Calf reduction? It may come as a surprise to you that I offer calf reduction surgery in Toronto, Canada, since I have been discussing calf augmentation for both men and women for over 17 years now.
As many now know, augmenting the calves with implants is very common in my practice and I am likely the plastic surgeon who performs the bulk of these procedures in Canada, along with pectoral, hip, and buttock augmentation, and all types of facial implants. When discussing calf augmentation, we have implants to both improve the muscular look of one’s calves and/or to augment the entire inner lower legs in patients with thin lower legs and/or with a bowed-legged look.
Yet, CALF REDUCTION is a relatively frequent request in my office, most often by women.
How is calf reduction performed?
Calf reduction surgery, in the U.S. and Canada, involves a specialized type of liposuction. First, I must determine if the hypertrophy is fat, muscle, bone, or a combination of the above. Assuming there is indeed extra fatty tissue, one can safely undergo liposuction of the lower legs. I reduce the calves by performing tumescence-assisted liposuction with a smaller than average cannula. I like to place my incisions on the sides (ankles and knees) to make the tiny scars as least visible as possible. We, plastic surgeons, must be very meticulous and attentive as these areas are sensitive to developing “cannula tracts” because the lower legs—unlike other parts of the body—do not have 2 defined layers of fat (deep and superficial), but instead have just a single layer. For greatest precision, I like to use our small 2- and 3-mm cannulas and the older but safer SAL (suction-assisted) liposuction system. Many plastic surgeons won’t do this procedure as it requires significant attention and meticulous care (i.e., it is not a fast surgery).
Can the rest of the leg be sculpted as well?
Calf reduction usually involves 360-degree liposuction around the calves and ankles. For more a complete enhancement of the legs, I will often add liposuction to other areas, such as:
- Inner knees
- Above the knees
- Inner and outer thighs
What is recovery like after calf reduction?
Pain is quite mild post surgery. Recovery is relatively easy. Compression socks or garments are recommended for 3 to 4 weeks to minimize the normal swelling that occurs after liposuction of the lower extremities. Bruising will usually subside within 1 to 3 weeks and swelling (edema) after 1 to 6 weeks, so one must plan a pool or beach vacation accordingly. Sports should be avoided for 3 to 4 weeks.
To find out more about calf, ankle, and knee reduction, I encourage you to contact us to schedule a visit. I look forward to speaking with you.
Dr. Marc DuPéré, aesthetic plastic surgeon
