Really insecure over my nonexistent calves. What can I do? (Photo)

Question

My legs are really skinny. Actually, I don't know if it's just a lack of fat or muscle (both?) or maybe there's something else going on. But I have a strong dislike towards my legs. I've tried eating more to add a bit of fat but instead I gained rounder cheeks and a bigger belly. Exercise has done nothing. I'm left with surgery as a possible fix. What procedures can help me achieve normal, feminine legs? I attached a photo of a model whose legs are what I hope to accomplish. Thank you.

Ryan A. Stanton, MD · Answer

Other than favorable genetics combined with rigorous consistent exercise, there is no other way to augment or restore (in the cases of genetic or aquired disease/trauma) the calf muscles besides calf implants. I do not recommend fat transfer to the calfs for several reasons: 1) it is highly unlikely that the fat will survive in this area, 2) the dying fat may get infected and likely infect the implant as well, 3) whatever fat does survive may be lumpy-bumpy and uneven with the opposite side. Bottom line, fat transfer will NOT work, period! Please keep in mind that a physical exam is always first necessary before providing any final surgical recommendations. Depending upon the physical exam and the patient’s goals, inner and/or outer calf implants may be necessary to best balance out the leg shape and symmetry.  Commonly patients aesthetically benefit the most from having both inner and outer implants placed.  
Very few plastic surgeons specialize in this operation so you may have to travel a long distance to one that does. The implants are made of soft semi-solid silicone rubber and placed surgically through a small (3/4 inch) incision in a natural crease behind the knee. When the implants are properly sized and placed under the muscle fascia, they should blend in and look natural. There are too many critical nerves and blood vessels under the muscle to risk putting the implants under the actual muscle bellies. This too is true in the ankle area, hence not a good idea. 
All surgery comes with post-operative pain and recovery.  For calf implants, the first two weeks after surgery is the most difficult time because walking is painful. However most patients ambulate just fine without crutches, some choose to use them for the first 3-5 days. Recovery usually progresses at a smooth steady pace after the initial two weeks. Patients can fly back home as soon as 4-5 days post-op. Driving a car is usually allowed after 7-10 days. Low intensity seated upper body workouts can resume at 2-3 weeks, standing at 4 weeks but no legs for 6 weeks...remember, you only have one chance to heal properly. Glad to be of help.

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photos you provided. It is difficult to know your specific surgery plan without examining you myself. But if you are healthy without major medical problems, you should consider calf implants. Make sure you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon, but they will be able  to discuss sizing and if there are any additional procedures to help achieve your wish pic. Good luck

Steven H. Wiener, MD · Answer

Individuals with thin, poorly defined calf silhouette are often very unhappy about their appearance.  Calf implants is a popular and reliable method to augment and improve your lower leg shape.  This procedure is often done under sedation as an out-patient.  A small incision is made just below your natural crease, and the solid silicone rubber implant is placed below the fascia. Most individuals augment their medial calf muscle, many body builders will often augment both the medial and lateral muscles.The use of wedge shoes postoperatively allows for more comfortable walking.

Carlos Castaneda, MD · Answer

The shape and volume in the calves is determined by various factor, even in the way you walk or stand.The easiest way is to augment them with a silicone implant, the procedure is quite easy and takes around an hour of operating time, recovery takes around 10 days.Contact a surgeon directly to get more answers .

Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thanks for the question.  In review of your photos, a calf augmentation with implants is certainly something I would consider over other alternatives such as fat transfer.  The outpatient procedure typically takes about an hour or less to perform, results are very satisfying, and scars are minimal. If considering a calf augmentation, my advise is to find a board certified plastic surgeon with plenty of experience with this procedure, as there are nuances which can affect the overall outcome and satisfaction.Best of luck,Doctor Vallecillos, MD, FACS, Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Really insecure over my nonexistent calves. What can I do? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Calf augmentation

Answer: Calf augmentation

Answer: Calf Implants in Beverly Hills

Answer: Calf Implants in Beverly Hills

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Everything you need to know about Calf Implant

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Really insecure over my nonexistent calves. What can I do? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Calf augmentation

Answer: Calf augmentation

Answer: Calf Implants in Beverly Hills

Answer: Calf Implants in Beverly Hills

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Calf Implant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.