The "flanks" are the two areas that run above pelvic brim on the lateral and lateral-posterior part of the trunk. Contour disturbances of the flanks, (so-called "love handles"), can be seen in isolation or may be found in conjunction with lower abdominal lipodystrophy. Where lower abdominal fatty excess sweeps continuously into the flanks, many refer to the resulting contour problem as a "spare tire."
Fatty excess in this distribution is much more common in men, with most women tending to display localized fat deposits in the slightly lower "hip" areas (overlying and below the pelvic brim). However, individual females with a more "android" (male-like) physiognomy can certainly have "love handles," and may have hip and flank fat blend imperceptibly into one another.
Liposuction of the Flanks
While certain patients with flank disturbances may be candidates for broad excisions of skin and fat, (e.g. the massive weight loss patient needing body lift), most contour problems of the flanks will be treated using suction lipectomy.
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