How Much Does Laser Fat-Removal Surgery Cost?

If you’ve been religiously following a diet and exercise routine but have some problem areas that won’t seem to trim down, laser fat-removal surgery might just be for you. Learn more about the procedure and the cost of laser fat removal before signing up for a consultation.

What Is Laser Fat-Removal Surgery?

Laser fat-removal surgery is similar to traditional liposuction in that it helps get rid of fat cells quickly. It differs in that it’s a non-invasive procedure. It doesn’t remove the fat cells either, but rather shrinks them. The lasers penetrate the cells and cause them to empty out the fat. Your body then burns the fat for energy or removes it via the lymphatic system. A cooling mechanism ensures that your skin is not damaged in the process, notes the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.

Ideal Candidates for the Procedure

Not everyone is a candidate for the laser fat-removal surgery. Fewer people are eligible for this procedure than for traditional lipo. It’s not designed for people who are obese or have a significant amount of weight to lose. Those looking into this procedure should already be leading a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and regular activity. Other criteria include:

• 25 pounds or less above ideal weight
• Are concerned about problem areas rather than weight loss
• Women who are not pregnant or trying to become pregnant
• Do not have a pacemaker
• Are able to stick to the rigorous treatment schedule

Surgery Treatment Schedule

Laser fat-removal surgery sessions don’t take a lot of time out of your day, but you do have to attend multiple sessions per week. Patients typically undergo two to three treatments each week and each session lasts about 25 minutes, notes the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Some might begin to see noticeable results in a few sessions, but for most it takes about six weeks. A minimum treatment schedule is four weeks, and some take as long as 12 weeks.

Laser Fat-Removal Surgery Effectiveness

As with many other treatments, the effectiveness of laser fat-removal surgery varies. Those who don’t adopt a lifestyle conducive to keeping the weight and fat off will gain it back. The FDA has approved the procedure for the abdomen and flanks. Doctors may also help slim the arms or perform double chin removal surgery with this procedure.

Cost of Laser Fat-Removal Surgery

The average cost of this non-surgical fat reduction is $1,481 on average, reports the American Society of Plastic Surgery. The costs vary depending on the size of the area that you want to treat as well as the physician performing the surgery. This procedure is not usually covered by insurance. Coupons, discounts and payment plans are often available to reduce the cost.