inserted.
• Laser energy is used to liquefy the fat cells, making them easier to remove.
• The melted fat is then gently suctioned out.

Recovery and aftercare

One advantage of this procedure is the minimal downtime. You will receive detailed aftercare instructions for a smooth healing process:²

• As you heal, you may be instructed to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and provide support to the treated areas.
• Many patients can go back to work and light activities within a few days.
• While you may see some immediate change, final results will become more apparent over the next few weeks as the body heals and the skin tightens.
• You will likely have follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure you are satisfied with the results.

A Smart Liposuction Experience

Smartlipo offers a minimally invasive way to target stubborn fat and achieve a more sculpted look with less downtime than traditional liposuction. While it may not be a substitute for healthy habits, it can help you contour your shape when diet and exercise aren’t enough. With the right provider and a clear understanding of the process, you can move forward with confidence and realistic expectations.

Financing Smartlipo With the CareCredit Credit Card

When getting Smartlipo or another cosmetic procedure, the CareCredit credit card can help you pay for costs not covered by insurance.** Use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic specialist near you who accepts CareCredit. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, pet care, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Pamela Cagle, R.N., has extensive experience in a range of clinical settings, including ER, surgical and cardiovascular. For the past decade, she has leveraged her nursing experience in writing for health and technology publications such as AARP, VKTR, National Council on Aging and others. She is passionate about blending her medical and storytelling expertise to bring authenticity to health and wellness topics.