At Berardi Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale, AZ, flank liposuction sculpts away the stubborn "love handles" that cling to your sides despite diet and exercise. Performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Joseph Berardi, this advanced procedure is thoughtfully personalized to complement your natural frame – so your results feel as authentic as they look. If you're ready to redefine your midsection, we invite you to discover what's possible.
Flank liposuction is a targeted body contouring procedure that removes localized fat deposits from the sides of the torso – the area commonly referred to as "love handles" – as well as the lower back. These pockets sit between the lower ribs and the top of the hips and are notoriously resistant to even the most disciplined diet and fitness routines.
Liposuction has evolved considerably, and today several refined techniques allow for greater precision, comfort, and skin-tightening potential. During your consultation, Dr. Berardi will discuss the appropriate method for your anatomy and goals.
Because an accurate quote can only be developed after an in-person assessment, this face-to-face evaluation is invaluable. Our team can also arrange a quick call at your convenience for preliminary questions.
Once your procedure is planned, you’ll receive tailored pre-operative instructions to help you prepare safely. Preparation commonly involves:
Most patients feel ready to return to light daily activities and desk-based work within a week, though this varies from person to person. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks – usually around 4–6 weeks – to allow proper healing and prevent complications. Follow-up visits give Dr. Berardi the opportunity to advise on appropriate activities based on your individual progress.
Perhaps the most important quality of a good candidate is a realistic understanding of what the procedure can and cannot do. Flank liposuction beautifully refines the sides of your torso, but it is not a treatment for obesity, nor will it tighten significant amounts of loose skin on its own. Results become fully apparent over several months as swelling subsides and skin tightens. Candidates who approach the procedure with clear, achievable goals – and who are motivated to maintain their results with a healthy lifestyle – tend to be happiest with their outcomes.
Flank liposuction offers rewards that go beyond simple fat reduction. For many patients, the most meaningful benefit is the renewed confidence that comes from finally seeing their effort reflected in the mirror.
The result is not an artificial or “overdone” look but a natural refinement that lets you look like the best version of yourself.
Non-invasive treatments – such as Evolve, Morpheus8, or other radiofrequency and cryolipolysis-based procedures – can be excellent for patients with smaller amounts of fat or those who prefer to avoid surgery. However, they generally yield subtler results and may require multiple sessions.
Surgical liposuction, by contrast, removes a greater volume of fat in a single procedure and delivers more dramatic, immediate contouring. For patients with pronounced love handles seeking a defined, lasting change, surgical liposuction is often the more powerful choice. Your consultation is the ideal opportunity to weigh these paths together.
The vast majority of patients recover smoothly with no serious complications. Dr. Berardi will discuss these considerations in detail during your consultation, and our team takes every precaution to minimize risk.
Choosing where to entrust your body-contouring journey is one of the most important decisions you'll make – and at Berardi Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery, earning a nd maintaining your trust is our utmost priority.
When you choose our practice, you're choosing a partner committed to helping you look and feel like the very best version of yourself.
Pricing and results vary by individual. An accurate quote and personalized treatment plan can only be provided after an in-person consultation.
