How Much Fat Can Be Safely Removed During Liposuction?

While liposuction is the removal of fat, it is not about dropping numbers on the scale but, rather, achieving ideal body contours. Many people considering liposuction often ask how much fat can safely be removed during a single procedure. Does liposuction have fat removal limits? How much liposuction is safe for an individual? Here we look at the current guidelines and what research has shown regarding safe liposuction limits. 

Current Liposuction Guidelines 

Current guidelines from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons list the guidelines as 5,000 milliliters (five liters) as the large-volume fat removal limit. On average, this amount equals around 11 pounds. However, in general, most surgeons limit the removal to three to four liters or between six and eight pounds. If more fat removal is necessary, multiple sessions are recommended. 

Risks of Removing Too Much Fat at One Time

When considering liposuction, the most important thing to remember is that liposuction is not a tool for weight loss, and finding the right surgeon is essential. To get the best results from liposuction, you need to be at or near your ideal body weight, with liposuction targeting areas of stubborn fat and enhancing your body contours. When you consider removing more fat than the current guidelines, you can increase your risk of complications. These complications can include:

• Infection
• An increased build-up of fluid could affect breathing
• Fat embolism
• Blood clots
• Dehydration-induced shock
• Reactions to the anesthesia
• Seroma and hematoma formations

If you are considering liposuction to refine and contour your body, Dr. Scot Martin and his team are ready to meet with you and create an individualized liposuction plan to achieve your goals. Call 575-521-7111 to schedule a consultation and take the first step to achieving your body contouring goals.