Flank Liposuction: Before And After Photos

Flabby flanks, often called love handles, can disrupt your body’s natural curves and make you feel self-conscious. 

These stubborn fat deposits, found on the sides of your body, often give the appearance of extra bulk. 

Thankfully, flank liposuction offers an effective solution to remove excess fat and achieve a more defined, flattering body contour.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about flank liposuction, including the procedure, cost, and before and after results to help you make an informed decision.

What Are Love Handles 

Love handles, or flanks, are pockets of excess fat that accumulate around the sides of the waist and lower back. 

They become more noticeable when they spill over the waistband of tight clothing. 

These fat deposits typically develop due to a combination of factors, including lifestyle habits such as poor diet and lack of exercise, as well as genetic predispositions that influence where fat is stored on the body

What is Flank Liposuction

Flank liposuction, or flank lipo, is a surgical cosmetic procedure designed to reduce fat deposits on the love handles, the area on the sides of the abdomen, lower back and midsection. 

The flank liposuction area includes the excess fat along the waistline, extending from the lower back to the sides of the abdomen, which helps create a more sculpted and contoured silhouette.

The love handles notoriously hold resistant fat that is difficult to eliminate through diet and exercise alone.

Love handles surgery sculpts the waistline by removing stubborn fat that diet and exercise often fail to address.

Flank liposuction can target both the anterior and posterior or bilateral flanks, depending on the patient’s needs. 

Anterior flank liposuction focuses on removing fat from the sides of the abdomen, helping to create a slimmer waistline and a more defined contour. 

On the other hand, posterior flank liposuction addresses fat deposits on the lower back, improving the shape of the back and reducing bulges above the waistline. 

Many patients opt for a combination of anterior and posterior flank liposuction in a bilateral flank lipo to achieve a more sculpted, balanced look from all angles.

The procedure involves making small incisions and using a cannula, a thin tube, to suction out excess fat, reshaping the waist for a more sculpted appearance. 

Flank liposuction can remove up to 5 liters of fat, but it is not a weight loss surgery—it is a body contouring procedure aimed at refining the waistline.

It’s important to note that flank liposuction is different from back liposuction, as it specifically targets fat on the sides of the waist and lower back, rather than the upper or mid-back.

If you're looking for a more defined waist, your surgeon can focus on these areas to achieve the desired shape.

Important to notice here that the flank lipo is different from the back lipo. Click here to read more about back liposuction.

Discover other sited of liposuction:

Buffalo liposuction, a procedure that contours the upper back area.

Lateral Chest Liposuction for Men & Women Upper Back Reduction

Related Article: CoolSculpting Flanks

Benefits of Flank Liposuction

Liposuction for the flanks is a highly effective and well-tolerated procedure that reduces fat in the love handles and back. 

The results are an hourglass waist for women or a V-shaped body for men.

Both men and women can undergo the procedure to get a shapelier body without weirdly looking “love handles”. The benefits that you can get from this side lipo include:

1. Improved body contour by removing stubborn fat from the sides, leading to a more sculpted, toned, and defined waistline.
2. Unlike traditional weight loss methods, flank liposuction specifically targets localized fat deposits, making it ideal for areas that are resistant to diet and exercise.
3. Can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence.
4. Flank liposuction is minimally invasive with a shorter recovery time, allowing patients to return to their regular activities faster.
5. Flank liposuction results can last long-term, as fat cells in the treated areas are permanently removed.
6. minimally-invasive procedure
7. Quick recovery as Most patients experience mild swelling and bruising post-procedure, but they can typically resume light activities within a few days, with full recovery taking a few weeks.
8. Enhanced clothing fit.

Candidates for Lipo of Flanks

The best candidates for liposuction are healthy individuals with firm, elastic skin and isolated bulges or pockets of excess fatty tissue in specific areas such as the flank

The procedure is an ideal choice for people who meet the following criteria:

• Are at or near their ideal weight but have stubborn fat in the flank area that is resistant to diet and exercise.
• Have good skin elasticity and do not have excess or sagging skin that would require surgical tightening.
• Are in good overall health, with no major medical conditions that could interfere with surgery or healing.
• Have realistic expectations about the results, understanding that liposuction can contour the body but cannot address other issues such as muscle laxity.
• Do not smoke or are willing to quit for a specified period before and after the procedure to ensure proper healing.

The Procedure of Flank Liposuction

The steps of flank removal surgery include using a small tube called a liposuction cannula to suction out fat from the love handles. The procedure involves making small incisions, through which the fat is liquefied and removed. This reshapes the waist, giving it a more contoured look.

Steps of this procedure differ according to the liposuction technique used by the surgeon. For instance, some clinics rely on Vaser liposuction to gently remove fat from the flank area. Other clinics, on the other hand, rely on tumescent liposuction to do the job.

Vaser liposuction is precise and can achieve great results. Tumescent liposuction is also great for removing subcutaneous fat. 

Regardless of the technique used, steps of flank removal surgery consist of

1. Anesthesia
To ensure you remain comfortable and free from pain during the procedure, your surgeon will administer anesthesia. 

Once you're sedated, the surgical area will be cleaned, and the site will be marked for precision.

2. Making the Incisions
Your surgeon will create small, discreet incisions in the flank area to provide access for the liposuction cannula. 

These incisions are strategically placed to minimize scarring.

3. Cannula Insertion
Using a cannula, the surgeon will carefully dislodge fat cells and suction them out, reshaping the body’s contour. 

The cannula is inserted through the incisions and used to target and remove stubborn fat deposits.

4. Closing the Incisions
After the fat is removed, the surgeon will close the incisions with dissolvable stitches. 

A bandage or compression garment may be applied to the treated area to promote healing and reduce swelling.

Flank Liposuction Recovery

To get a smooth, seamless recovery after the procedure, your surgeon may recommend you stick to the following instructions:

• Avoid putting extra pressure on the surgical site 
• Wear a compression garment to reduce the swelling and stabilize the results. you need to wear the medical compression garment for about four to six weeks
• Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities in the month following the procedure.
• How to sleep after flank liposuction is also important for a smooth recovery, patients are often advised to sleep on their back with slight elevation to minimize pressure on the treated area.
• You can go back to your normal daily activities after 3-weeks after the liposuction surgery.

Temporary side effect during recovery include:

• Flank liposuction recovery involves some common side effects, including swelling, bruising, and a prickly sensation in the treated area. 
• Flank liposuction bruising typically peaks within the first week and gradually fades over the next few weeks. 
• Similarly, flank liposuction swelling may persist for several weeks, with noticeable improvement after the first month. 
• Some patients describe a prickly or tingling feeling in the flanks as the nerves heal, which is temporary.
• Proper post-op care, including wearing a compression garment and following your surgeon’s instructions, helps reduce swelling and discomfort. 
• Some patients suffer from nausea after liposuction.
• Sometimes, liposuction is painful.Take painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications as directly only by your doctor.

Flank Liposuction Results

After side effects subsided, patients expect to see some immediate results. Initial results are visible within 1-2 weeks as swelling subsides, but final results may take 3-6 months to fully emerge as the body continues to heal and adjust. 

Skin elasticity and post-surgery care play a role in the final outcome, and maintaining a stable weight ensures long-lasting results.

Appealing flank liposuction outcomes:

Flank liposuction results in a sculpted, well-defined waistline free from excess fat, creating a smoother and more contoured silhouette. 

The procedure eliminates stubborn fat from the love handles, enhancing body proportions and giving a more balanced, athletic appearance.

Unwanted results:

Flank liposuction scars is one of the unwanted results of flank liposuction is scarring, as small incisions are required to remove fat. 

However, these scars are usually minimal, strategically placed in natural skin folds, and fade significantly over time with proper care.

Flank Liposuction Before and After Pictures

Before flank liposuction, how is the shape and appearance of love handles? 

Love handles typically appear as soft, rounded bulges on the sides of the torso, often blending into the lower back and abdominal fat. 

After flank liposuction

After flank liposuction, you’ll notice a slimmer waist, more defined sides, and a flatter stomach area, giving your body a more contoured and sculpted appearance. 

Below are selected flank fat lipo before and after images. You can also click here to check other liposuction before and after images.

Combining flank liposuction with other procedures In Turkey

1. Abdominal and Flank Liposuction

Flank liposuction specifically removes fat from the sides of the waist, helping create a slimmer, more defined shape. 

Combining it with abdominal liposuction enhances contouring but may increase costs and recovery time.

Many surgeons also perform flank liposuction alongside a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) for a more dramatic transformation. 

Studies have shown that combining these procedures does not increase the risk of fluid buildup (seroma), but obesity may raise the chance of post-surgical complications.

Liposuction removes stubborn fat permanently, but maintaining results requires a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. 

Before-and-after photos of abdominal and flank liposuction show a clear difference patients achieve a more sculpted waistline with noticeable fat reduction and improved contours.

For full midsection sculpting, Lipo 360 targets the entire waist, abdomen, and back. plus-size lipo 360 is an option for those needing more extensive fat removal while maintaining natural body proportions.

2. Back and flank liposuction

Back liposuction along with flank liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes stubborn fat from the upper, mid, and lower back, as well as the flanks (love handles), helping to create a more sculpted and contoured waistline.

This combination is preferred by patient have excess fat in their upper and lower back along with bilateral waist.

3. Hip and Flank Liposuction 

This procedure targets excess fat in both the hip and flank areas to create a smoother, more contoured waistline and enhance the body's natural curves. It is ideal for those struggling with stubborn fat deposits in these regions that do not respond to diet and exercise.

4. Tummy tuck with flank liposuction

While some compare tummy tuck vs. liposuction, combining abdominoplasty with flank liposuction, is a common body contouring procedure. 

This plastic surgery combines both flank removal surgery with tummy tuck, surgical removal of saggy and excess skin in the waist and abdominal area.

Several benefits can be obtained from having abdominoplasty and flank lipo removal.

Flank Liposuction Cost

The average price of flank liposuction globally ranges between $2,500 to $6,000 USD.

The actual price of flank liposuction varies widely depending on several factors, such as the clinic’s location, reputation, and the advanced equipment used. 

The technique used in liposuction is another important factor that affects both the results and the cost. 

VASER liposuction is a highly precise body contouring technology that uses ultrasound waves to break down fat before removal, making the process smoother and more effective. It is more expensive than traditional liposuction but generally cheaper than laser liposuction.

Another advanced technique preferred for flank liposuction is Radiofrequency-Assisted Liposuction (RFAL), such as BodyTite. 

This method not only removes fat effectively but also tightens the skin, making it an excellent choice for those with mild to moderate skin laxity in the waist and side areas.

On the other hand, Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) uses a vibrating cannula to break down fat, making the extraction process easier and less invasive. 

It is often more affordable than RFAL but does not provide significant skin tightening benefits.

Additionally, the surgeon’s experience plays a crucial role in determining the cost. 

Highly skilled and experienced surgeons typically charge more; however, since a surgeon’s expertise is critical to the success of plastic surgery, investing in a more qualified specialist is often worthwhile.

When looking for affordable plastic surgery, Turkey is widely recognized for offering some of the best prices, along with comprehensive medical packages. 

This reputation is supported by highly skilled and experienced surgeons, excellent services, and state-of-the-art medical equipment, making Turkey one of the most popular destinations for medical tourism for international patients. 

Cost of liposuction in Turkey ranges between $1,500 to $4,000 USD per area. The flank  liposuction, love handles surgery, price in Turkey falls between $1,700 and $2,500 USD

The table below provides the estimated flank lipo cost in different countries:

Cost of tummy tuck with flank liposuction:

The cost of a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) ranges between $6,000 and $12,000 USD globally, while Turkey offers a more affordable option with prices ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 USD, and an average cost of around $4,500 USD in Istanbul.

Combining flank liposuction with a tummy tuck increases the overall price, but it remains a cost-effective option compared to having each procedure separately. This combination enhances body contouring by effectively sculpting the waistline at a lower total cost.

In Istanbul, the cost of a tummy tuck with liposuction typically falls between $4,500 and $5,500 USD, depending on the clinic, surgeon’s expertise, and included services.

Abdomen and flank liposuction cost

The cost of abdomen and flank liposuction in Turkey typically ranges between $2,500 and $6,000

This combination is generally more expensive than flank liposuction alone but is often more cost-effective than undergoing both procedures separately. 

In countries like the U.S., the price can range from $5,000 to $10,000. 

Risks of Flank Liposuction

Generally, liposuction is safe. However, risks of flank lipo that are similar to other kinds of liposuction can develop after the surgery. 

Some cases may show serious or long term side effects such as:

• Infection and fever
• Poor healing
• Flank liposuction scars
• Blood clots
• Loss of sen

The Bottom Line

Flank liposuction is an effective solution for eliminating stubborn love handles and achieving a more contoured waistline. 

By targeting excess fat in the flanks, this procedure enhances body proportions and boosts confidence. 

With proper aftercare and a healthy lifestyle, the results can be long-lasting, helping individuals maintain a sculpted and balanced physique.

 In Turkey, liposuction is performed at affordable and cost-effective rates, ensuring high-quality standards and impressive results. 

If you are considering flank liposuction, International Clinics offers expert care and advanced techniques to help you achieve your ideal body shape.

FAQ

Is flank liposuction worth it?

Flank liposuction is worth it for individuals struggling with stubborn fat in the love handles area that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise. 

It provides a more contoured waistline, enhances body proportions, and delivers long-lasting results when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Where is flank liposuction?

Flank liposuction targets the fat deposits on the sides of the lower back, commonly known as "love handles." This procedure helps create a more defined waistline by removing excess fat from the flanks.

How long does swelling last after flank liposuction?

Swelling after flank liposuction typically lasts for a few weeks, with the most noticeable reduction occurring within the first month. However, mild swelling can persist for up to three to six months as the body fully heals.

How much does flank liposuction cost?

The cost of flank liposuction varies depending on the clinic, surgeon’s expertise, and location. In Turkey, this procedure is offered at affordable rates while maintaining high-quality standards and excellent results.

How much is abdomen and flank liposuction?

The price of abdomen and flank liposuction depends on factors such as the amount of fat removed and the clinic’s pricing structure. In Turkey, it is available at competitive prices, offering a cost-effective solution for body contouring. International Clinics provides high-quality liposuction procedures with outstanding results

How to Sleep After Flank Liposuction?

You must avoid sleeping on your abdomen or sides if these positions put additional pressure on the surgical site. Sleeping on the back might be the right choice but avoid this position too if it affects the surgical stitches.

How Much Fat Can Be Removed with Flank Liposuction?

The amount of fat removed by flank liposuction varies among cases, but many patients can lose up to 4-5 Liters of fat through the procedure.

How Painful Is Lipo Flanks?

Lipo flanks isn’t a painful procedure, but you may feel minor discomfort after the surgery. Surgeons often prescribe painkillers to patients who complain of pain in the treated areas.

Does Flank Lipo Include Back?

Flank lipo is different from back lipo. However, surgeons can combine flank and back lipo, but this may involve extended downtime and more costs.

Are Flanks the Same as Love Handles?

Love handles are often referring to large, bulging flanks. So, technically, flanks and love handles are basically the same things.

Does Coolsculpting Work on Flanks?

Coolsculpting can work on flanks and eliminate the fat pockets in that area. However, results obtained by Coolsculpting may not be satisfactory compared to those of flank lipo.

What Happens If You Get a Tummy Tuck Without Lipo Flanks?

A tummy tuck doesn’t typically include lipo flanks in the first place. The procedure targets the abdominal fat and muscles, not the fat in the flank region. However, some people prefer to get both procedures at the same time to get better results.

Is Flank Liposuction Worth It?

Flank liposuction is worth it for removing stubborn love handles. It can improve your body contour and boost confidence. However, it's not a weight loss solution and requires realistic expectations.

What is the flank of the body?

The flank of the body refers to the area on the side of the torso between the ribs and the hip. It is located just below the ribcage and extends down to the top of the pelvis. This region includes soft tissues, muscles, and fat, and is commonly targeted in cosmetic procedures like liposuction to reduce excess fat or enhance body contours. The flank area is also known as the "love handles."

is the flank part of the abdomen?

Yes, the flank is considered part of the abdomen, but it refers specifically to the sides of the body. While the abdomen typically refers to the front of the torso, the flanks extend from the lower ribcage to the hips, on both sides of the abdomen, and towards the back. The flank area includes the softer tissue around the waist, but it is distinct from the central front part of the abdomen.