Struggling to Get Rid of Flanks? Consider Liposuction

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If you're like most people, you probably notice that certain places seem to hold on to fat more stubbornly than others — with even diet and exercise having little effect on these so-called "problem areas." Among the most notoriously problematic features for slimming down are the flanks. When traditional methods are ineffective for reducing flanks, many men and women turn to liposuction for more immediate and lasting results. At Motakef Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Orange County, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Saba Motakef performs a range of body contouring procedures, including traditional liposuction and VASER liposuction, to help patients reduce their stubborn flanks, accentuate their desired curves, and boost their self-esteem. If you're struggling with stubborn flank fat, consider the exciting benefits of liposuction outlined here.

Are flanks the same as love handles?

While most people have heard the term "flanks," many aren't certain what area of the body is specifically considered a flank. A more common term for flanks is "love handles," with both referring to the area along the side of the body near the lower waist, lower abdomen, and upper hip. The flanks — or love handles — are often responsible for the stubborn and unsightly fat that spills over the side of a person's pants, sometimes known as a muffin top. Unfortunately, many people accumulate stubborn fat in their flank region that does not respond to diet, exercise, and other weight loss methods — but liposuction can help.

How does liposuction work for the flanks?

Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used to extract unwanted, diet- and exercise-resistant fat from almost anywhere on the face and body, including the flanks. While the approach for liposuction will be determined by Dr. Motakef on a case-by-case basis depending on the patient's individual needs, goals, and other factors, most liposuction cases are performed using general anesthesia and involve inserting a handheld wand through tiny incisions in the skin, allowing Dr. Motakef to suction out excess fat cells. In a more specialized form of fat removal surgery, known as VASER liposuction, a tumescent solution is first injected into the treatment area, which allows the fat cells to be more gently removed and reduces postoperative swelling, bruising, and other side effects. In yet another type of liposuction — HD liposuction, or hi-def lipo — a precise technique that removes fat from between and around muscles yields dramatic results, including enhanced muscle definition and lines.

Can I get rid of my love handles with liposuction?

While liposuction should not be considered a primary weight loss tool, patients can still enjoy the possibility of dramatically slimming some of their most problematic areas, including the flanks or love handles. As an added benefit of flank liposuction, many patients realize a more snatched waist and emphasized curves in their buttocks.

Is love handle liposuction permanent?

Although liposuction can remove some fat cells from the body, others will remain in and around the treatment area, and these cells can become enlarged with subsequent weight gain. For this reason, patients should be committed to maintaining a stable weight after liposuction through:

  • A balanced diet
  • Adequate hydration
  • Regular exercise
  • Deferring liposuction until after pregnancy
  • Reaching a stable goal weight prior to liposuction

By waiting to schedule your liposuction until you are at a healthy, stable weight for at least six months and committing to a long-term plan to avoid weight fluctuation, you can help increase your chances of preserving your newly slimmed midsection for years to come.

Break up with stubborn love handles with liposuction in Anaheim Hills, CA

If you aren't in love with your love handles but haven't been able to slim down with diet and exercise, liposuction may be the best possible option for finally getting the physique you desire. For more information about the many advanced liposuction techniques available at Motakef Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, call to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Orange County, CA board-certified plastic surgeon and body contouring specialist Dr. Saba Motakef today.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.