X5 4.8i: Is it possible to remove oil filter without draining oil?

[Bmwfvr]

So during my last oil change for my 2007 X5 4.8i, I think I forgot to replace the small oil filter housing drain o-ring.. now it's showing a little bit of seepage .. not too bad ..

so I am wondering, is it possible to just remove the oil filter housing without draining the pan? I know I would lose the oil in the filter housing so will need to top off after reinstalling ..

Thanks in advance,