What Area is Considered to Be a Normal Flank Region?

Most surgeons consider the flanks to be the area of the lower back below the rib-cage and down to the iliac crest; this area is commonly referred to as "love handles".  I would consider upper back rolls or back fat to be a separate area and would not be included in treatment of the flank.s  Typically this would be considered a second area of treatment and can be safely performed at the same time as the flanks, but it does require additional incisions and additional time for the surgeon to complete. Both areas respond very well to liposuction.  I currently prefer to use SmartLipo Triplex because of the quicker recovery, less bruising  and swelling, additional skin tightening,  and patients  are more comfortable after the procedure. If you really want both areas treated, it is much more cost effective to have both areas treated at the same time and should not double your cost.  Good luck to you.

The vast majority of plastic surgeons define the
flanks as the area between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the hips. This
terminology is less important than the patient’s specific anatomic findings and
aesthetic goals and sometimes contributes to confusion. It’s always better to
treat the anatomic problem as opposed to the anatomic area.

For these reasons, good communication between the surgeon
and patient is an essential component of quality care when performing
liposuction.

If you’re considering liposuction, it’s important
to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. This surgeon should be able to
illustrate which areas will be treated during this procedure.  

The goal of liposuction in this area to increase the contour of the waistline.  The excess fat below the bras sits just above the waistline.  This area is actually more difficult to treat than the flanks and is anatomically separate.  The fat can be more difficult to get out and you may be left with some loose skin.  It is extremely unusual to get loose skin after liposuction of the flanks.  

Hello SGBsMom, Liposuction is an excellent way to contour these troublesome areas. I prefer tumescent or ultrasonically assisted liposuction (UAL) for these regions. Although the flank and bras strap area are not strictly anatomical terms, most physicians make a distinction when it comes to liposuction. It is preferable to treat regions (bra strap area, back, flanks) rather than to spot treat areas (flanks). This gives a much more balanced and harmonious appearance. I generally blend in areas, such as the flanks and bra strap area and back, but if full correction is requested this is considered a separate area. At the time of your consultation visit, discuss your goals and together, you and your surgeon can put together a treatment plan. The number of areas, as well as the financial policy should be clarified at the time of your consultation. I would recommend treating all of the areas which you are concerned with at the time of surgery, rather than risk being disappointed and having to undergo another procedure. Be well, Andrew Lyos, M.D.,FACS

SGBsMom,
The area you are describing is not the flank. There is no strict definition for the flanks; however, when it comes to liposuction, the flanks are generally considered the area that you can grab with your hands above your hip bones. Just because you have a roll that goes into the flank area does not mean that this entire area is now considered the flank. In any case, it is up to your surgeon to decide. If you are not happy with their answer, then I would suggest getting a second opinion. However, the area you are describing would likely be considered an additional area by anyone performing liposuction. Good luck with your surgery.