Love handle liposuction, also known as flank liposuction, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat deposits from the flanks, commonly referred to as love handles, to enhance body contour and achieve a more sculpted waistline. The procedure typically begins with administering anesthesia, which can be local (numbing only the target area), tumescent (a combination of saline, anesthetic, and epinephrine), or general (rendering the patient unconscious), depending on the amount of fat to be removed and the patient's preference. After the anesthesia has taken effect, small incisions are made in discreet locations around the love handles. Through these incisions, a thin, hollow tube called a cannula is inserted to break up and suction out the fat cells using a controlled back-and-forth motion. Advanced techniques such as ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) or laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) may be employed to liquefy the fat before removal, facilitating smoother results and potentially reducing recovery time.

Following the removal of the targeted fat, the surgeon carefully sculpts the remaining tissues to ensure an even and natural-looking contour. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and a compression garment is applied to help reduce swelling, support the treated area, and promote adherence of the skin to the new underlying contours. Post-operatively, patients can expect some bruising, swelling, and discomfort, which are typically managed with prescribed pain medication and adherence to post-surgical care instructions. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days, though strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. The final results of love handle liposuction become more apparent as the swelling diminishes over a few months, revealing a slimmer, more defined waistline.