In general case, we observe the use of several stages for liquid mixture separation by liquid-liquid extraction process? Does the of one stage with great quantity of solvent and optimized operating conditions cannot be efficient?
Normally you uses process stages to optimize the efficiency of extraction.
If you have only one stage with a very very large quantity of solvent (above the minimum dictated by equilibrium) them you have to separate to distill. Or in other words you have to look for the whole process to save energy. Also working with different arrangements (co-current, counter current and cross flow) you can minimize the extractor agent quantity)