What Can Be Done About Extremely Thin Legs?

Question

I have the skinniest legs imaginable. I am certain it is a genetic condition in my family because my dad, brother and first cousin (all males) have the same problem. I know about calf implants but my main concern is what can be done for the ankle area? Attached is a picture of my legs. Thank you.

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!  I suggest you seek a board certified plastic surgeon who preforms these routinely.  Best of luck!Dr Dhaval PatelDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonChicago Hoffman EstatesOak Brook

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Depending on your particular condition either fat transfer or calf implants may help you. Both are reasonable options with minimal chance of complications you should contact a plastic surgeon experienced in both of these procedures

Rodney A. Green, MD · Answer

Men and women who are self concious about their calves have usually tried everything non-invasive to solve the problem. They are usually unsuccesful in getting the calf muscles to hypertrophy with excersise.

	Calf implants using solid (soft) silicone implants give a very natural result, when the implants are placed under the tough fibrous facia around the calf muscles.

	The initial recovery can be uncomfortable for the first few days, and then gradually gets better.

	Until I started doing this procedure I was sceptical about it, but I have found it to be a very gratifying procedure for my patients and myself. Good Luck.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Calf implants are a good way to treat skinny legs (below the knee). They are simple to place and can even be done without general anesthesia. I does demand about a 2 inch incision in the crease behind the knee so there is a small aesthetic trade off. It is also easily reversed if the patient does not like the result.

Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question.

	GIven your anatomy, I believe you would be a good candidate for a calf augmentation. The results are natural, and will create anatomic balance to your lower extremity/calf region.  I would not recommend fat transfer to the ankle area given how thin you are. Fat transfer in this region, has a high risk of asymmetry, and in inexperienced hands, could produce unsatisfactory results. If you do choose to pursue fat transfer, I recommend you consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who has plenty of experience with this type of procedure.

	Kindest Regards,

	Glenn Vallecillos, M.D., F.A.C.S.

What Can Be Done About Extremely Thin Legs?

Answers (9)