While liposuction is a fat removal procedure, weight loss isn’t considered a primary goal of the body contouring surgery. The ultimate goal of liposuction is to resculpt the body rather than achieve weight loss; therefore, the best candidates are those who are already close to their ideal body weight, but have localized fat deposits that do not respond well to dieting and exercise. That said, many patients inquire about the maximum amount of fat that can be removed during liposuction.
Although it was generally recommended to limit the volume of fat removed to about 5 liters (or approximately 11 pounds), the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) has recently suggested that a patient’s needs and anatomical indicators are more relevant to determining a “cutoff” point. Traditionally, the 5 L limit was considered a good rule of thumb to minimize the risk of potential complications during liposuction. Nowadays, the ASPS advises the specific amount of fat that should be removed during a liposuction procedure depends on various factors, including a patient’s body weight, overall health, the number of areas being treated, and their goals. According to board-certified plastic surgeon David Bottger, MD, an ethical plastic surgeon should aim to achieve a balance between effective fat removal and maintaining a patient’s safety and well-being.
Always consult with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Bottger to discuss the most effective approach for your specific situation. Contact our team today at our Philadelphia office to learn more, or if you’re ready to book an initial consultation.