AWAKE SMARTLIPO IN LOS ANGELES AND BEVERLY HILLS

You should have someone drive you home after SmartLipo since you will have taken pain medication.

SmartLipo™ is an advanced liposuction technique that incorporates laser technology for improved safety and efficacy. It is often referred to as laser liposuction. During a SmartLipo™ treatment, the laser energy melts targeted fat cells while simultaneously tightening skin tissue. This improves patient results by creating a smoother, natural shape.

The recovery period can range between a few days to a few weeks, depending on the location and extent of your treatment. In most cases, patients are encouraged to rest for a few days and are able to return to work and other activities within a week of treatment.

Yes. Local anesthesia is usually used during SmartLipo treatment so you will be awake but relaxed and numbed.

The cost of your treatment will vary depending on the size of the treated area and the extent of treatment required to help you achieve your desired results. Dr. Berger will discuss the details of your treatment including the cost at the time of your one-on-one consultation. For your convenience, we offer multiple financing options to keep your treatments as affordable as possible. Pricing does not include lab work, medical exams and facility fees.

Many patients find that SmartLipo™ is a better alternative to traditional liposuction, as it offers improved safety and a shorter recovery period. However, traditional liposuction has also become safer and more effective in recent years. At Rejuvalife, our liposuction treatments incorporate advanced technologies that eliminate the need for general anesthesia and great lengths of downtime. With our techniques, you can enjoy a minimally invasive treatment that can be performed with mild oral sedation, local tumescent anesthesia, or Pro-Nox nitrous oxide gas. In this sense, you may find that each treatment offers similar benefits. To determine which treatment is best for you, you'll want to discuss your treatment goals with your doctor.

The SmartLipo™ procedure permanently removes the targeted fat cells. However, this does not mean your results are permanent. To maintain your results as long as possible, you need to practice healthy diet and exercise habits after your treatment.

SmartLipo can be used to treat various areas of the body where excess fat is commonly found, including the abdomen, thighs, hips, and buttocks. It is also effective for contouring smaller areas such as the chin, neck, and upper arms. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to target localized fat deposits and improve body contours.

The final results of SmartLipo typically become visible within 3 to 6 months after the procedure. While some initial improvement can be seen within a week or two as swelling subsides, the body continues to eliminate fat cells and tighten the treated area over several months. The exact timeline can vary depending on individual healing processes and the specific areas treated.

We perform SmartLipo right here in the office using local anesthesia, so you're completely awake and comfortable the entire time. A tiny laser fiber is inserted under the skin through a small incision — the laser melts the fat, which is then gently removed. Most patients describe the sensation as pressure or tugging, but not pain. The beauty of this approach is that it’s efficient, precise, and you walk out the same day.

We use a tumescent local anesthetic that thoroughly numbs the treatment area, so while you’re awake, you’re not in pain. You might feel some light pressure or warmth from the laser, but nothing sharp or distressing. If needed, I can also offer a mild oral sedative to help you relax. My goal is to ensure you’re fully at ease from start to finish.

Depending on the area we're treating, most procedures take between 60 to 150 minutes. Smaller zones like under the chin go quickly, while larger areas like the abdomen take a bit longer. The entire office visit may last up to 3 hours with prep and recovery. But the key point is you go home the same day, with no general anesthesia or hospital stay.

SmartLipo is incredibly versatile. I commonly treat areas like the abdomen, love handles, arms, thighs, neck, chin, bra line, and even the knees. It’s ideal for those stubborn spots that don’t respond to diet or exercise. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your shape or enhance overall definition, we can tailor it to your needs.

For awake, in-office SmartLipo, we typically remove up to 1 to 2 liters of fat - that’s enough to create a meaningful contour improvement. This isn’t a weight-loss procedure, but it’s excellent for sculpting and reshaping. Safety is always the priority, and we follow strict guidelines to protect your well-being. If more fat needs to be addressed, we can plan a staged treatment approach.

This is one of SmartLipo’s greatest strengths. The laser doesn’t just melt fat - it also heats the deeper layers of your skin, triggering collagen and elastin production. That leads to noticeable skin tightening over the months following treatment. Traditional liposuction can leave loose skin behind, but SmartLipo helps avoid that by supporting natural firmness and retraction.

Recovery is typically smooth; most patients are back to regular daily activities within 1 to 3 days. You’ll wear a compression garment to help with swelling and to support the new contours. There may be mild soreness, swelling, or bruising for a few days, but it’s generally very manageable. For exercise and strenuous activity, I usually recommend waiting 7 to 10 days.

Yes, even though you’ll be fully awake, we do recommend having someone drive you home. You may feel a bit sore or tired after the procedure, and it’s safest to rest and recover comfortably. If we give you a mild sedative, you definitely shouldn’t drive. Having someone with you ensures a smooth and easy transition back home.

You’ll get personalized aftercare instructions tailored to your treatment area. That includes wearing a compression garment, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activity for about a week. I always schedule a follow-up to monitor your healing and ensure you're progressing beautifully. Results will continue to improve over the next few months as the body heals and the skin tightens.

I’ll review all your medications in advance and advise you to stop any blood thinners, aspirin, NSAIDs, or supplements that may increase bleeding risk a few days prior. Avoid alcohol the day before and after the procedure. A light meal before coming in is usually fine, but we’ll go over specific instructions based on your treatment plan. Afterward, stick to clean, hydrating foods to support recovery.

Most people return to work or light activity within 1 to 3 days, especially if they have a desk job. If your work is more physical, or you plan to exercise, I recommend giving your body a week to 10 days. SmartLipo allows for a faster recovery compared to traditional lipo, and with less bruising and swelling. You’ll be back to your routine with renewed confidence before you know it.