Discover The Differences Between J-Plasma & SmartLipo Treatments
If you’re researching non-surgical or minimally invasive solutions for firmer skin and a more contoured figure, you’ve likely come across J-Plasma (also known as Renuvion). This technology is often praised for its ability to tighten skin using helium plasma and radiofrequency energy to contract collagen and improve skin tone.
However, what many patients don’t realize is that J-Plasma alone does not remove fat. It is not a fat reduction procedure and does not include liposuction.
To achieve meaningful body contouring results, J-Plasma typically needs to be paired with some form of liposuction to first remove underlying fat. Without it, the treatment cannot effectively tighten areas where fat is still present—making the overall procedure more invasive and extending recovery time.
At WIFH in Atlanta, we specialize in SmartLipo (LaserLipo), performed exclusively by Dr. Paul Cox, one of the first physicians trained in SmartLipo back in 2007. With over two decades of experience and thousands of successful laser liposuction procedures completed without complications, Dr. Cox brings an unmatched level of expertise and precision to every treatment.
SmartLipo (LaserLipo) is a laser-assisted liposuction procedure that combines fat removal and skin tightening in one comprehensive treatment. It uses laser energy to liquefy fat for easier removal while simultaneously stimulating collagen production to tighten the skin.
This dual-action approach minimizes trauma, reduces downtime, and enhances skin elasticity — all under local anesthesia, making it a safe and highly effective alternative to more invasive surgical procedures.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What J-Plasma is and how it works
- Why J-Plasma is usually combined with liposuction
- How J-Plasma compares to SmartLipo in terms of treatment areas, results, cost, downtime, and more
- Why SmartLipo may be the smarter choice for patients looking for fat reduction and skin tightening in a single procedure
What is J-Plasma?
J-Plasma, also referred to as Renuvion, is a skin tightening procedure that combines cold helium plasma with radiofrequency (RF) energy to contract and firm tissue just beneath the skin’s surface.
The treatment delivers controlled heat to the deeper layers of the skin, which causes immediate contraction and stimulates long-term collagen remodeling. It’s performed beneath the skin, not on the surface, making it unique compared to traditional RF (radiofrequency) or laser devices.
Where is J-Plasma Used?
J-Plasma is commonly used in areas with mild to moderate skin laxity, including:
- The neck and jawline (to improve skin laxity and definition)
- The abdomen (often post-pregnancy or post-weight loss)
- The arms and thighs (for loose skin not responsive to exercise)
While Renuvion is highly effective for tightening, it does not remove fat. For patients with both fat and lax skin, it’s generally recommended in conjunction with some form of liposuction (Traditional, Tumescent, Power-Assisted Liposuction, Vaser Liposuction).
Liposuction first removes fat, and then J-Plasma is used to help the skin retract more smoothly over the newly contoured area.
What is J-Plasma With Liposuction?
J-Plasma with liposuction is a two-part body contouring treatment combining fat removal with skin tightening. Here’s how it works:
- Liposuction is performed first to suction out localized fat from target areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or arms.
- J-Plasma (Renuvion) is then introduced under the skin via a cannula to deliver thermal energy and trigger tissue contraction.
This combo is typically recommended when skin laxity may be an issue following fat removal. For example, patients over 40 or those with post-weight loss skin are common candidates. However, it’s important to consider that combining these two procedures means:
- Longer procedure time: Because J-Plasma must be performed after liposuction, treatment sessions are typically more extensive and can take up to 5 hours depending on the number of areas being addressed.
- Higher overall cost: Since J-Plasma and liposuction are two separate technologies, combining them often results in increased treatment costs compared to single-procedure solutions like SmartLipo.
- More involved recovery: Patients should be prepared for a more strenuous recovery with extensive bruising, swelling, and tenderness for at least 2 weeks following their procedure. Because this procedure involves greater tissue trauma, full recovery may take several weeks. Compression garments must be worn for 4–6 weeks to help manage swelling, support tissue retraction, and promote optimal results- a standard for most liposuction procedures.
While J-Plasma (Renuvion) is widely marketed for skin tightening, it’s important to know that it is only FDA-cleared for use on the neck and under the chin as of July 15, 2022. It is not approved for full-body aesthetic skin tightening, which is a key factor to consider when assessing its overall safety and effectiveness.
What is Smartlipo?
SmartLipo laser liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to melt fat and stimulate collagen production — all at once.
Unlike traditional liposuction paired with J-Plasma, which requires two separate steps and results in more trauma to the body, SmartLipo delivers fat reduction and skin tightening in a single, streamlined treatment with less downtime and a gentler recovery.
Smartlipo Before & After Photos
SmartLipo results for Arms, Bra Roll (upper & lower), & Flanks (8 weeks post-procedure) and Abdomen (4 months post-procedure) performed by Dr. Cox. These WIFH Atlanta patients saw targeted fat reduction and noticeable skin tightening in one Smartlipo procedure.
A Safe, Effective Method for Laser Liposuction
Originally FDA-approved in 2006, SmartLipo was the first laser liposuction technology introduced in the U.S. At WIFH, we launched our SmartLipo program in 2008 after carefully reviewing its clinical data and consistently successful results.
SmartLipo is an ideal solution for patients struggling to reduce fat in areas resistant to diet and exercise. Common treatment areas include:
- Abdomen (upper and lower) or 360
- Chin
- Flanks (love handles)
- Inner and outer thighs
- Upper Bra Fat and Lower Bra Fat (Bra Roll)
- Upper arms
- Double chin and jawline
- Male chest (gynecomastia)
How Does Smartlipo Work?
Using a small cannula and a specialized laser fiber, SmartLipo works by:
- Melting and liquefying fat cells, making them easier to remove
- Stimulating collagen production, which results in tighter, firmer skin over time
- Minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue, reducing bruising and speeding recovery
At WIFH in Atlanta, we exclusively use the Smartlipo Triplex platform, the most advanced version of the device. With three laser wavelengths, it allows for deeper tissue heating and more effective skin tightening than lower-powered systems or combination treatments like J-Plasma with liposuction.
With fewer incisions, less trauma to surrounding tissue, and most patients returning to normal activities within just 1–3 days, SmartLipo is a powerful alternative to J-Plasma with liposuction — offering streamlined results and a faster recovery.
J-Plasma With Liposuction vs. SmartLipo
When considering body contouring treatments, patients often ask how J-Plasma (Renuvion) with Liposuction stacks up against SmartLipo (LaserLipo) — especially when it comes to:
- Fat removal
- Skin tightening
- Recovery time,
- Cost
While both procedures aim to sculpt and firm the body, their technologies, treatment approaches, and overall patient experiences are quite different. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve broken down the most important features side-by-side.
| Feature | J-Plasma With Lipo | SmartLipo (LaserLipo) |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Type | Two separate procedures | One laser-assisted liposuction procedure |
| Technology | Cold helium plasma & radiofrequency (RF) | Laser lipolysis |
| Fat Removal | Requires traditional liposuction | Yes, laser-assisted liposuction is included in conjunction with skin tightening |
| Skin Tightening | Yes | Yes |
| Downtime | 2-3 weeks (depending on liposuction method) | 1-3 days |
| Cost | $6,000-$12,000 | $2,500-$7,500 (price may vary based on amount of areas) |
| Recovery Comfort | More swelling, bruising | Less swelling and bruising (if any), smoother recovery |
| Best For | Mild to moderate laxity with fat | Body sculpting – fat removal + skin tightening |
| Anesthesia | General anesthesia | Awake laser lipo. Local anesthetic to the area being addressed (numbing fluid) |
J-Plasma Treatment Areas vs. SmartLipo Treatment Areas
When it comes to body contouring, the treatment areas a procedure can effectively target are just as important as the results it delivers. Both J-Plasma (Renuvion) and SmartLipo (LaserLipo) are used to tighten and reshape the body, but they differ significantly in their versatility and effectiveness across different regions.
In this guide, we’ll compare which areas are commonly treated with each procedure — and why SmartLipo (LaserLipo) may offer more flexibility and precision when it comes to sculpting stubborn, hard-to-tone spots.
| Area | J-Plasma | SmartLipo (LaserLipo) |
|---|---|---|
| Abdomen | ✓ | ✓ |
| Arms | ✓ | ✓ |
| Neck/Chin | ✓ | ✓ |
| Inner Thighs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Outer Thighs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Upper and Lower Bra Fat | ✗ | ✓ |
| Flanks | ✗ | ✓ |
| Knees | Limited | ✓ |
**J-Plasma is not a fat removal procedure and does not include liposuction. For effective skin tightening, liposuction must first be performed to remove underlying fat. Without it, J-Plasma alone cannot deliver optimal results in areas where fat is still present.
J-Plasma Preparation vs. SmartLipo Preparation
Before undergoing any body contouring procedure, it’s important to understand the preparation involved. J-Plasma with liposuction requires more planning and surgical setup, while SmartLipo offers a faster, more convenient in-office experience.
J-Plasma with Liposuction:
- Requires comprehensive preoperative clearance, including bloodwork, physical evaluation, and sometimes imaging depending on the patient’s health.
- Most cases require general anesthesia, which introduces additional risks and recovery time.
- Performed in a hospital or accredited surgical center, which can add to the overall cost and complexity.
- The procedure is performed in two phases—first traditional liposuction to remove fat, then J-Plasma for skin tightening.
SmartLipo at WIFH:
- Performed in-office at WIFH, requiring no general anesthesia—only local tumescent anesthesia (numbing fluid) is used in the area we’re addressing.
- Minimal pre-op is required. On the day of your procedure, we’ll take your blood pressure, measurements, and pre-treatment photos. If you’ve chosen to take a mild sedative like Xanax, it will be administered approximately one hour before the procedure.
- The procedure is performed using a powerful laser-assisted device, reducing time of the procedure.
- SmartLipo combines fat melting, removal, and skin tightening into one seamless procedure.
SmartLipo (LaserLipo) offers a more convenient and less intensive preparation process. Performed entirely in-office under local anesthesia, it eliminates the need for a surgical center or general anesthesia.
With minimal pre-op requirements, it’s an excellent option for patients seeking effective results with less stress and downtime.
J-Plasma Treatment Length vs. SmartLipo Length
Procedure time is a major factor for many patients balancing treatment with busy schedules. While both J-Plasma and SmartLipo deliver body sculpting results, SmartLipo is often significantly more efficient in terms of treatment time.
J-Plasma with Liposuction:
- Procedure time ranges from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the number of treatment areas and the complexity of fat removal.
- Involves two separate devices and procedural steps, which increases the time spent in surgery.
- Additional time is required for anesthesia induction and recovery due to general anesthesia being used in most cases.
SmartLipo:
- Most SmartLipo sessions take approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on how many areas are being treated.
- The procedure is performed entirely with one device, with no need to switch equipment or pause between fat removal and skin tightening.
- Since it’s done under local anesthesia, there’s no extended recovery period post-treatment—patients can walk out shortly after their procedure.
SmartLipo (LaserLipo) is designed for efficiency, combining fat reduction and skin tightening in a single, in-office procedure. With minimal downtime and no general anesthesia, patients can return to normal activities quickly — making it an ideal option for those seeking fast, noticeable results with less interruption to their routine.
J-Plasma Side Effects vs. SmartLipo Side Effects
Understanding potential side effects is essential when considering a body contouring procedure. While both J-Plasma with liposuction and SmartLipo aim to sculpt the body and tighten skin, their side effect profiles differ due to the nature of each treatment.
J-Plasma with Liposuction Side Effects:
J-Plasma combines radiofrequency and helium plasma with liposuction, which results in a more intensive treatment—and therefore more pronounced side effects:
- Swelling, bruising, and soreness are common and can persist for 2 to 4 weeks, especially in larger treatment areas.
- Skin sensitivity, firmness, or a “tight” sensation may develop due to the thermal energy used for skin tightening.
- Patients may also experience temporary numbness or areas of prolonged tenderness during the healing phase.
- The combination of fat removal and skin contraction can lead to a longer recovery timeline compared to non-surgical or single-modality options.
SmartLipo Side Effects:
SmartLipo (LaserLipo) uses laser technology to liquefy fat before removal, resulting in fewer complications and an easier healing process. Most patients can expect:
- Minimal swelling and bruising, the laser cauterizes small blood vessels during fat removal which results in less bleeding, limits tissue trauma, and promotes a faster recovery.
- Mild discomfort in the treated area once the local anesthetic wears off, typically resolving within a few days.
- Low risk of prolonged numbness or sensitivity, with most patients reporting only temporary sensation loss.
Unlike traditional liposuction, which often requires general anesthesia or IV sedation, SmartLipo is performed while the patient is awake under local anesthetic. This greatly reduces the risks associated with deeper forms of sedation and shortens overall recovery time.
For patients who feel anxious about being awake during the procedure, we offer additional comfort options:
- Oral sedatives, prescribed by Cox, can be taken prior to the procedure to help patients feel more relaxed.
- Pro-Nox, a patient-controlled inhaled analgesia (similar to laughing gas), is available to ease anxiety. It takes effect quickly and leaves the system within minutes of stopping use, allowing patients to drive themselves home afterward if needed as long as no oral narcotics were taken.
These options ensure SmartLipo remains a low-risk, body contouring solution—perfect for those seeking dramatic results with less downtime.
J-Plasma Aftercare vs. SmartLipo Aftercare
Understanding what recovery looks like after your body contouring procedure is essential for achieving optimal results. Proper aftercare not only supports healing but also plays a key role in skin tightening, minimizing swelling, and reducing downtime.
J-Plasma with Liposuction Recovery
Because J-Plasma combines traditional liposuction with helium plasma energy, the recovery process is more intensive and requires careful management:
- Surgical drains may be placed in larger treatment areas to help prevent fluid accumulation and support proper healing.
- Incision care and follow-up visits are critical for monitoring healing and removing any sutures if needed.
- Compression garments must be worn continuously for 4 to 6 weeks to help reduce swelling and assist with skin retraction.
- Post-procedure symptoms such as bruising, swelling, and tenderness can last several weeks. Some patients also report temporary skin firmness or sensitivity.
- Downtime is longer—many patients need several weeks before feeling fully recovered and ready to return to all normal activities.
- Post-surgical lymphatic drainage massages are often recommended, especially when larger areas are treated to reduce swelling, fluid retention, and minimize the risk of fibrosis.
SmartLipo Recovery at WIFH
SmartLipo (LaserLipo) provides a minimally invasive recovery experience, making it an ideal choice for patients looking to achieve noticeable results with minimal downtime and interruption to daily life:
- No surgical drains are needed—tiny incisions are left open to allow for natural fluid drainage, helping reduce inflammation and speed up healing.
- Compression garments are typically worn for up to 4-6 weeks post-procedure.
- Incision care is simple and does not involve stitches, making at-home maintenance easier and more comfortable.
- Most patients resume light activity within 1 to 3 days, with many returning to work shortly after the procedure.
- Results can be seen in as little as 4 weeks after the procedure, with continued improvement over the next 3 to 6 months as your body naturally boosts collagen production—gradually tightening the skin and refining contours for a smoother, more sculpted appearance.
SmartLipo results for Chin/Jawline (4 weeks post-procedure) and Abdomen (4.5 months post-procedure) performed by Dr. Cox. These WIFH Atlanta patients saw targeted fat reduction and noticeable skin tightening after one Smartlipo procedure at WIFH Atlanta.
- We recommend all Smartlipo patients receive post-surgical lymphatic drainage massages to support a smoother recovery and optimize their results. We refer our patients to trusted local experts who specialize in post-surgical massages, ensuring expert care throughout your healing process.
Whether you choose J-Plasma with liposuction or SmartLipo, following your physician’s aftercare instructions is vital to achieving the best possible results.
J-Plasma Cost vs. SmartLipo Cost
When considering body contouring, cost is often a key factor in choosing the right treatment. While both J-Plasma with liposuction and SmartLipo (LaserLipo) deliver impressive results, their pricing structures reflect differences in technology, invasiveness, and recovery time. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of each procedure.
| Area | J-Plasma | SmartLipo (LaserLipo) |
|---|---|---|
| Abdomen | $4,500-$8,000 | $4,500-$7,500 |
| Arms | $3,500-$7,500 | $3,700-$4,500 |
| Neck/Chin | $2,500-$5,500 | $2,000-$3,000 |
| Inner Thighs | $4,000-$8,000 | $3,600-$4,600 |
| Outer Thighs or Saddle Bags | $4,000-$8,000 | $3,000-$4,600 |
| Upper and Lower Bra Fat | ✗ | $3,800-$4,800 |
| Flanks or Love Handles | ✗ | $3,600-$4,200 |
| Men’s Chest | ✗ | $3,900-$5,800 |
*J-Plasma price without liposuction.
Considering J-Plasma or Smartlipo in Atlanta? Let’s Talk About Your Options.
If you’re researching body contouring treatments, it’s important to understand how different procedures compare in terms of safety, effectiveness, and recovery. At WIFH, we specialize in SmartLipo laser liposuction—a minimally invasive procedure that combines fat reduction and skin tightening in a single procedure.
Unlike traditional liposuction or procedures like J-Plasma with liposuction, SmartLipo is performed under local anesthesia, significantly reducing downtime and minimizing risks. The laser melts fat and stimulates collagen production, helping to sculpt and firm the treated areas with precision.
SmartLipo has a long-standing track record of safety and high patient satisfaction. With a healthy lifestyle and proper aftercare, patients often see long-lasting body contouring results and improved skin firmness.
Wondering if it’s right for you? Schedule a complimentary SmartLipo consultation—in-office or virtual—with Dr. Cox. He’ll evaluate your goals and create a personalized treatment plan designed just for you. Contact us to book your free consultation today and take the first step toward a more sculpted, confident you.
