Lumbar vs flank. What's the difference?

Question

I went for several consultations for abdominal liposuction and I noticed some clinics quoted "abdominal and flanks' while another quoted 'abdominal and lumbar rolls'. What's the difference?

Fernando Colon, MD · Answer

Without photos is hard to tell for sure but I suspect the 
plastic surgeons may be referring to the same areas.
Best wishes.

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thank you for the question. I recently wrote the procedural and safety guidelines for plastic surgeons on liposuction. The entire paper can be found on my website of you are interested. Essentially the waist is a female term hah refers to the side from the ribs to the hip bone. The same area in a man is called the flank. They have different names because they should look different (curve vs a box). Lumbar is referring to areas around the spine. I still debate with surgeons over arbitrarily charging for areas as everyone is different in size and shape. I believe surgery makes sense when charged per time similar to other professionals

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

Largely they describe the same area, the fatty rolls behind the love handles.  Be sure to discuss your goals and concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon and consider the pros and the cons. Be certain your surgeon is properly certified.  I've attached a link where you can start your search.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I have never heard any one use lumbar rolls for waist, but I guess it is possible,. I usually say waist, love handles, or flanks. Ask them to be specific of what that area includes.

Nancy de Kleer, MD, FRCSC (Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question.
I expect that both surgeons are referring to the same treatment area. An important point is to be sure you and the surgeon agree as to which areas are to be treated.
All the best,
Dr. Nancy de Kleer

Atul Kesarwani, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Flanks and lumbar rolls refer to the same area. It is an area that patients are always happy with results after liposuction. 
Good luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Both terms are pretty much the same thing, or some may even call it waist, or waist and hips. I would suggest choosing the clinic and doctor you were most comfortable with and that showed photos of realistic expectations.

John Zavell, MD, FACS · Answer

The differences that you noted from the consultations is simply semantics.  Lumbar refers to a lower area of the back corresponding to the lumbar spine region.  Flanks is a less precise term but refers to the sides of the trunk usually below the ribs.  Probably both quotes refer to the same areas.  More important is what the goals of the liposuction are and which quote(s) addressed this the best.  See a board certified plastic surgeon and good luck.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

Flanks and lumbar rolls are just two different names for the same thing.   These areas are also called the love handles.   All the same.   My Best,  Dr Commons

Lumbar vs flank. What's the difference?

Answers (9)

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