Liposuction: Are the waist and flanks the same area?

You are correct in assuming that these areas are utilized relatively interchangeably and can mean different things to different people. Prior to undergoing any procedure, it is essential that you clarify your expectations with your surgeon prior to proceeding. For liposuction, this typically includes identifying the exact areas to be treated during your in person physical exam. This exam will help to clarify any confusion between nomenclature of various body areas and exactly which areas are set to be treated.

The waist is the center of the flanks. The flanks extend from the hip bones to the bottom of the ribcage. Regardless, an expert lipo surgeon will mark all of the areas that you want reduced so that everything you want treated will get treated.

Places differ on how they divide up the body in sections and price each. At our place, we keep it simple and call the area just the "lovehandle" area and includes waist and flanks. Make sure that where ever you are that specific discussion happens and every one is on the same page.

The flanks include the lower portion of the back extending out to the hips. The waist refers to the most narrow portion of the torso. It is best to clarify any questions you have with your surgeon so that you are comfortable and confident in what to expect from surgery.

Each provider will have their own an atomic chart or definition of liposuction areas. You should ask your provider and make sure you have a very clear understanding of what’s included and what’s not included.
Personally I don’t use the term flanks because it’s A bit imprecise.
When it comes to liposuction I view the torso as a single anatommic unit that try to treat the entire torso to leave people with an even natural thin fat distribution. A full torso includes upper abdomen, lower abdomen, love handles, waist, full back and under arm areas.
If you have questions about definition of areas or what’s included then you should check with your provider and make sure there are no misunderstandings of what will be treated and what’s included.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

The reason why this is confusing is because flanks and lower abdomen are medical definitions and "waist" is really more of a clothing/fashion definition. i think when most people measure their waist, they are taking a tape measure and wrapping it around their belt as though it were a belt. If you have extra fat in the lower abdomen this will enlarge this measurement. If you have extra fat in your flanks this will also enlarge this measurement.
Although some people may have a problem with only one of these 2 areas, most people will benefit from addressing both areas at the same time.

sincerely
david berman md, frcsc

Dear AL,
Every surgeon explains body sites a bit differently. I call what you are wanting lipo 360, which includes the front (upper/ lower tummy), front sides (left and right love handles) and back waist (left and right lower back).
All the best. DrBrecht
Seattle, Wa

Hi and welcome to our forum!
While the waist is the narrowest portion of your torso, the flanks include the tissues from the lateral inferior aspect of the ribcage to the hips extending posteriorly to the back. The terms are not interchangeable.
Best wishes...