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Calf Reduction

Latest update: November 26, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jordan Frey, MD

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Calf reduction is a procedure that can reduce the size of bulky calves to create slimmer legs. The calves can have a more contoured shape by removing any excess fat in the legs.

Calf reduction can be achieved through both surgical and non-surgical methods.

Calf liposuction is a procedure that can reshape the legs and reduce calf size by extracting fat tissues from the area. Surgeons often pair liposuction with other treatments, such as ultrasound or laser, to achieve more effective results. The total recovery for calf liposuction is six months with reliable results. However, as with all liposuction, future weight gain may again increase the size of the legs.

Another surgical method for calf reduction is selective neurectomy. This procedure takes about one to two hours and is minimally invasive. The incisions are discreet, with cuts only made at the back of the knees. The process targets the nerves in the calves, causing the calf muscles to degenerate. As the muscles deteriorate and contracting becomes limited, they decrease in size, resulting in a slimmer look.

Partial muscle removal is the last surgical procedure. It is most suitable for candidates with bulkier and muscular calves. Surgeons make incisions behind the knee to remove muscle tissues to create a smaller and slimmer calf. The procedure takes one to two hours and requires six weeks of recovery. Recuperation time for each surgical treatment is different. 
Patients need to wear compression socks or tights for a couple of months after the 
surgery to help the recovery process.

Besides surgical methods, there are also non-invasive treatments that can reduce the size of the calf. These procedures usually have no downtime and results can take a few weeks to become noticeable.

Botox injections can help to relax the calf muscles. By limiting movement in the muscles, they reduce in size over time. Results from the Botox treatment usually show up after two months and require frequent sessions to maintain them.

Radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation is another non-surgical treatment. It uses RF energy to target the nerves in the calves. A section of the muscles and nerves gets  damaged and severed. This, in turn, stops further calf growth and slims down the legs. All of these procedures risk significant muscle damage that can impair mobility of the legs.
Anesthesia
local/general
Operation Time
depends on treatment
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
depends on treatment
Recovery Period
depends on treatment
Invasiveness
depends on treatment

Get Rid of Cankles with High Definition Calf Liposuction | Barrett Plastic Surgery

Dr. Barrett talks about removing "cankles" using liposuction. He goes over the procedure in a systematic way showing footage of the process in detail.

The Doctors Show - Non-surgical calf reduction with Botox

Dr. Charles Lee, from Beverley Hills, California, explains how Botox can be used to reduce calf size. One of his patients shows the results of the procedure and explains why she opted for this procedure. The panel discusses the risks involved with the treatment.

Calf Reduction using BOTOX - Dr. Paul Ruff | West End Plastic Surgery

Dr. Paul Ruff, from West End Plastic Surgery in Washington DC, demonstrates the use of Botox to reduce calf size. He explains the procedure as he treats the patient, expressing the advantages of this non-surgical alternative.

Medical Center: What is Radiofrequency Ablation Veins | Spider and Varicose Vein Treatment Center

Dr. Caroline Novak, a qualified phlebotomist, explains how radio frequency is used to treat vein disease. She talks about the different types of ablation. She talks about the radiofrequency ablation procedure.