Does the flank region include the side of the body?

Yes, the flanks refer to the sides of the stomach. For best results with this area, I recommend a hi definition procedure like VASER liposuction. I use VASER HI DEF with ThermRF and fat grafting to get the most fat removal, skin tightening, contour and definition. This combination will give you the most toned result. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a hi definition physique expert. Best, Dr. Emer

The flanks are the side areas of the body between the ribs and hips. They do not extend downward or upward from that area. Flanks respond very well to body-contouring procedures, such as liposuction, Vanquish, CoolSculpting and ThermiTight. Please consult a board-certified dermatologist if you are interested in permanently removing fat from your flanks.

The flank region is admittedly more posterior, but discuss this with your surgeon.Kenneth Hughes, MD

Thank you for your question. The definition of the “flank” is the area of the body between the lowest rib and the top of the pelvic bone in the sides of the body. I use the VASER Hi Def lipo technique to define this area. This is very powerful, and with maximum definition one can create a very nice hourglass figure. Most of this fat is posterior to the lateral midline, it is a mobile fat pad. I use specific pre-bent cannulas to treat this area both from the supine and prone position to remove the fat from off the muscle fascia and thin out the fat to a very thin layer under the skin to give the best shape possible. Many surgeons under treat this area, not realizing how mobile this fat pad is.If you are interested in body sculpting, see a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in advanced body sculpting techniques for an in person consultation/evaluation. Good luck.

I agree with the others. The flanks (often times called the love handles) is the sides of the waist. It is usually treated with a lipoabdominoplasty.

The term flank is generally synonymous with "love handle" and refers to the lateral aspect of the abdomen extending around to the back.  

Be sure of what your surgeon considers your flanks are before treatment.  In general, this non-medical term refers to the area of depot fat on your back and sides between waist and hips.  Liposuction of this area can be life-changing:  Waist is lengthened and narrowed, “muffin top” gone, fit in jeans and swimsuits improved, body shape more trim and feminine.

Dear Diva112233,I guess most plastic surgeons will include flanks liposuction in side liposuction. But I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Great question. Plastic surgeons will call that region of the body the flank, the side, the hips, and the love handles. The best way for you to communicate with your plastic surgeon regarding the exact area of your concern is for you and your surgeon to outline the area of concern with a marking pen. This will eliminate all confusion surrounding the nomenclature of plastic surgery which can otherwise be unnecessarily confusing.

Thank you for your question. Yes, the flanks are the sides of the abdomen. The exact area really depends on where you have fat to lipo, but most of the time it's more towards the back. If you are planning a surgery, make sure that the PS shows you exactly where he or she plans to lipo so there is no confusion. Hope that helps!