Is Ankle Liposuction Recommended and What Are the Risks?

Question

I am of slim build with heavier lower legs and what seems like a pocket of fat around the ankle. I have seem 3 surgeons- 2 said I needed a vascular assessment and they probably would not operate, the other was confident that he could remove the fat. When I go to bed at night my ankles are always more swollen than in the mornings-I have raised blood pressure that is well contolled and am 31 yrs old. I am concerned as I have had conflicing assessments and am unsure whether to proceed with this

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank ypu for your question.  Ankle liposuction can be performed but very carefully with an experienced surgeon.  Swelling will last longer and compression stocking are placed for a longer period of time.   Best Wishes.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

If swelling is a significant component of the problem, liposuction will not help and has the potential to make the problem worse.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

Liposuction of the ankle, probably better termed liposculpture because of the small amount of fat that is removed, can make a big difference in the shape of the ankles. It is fairly easy to do and effective but it will take awhile for all the swelling to go away (months) because of the dependent position of the feet.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Ankle liposuctrion is a good treatment for thick fatty ankles. But the swelling in the ankles can take much longer to resolve than any other area of the body.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi.

	1) Many surgeons avoid this area (not sure why) and therefore are not experienced.  We have seen several women who had been made to have all kinds of tests, when they just needed microliposuction of the lower legs.

	2)  It is very safe and the results can be dramatic and life changing.  You just need to approach it like sculpture.  Compression stockings must be worn for three weeks.

	3)  Of course you need a good physical examination to be sure you are a good candidate.

Is Ankle Liposuction Recommended and What Are the Risks?

Answers (5)