Cost of Laser Liposuction

Laser liposuction is more affordable than traditional liposuction

Among the many benefits of laser liposuction is the reduced cost, as compared to traditional liposuction. While laser lipo is generally less expensive than traditional liposuction, laser liposuction cost varies by region, the skill and experience level of the liposuction surgeon, the type of laser used in the surgery, and the size and number of areas designated for liposuction surgery. The costs can range from approximately $1500 to $15,000.

Choosing a Laser Liposuction Surgeon

Patients should not choose their laser lipo surgeon based on cost alone, however. It is important to consider a surgeon's experience and track record. Ask for references, and look at before and after photographs. Be sure to contact the references and ask the former patients how they rate their experience and the doctor. A little up-front homework might just save you from scheduling a second liposuction to repair the first one.

Range of Laser Liposuction Costs

Refer to the tables below for the approximate range of laser liposuction surgeon's fees. Some surgeons charge different rates for different areas of the body, with larger, more difficult areas costing more. Many surgeons charge a flat rate for each area of the body, generally with a reduced rate for additional areas.

Table 1 displays costs for specific areas of the body. Table 2 displays costs per area. These cost examples are for general information; check with your local provider for specific fees.

Table 1: Laser Lipo Cost Ranges by Specific Body Area
  Average Cost Lower Fees Higher Fees
Abdomen, Upper $4500 $3000 $10,000
Abdomen, Lower $3500 $2000 $9000
Back, Female $2500 $2000 $7000
Back, Male $3000 $2000 $8000
Buttocks $3000 $2000 $7000
Chin, Face, Jowls, or Neck $2500 $1500 $6000
Hips $2500 $1500 $6000
Male Breast $5000 $3500 $10,000
Knees $4000 $2500 $7000
Thighs $2500 $1500 $6000
 
Table 2: Laser Lipo Cost Ranges by Number of Body Areas
  Average Cost Lower Fees Higher Fees
First Area $4000 $2500 $6000
Additional Areas (each) $2000 $1200 $3000

Check with your liposuction doctor for exact rates, and keep in mind that additional charges can apply for facility usage, anesthesia, and compression garments, depending on your provider's policies. Review these policies with prospective providers before making any final decisions.

Reference List

2008 Average Surgeon/Physician Fees: Cosmetic Procedures. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Web site. 2009. http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Media/stats/2008-surgeon-physician-fees-cosmetic-surgery-minimally-invasive-procedures.pdf. Published 2009. Accessed Mar 24, 2009.

Belasco, J . A new you. San Antonio Express-News. March 23, 2009:C1. Available from: eLibrary, Proquest CSA. University of Houston. Accessed Mar 30, 2009.

Gray P. Forever Young. Money [serial online]. March 2007;36(3):90-95. Available from: Academic Search Complete, Ipswich, MA. Accessed March 30, 2009.

Kim K, Geronemus R. Laser Lipolysis Using a Novel 1,064 nm Nd:YAG Laser. Dermatologic Surgery [serial online]. February 2006;32(2):241-247. Available from: Academic Search Complete, Ipswich, MA. Accessed April 1, 2009.