Determining the price of Smartlipo in San Jose (or any other location) depends on several factors. In this post, I’ll explain what influences the average cost of Smartlipo, how it compares to traditional liposuction procedures, and provide an estimated cost range.
What Is Smartlipo?
Smartlipo is a laser-assisted liposuction procedure which utilizes laser energy to break up fat, making it easier to remove. The heat of the laser also has a slight skin-tightening effect. Like VASER® ultrasonic liposuction, Smartlipo is a type of high-definition liposuction that can sculpt well-defined contours.
What Influences Smartlipo Pricing?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of liposuction nationwide is $4,711. But that is only for the surgeon’s fee, and the actual cost can vary by several thousand dollars.
The factors influencing to total price include:
Treatment area size and number of areas: The size of the area being treated is one of the biggest cost factors. Smaller areas, such as under the chin, typically cost less than larger or combined areas like the abdomen, back, and flanks. You can use Smartlipo’s cost calculator to get a general idea of what you may pay based on the treatment area.
Surgeon’s expertise, facility, and location: A surgeon’s skill and specialization play a major role in pricing. Surgeons who are highly trained in body contouring and use accredited surgical facilities often charge more. Location also matters; a metropolitan area such as San Jose or the Bay Area generally has higher costs due to increased overhead.
Number of sessions or complexity: While Smartlipo is usually completed in a single session, more extensive or intricate cases may require longer operative times or additional laser passes. The more complex the treatment, the higher the cost.
Anesthesia, facility fees, and aftercare: Many patients overlook the additional costs associated with anesthesia (local vs. general), the facility (hospital vs. private surgery center), and post-treatment care, including compression garments, lymphatic massage, and follow-up visits.
What’s Typically Included in the Cost?
When you receive a cost estimate from a qualified plastic surgeon, make sure you understand exactly what’s included. A complete estimate should account for:
- The surgeon’s professional fee
- Facility or operating room fees
- Anesthesia (if needed)
- Pre-operative testing and medical clearance
- Post-operative supplies, such as compression garments and dressings
- Follow-up visits and after-care instructions
If something is missing from your quote, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. A transparent, all-inclusive estimate helps you compare options fairly and ensures there are no surprise expenses later.
Smartlipo vs. Traditional Liposuction: Comparing Value
Compared to traditional liposuction, Smartlipo offers some unique advantages. The procedure utilizes laser-assisted technology to liquefy fat before removal, which typically results in less tissue trauma, a quicker recovery, and a degree of skin tightening due to the laser’s heat.
From a value standpoint, Smartlipo can be an excellent investment for those seeking smooth, refined contouring. We also perform Smartlipo 360 if you’re looking to target multiple areas, such as back fat and love handles, in addition to the abdomen and flanks. You can read about targeting trouble spots with liposuction in an earlier blog post.
How are liposuction and Smartlipo the same?
Tumescent liposuction and Smartlipo actually share many benefits. Both traditional lipo and Smartlipo offer:
- Small incisions
- Minimal scarring
- Nominal downtime and recovery
What additional features does Smartlipo offer?
Traditional liposuction is an excellent option for many people, but Smartlipo offers some additional benefits, including:
- It may or may not require general anesthesia depending on the area treated.
- Its laser causes surrounding blood vessels to coagulate, diminishing blood loss.
- It stimulates collagen to mildly tighten the skin.
Financing Smartlipo®
Since Smartlipo and other liposuction procedures are elective and not covered by insurance, many patients choose to finance their treatments. Most practices, including mine, offer flexible payment options to make body-contouring more accessible.
During your consultation, we can review several financing options, including third-party medical lenders like CareCredit. This allows you to manage the investment comfortably while still achieving your aesthetic goals. Many patients find that spreading the cost over time makes it easier to move forward with confidence.
If you’re considering Smartlipo in the San Jose area, we’ll provide a customized quote and review all the factors influencing your price. The first step is to request a consultation using the online form or by calling us at (650) 325-1118.


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