Understanding Florida’s New Liposuction Regulations for Enhanced Patient Safety

Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1561 into law on May 11, introducing several consumer protections for patients undergoing liposuction, including Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs). These measures aim to enhance safety and accountability in office surgery centers across Florida.

Key Aspects of HB 1561:

Fat Removal Requirements:

New Rule: Physicians performing liposuction removing over 1,000 cc of supernatant fat must register their offices with the Florida Department of Health, whether the fat is temporarily or permanently removed.
Impact: This includes BBL procedures, ensuring all relevant office surgery centers comply with the registration requirement.
Increased Fines for Non-Compliance:

New Rule: Surgeons performing liposuction of more than 1,000 cc of fat in unregistered centers face fines of $5,000 per procedure.
Impact: The revised fine structure significantly increases the financial risk for non-compliant doctors, discouraging unregistered practices.
Mandatory Liability Coverage for BBLs:

New Rule: Doctors must have professional liability coverage of at least $250,000 per claim and $750,000 annually, or maintain an irrevocable letter of credit for these amounts.
Impact: This prevents doctors from practicing without insurance, providing better financial protection for patients in case of malpractice.
Surgery Center Coverage:

New Rule: Office surgery centers must establish financial responsibility equivalent to the liability coverage required for doctors.
Impact: Ensures centers cannot evade accountability by claiming doctors are independent contractors, offering better recourse for patients.
These new regulations, affecting places like Xiluet Plastic Surgery in Miami, aim to protect consumers by ensuring that both doctors and surgery centers have adequate financial safeguards in place. This change provides patients with greater assurance of compensation in the event of medical malpractice, promoting higher standards of care in cosmetic procedures.