What are flanks - hips or love handles? (photos)

Question

I'm getting a full tummy tuck with limited lipo and suggestions

Shlomo Widder, MD · Answer

Dear Summer,    Thanks for submitting your pictures. From observing your pictures, you appear to be a very good candidate for tummy tuck, however, I would not recommend to combine tummy tuck with liposuction , due to the significant increase in severe complication rate , when combining the two.   In a recent article in the plastic surgery journal that was based on data from cosmetic surgery only insurance company, it was revealed that combining tummy tuck with liposuction, increases the complication rate X 10 in comparison to tummy tuck alone . Additionally, in the state of Florida, it is illegal to perform tummy tuck with liposuction of over 1000 cc (relatively, very small amount). That was legislated after the  state investigated a very high rate of  severe complications in plastic surgery centers, including many deaths.    Obviously, it is your decision, however, in my opinion, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. More over, many of my tummy tuck patients lose significant amount of weight after tummy tuck, due to the abdominal muscles tightening, which reduces the amount of food that you can eat and your sense of hunger. So, you might not require liposuction after all. Only about 10% of my patients request liposuction after tummy tuck.    Always, consult with experienced board certified plastic surgeons who operate in accredited surgery center for your safety. Most importantly, check the before and after pictures in the photo gallery, to make sure that they are numerous, consistent and attractive with flat stomach, tight and youthful skin, nice belly button, improved body posture and low scar.                               Best of luck,                                                        Dr Widder

William Franckle, MD, FACS · Answer

The flanks are the area that commonly referred to as the love handles. Many times liposuction of the flank area is combined with a tummy tuck to give a smooth and tight abdomen from all around. Good luck with your procedure!

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

They are the love handles. They are the area that is between your waist and your hips. Good luck with your upcoming surgery.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your decision to proceed with tummy tuck surgery. You are correct in that semantics can be confusing;  in order to avoid confusion, best to communicate your areas of concerns, goals and your plastic surgeon's plans in front of a full length mirror.  Working together you will come up with a good plan to achieve an outcome that you will be pleased with. Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Each office refers to areas differently.  Waist, and flanks, are the same but the hips are different.  ....

What are flanks - hips or love handles? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: What are flanks - hips or love handles?

Answer: What are flanks - hips or love handles?

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What are flanks - hips or love handles? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: What are flanks - hips or love handles?

Answer: What are flanks - hips or love handles?

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.