Can my 'botched' calf/ankle lipo be fixed?

Question

I had lipo of my calves/ankles 2 years ago. I am happy to not have the thicker lower legs but very unhappy and self conscious of the contour irregularities. Front of my legs are OK but it is the back and when I lift my heels where I see unevenness, indentations, discoloration. I don't know if anything can be done. I am sad and still too self conscious to wear skirts. My plastic surgeon told me he did lots of this procedures and I trusted that but do not see expertise. Can this be improved on?

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

I am so sorry that you are unhappy with your results. This ares is a particularly difficult part of the body. You may want to try laser to even out your results. Not sure if more liposuction would help. I would advise you to schedule a consultation with another board certified plastic surgeon in your area (link below) to discuss your options. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

very few people do a significant amount of liposuction in this area.  contour irregularities are normal here if liposuciton isnt meticulous.  ultrashape and/or venus legacy may help. additional liposuction may also not be the best option.  I suggest a formal consult.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I can see the areas of concern. It's possible that retreatment might be indicated if there is irregular distribution of the remaining fat. This should be done with very small cannulas. If depressions are caused by dermal scarring fat grafting might be indicated. Physical examination will be necessary.

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

Calves are one of the most difficult areas for liposuction and the procedure requires more care, attention to detail, and experience by the surgeon than probably any other area.  The typical complaints from calf liposuction are due to overzealous suction.  My treatment for you would involve a combination of laser refinement to loosen attachments causing the indentations, and "mulching" techniques that spread the uneven fat into less irregular patterns. NO fat would be removed from the right leg except in a couple tiny areas that are excessively irregular.  The left leg appears in the photos to be somewhat larger and less irregular.  So I would judiciously remove small amounts of fat in appropriate locations, and use the same techniques I described for the right leg in order to deal with unevenness on the left.

Stacey Folk, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have contour irregularities after liposuction, and these can even become more obvious if patients gain weight after their procedure (not referring to you, just in general). There may be room for substantial improvement by marking out areas for more "micro" liposuction and areas for fat transfer to smooth the appearance. This would very likely require more that one procedure, but it would be worth it if you could then be less self conscious. Contour irregularities can and do happen all of the time. I would start with discussing options for a revision with your original plastic surgeon and see how receptive he is. Stay nice and positive rather than letting your emotions come through. If you don't get anywhere then seek out a second opinion.Good luck

Can my 'botched' calf/ankle lipo be fixed?

Answers (5)

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