What is the maximum amount of fat that can be removed in a single liposuction session of total body liposuction?

The standard of care in the U.S. has become a maximum of 5 liters of fat (supranatant fluid) to be removed at one time. Keep in mind that patients can achieve the results they want with a combination of liposuction, ultrasound/RF treatments and fat grafting in order to help with fat removal, contouring, skin tightening and toning. So it's more about doing the right combination of treatments for the desired results. Best, Dr. Emer

Thank you for your question. While you can liposuction several areas at once there is a limit to how much fat can be removed safely. Risks from liposuction increase significantly when over 5 liters of fat are suctioned out. We usually stay below this limit for patient safety. We’ve found that we’re able to achieve dramatic improvements for our patients with 2 to 4 liters of liposuction, depending on their needs.

The limits on liposuction remain a point of contention and debate. The generally accepted limit is 5 liters of lipoaspirate (combination of fat, blood, tumescent fluid). However, recent studies suggest the limit may be variable and seems to be associated with BMI. Higher BMI can safely tolerate higher volume liposuction. The primary concern in either case is related to fluid shifts and the physiologic consequences (Remember...studies have shown that nearly 70% of tumescent fluid is absorbed...depending upon the relative timing of tumescent and aspiration).

Overall, it is important to remember that the goal of liposuction is an improved contour and not weight loss. Even at the 5 liter limit, a patient is losing less than 10 lbs. of fat within the lipoaspirate.



As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon. 

The guidelines regarding what is often called "large volume liposuction" can vary; the term has no strict definition. Most plastic surgeons believe the maximum amount of fat that should be removed during liposuction is 4 liters (5 liters if you include the tumescent solution that's typically used). Some surgeons believe the guideline is somewhat arbitrary because it doesn't take into account a patient's body mass index (BMI) or other unique characteristics. Regardless, the guidelines underscore an important point: Liposuction is a body contouring procedure — not a weight loss procedure.

Thank you for the question! Typically, plastic surgeons will use liposuction to remove up to 5 liters of fat (or lipoaspirate). However, this amount will vary depending on the patient's weight and BMI. This question should be decided during a consultation with your surgeon. 

An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon would be the best way to assess your situation and guarantee an individualized medical advice. Best of luck! Dr. Michael Omidi.