What is considered flanks? (photos)

Question

What is the flanks? Is it the front AND backside of hips? I had a full tt and lypo of the flanks. Now that i am 6 weeks post and the swelling has gone down i realize my back hips are still muffins. Are the flanks only the front hips? Now i feel out of proportion

George Marosan, MD · Answer

The dictionary definition of flanks is the area of an animal's or person's body area between the ribs and the hip or pelvic bone. Your finger points to the top of the hip bone and the area above it, is considered the flank. A full tummy tuck and lipo of the flanks is what most plastic surgeons do and if you did not have a thorough discussion about this during the preop meeting, I can see how this could be misunderstood. First of all, in my practice, when I discuss TT and liposuction with my patients, I emphasize that I need to address the whole torso with liposuction, otherwise you get the results you ended up with. Many times patients don't understand this and think that you want to "talk them into other procedures". To me, this is how I can achieve a balanced and optimal results, but I do understand that not everyone wants this or want to commit financially. You are only 6 weeks postop and your shape might still improve. If it stays the same, you can always have additional contouring with liposuction to achieve your goal. Wait at least 6 months, than talk to your surgeon how to refine your body shape. Good luck.

Lane Smith, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Your flank region can best be described as the area  of the lower back that starts below the rib-cage and down to the iliac crest.  Some residual operative swelling, six weeks after surgery, is natural.  If you are truly concerned with the swelling however, you should not hesitate to contact your plastic surgeon.Best regards,Dr. Lane F. Smith, MDPlastic SurgeonLas Vegas, NV

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

It's a good question. Flanks are on the backside (where you are pointing in the photograph). Six weeks after surgery, you're likely still having some swelling. It will take almost 6 months to see your final result. If you have concerns, it's best to direct those questions to your surgeon.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

can come from excess skin and jeans that too tight as well... liposuction is designed to provide a smoother contour when undressed.  And flanks are the area between the spine and the hip bone where the waist line is located.  If you were charged for flanks, you should have a small scar on your backside as well.

Ali Mosharrafa, MD · Answer

Simply put, your flanks are the back of your waistline.  This area is generally treated with liposuction.  Hope this helps.  Dr. Ali Mosharrafa

What is considered flanks? (photos)

Answers (5)