What are my options for thinner ankles and knees? (Photos)

Question

I am pear-shaped and have always had thicker legs. I am wondering if kybella could be used to minimize extra fat in my outer thighs, knees, ankles. My upper body is leaner and I know it's not a matter of body fat necessarily since it's just the naturally shape of my legs. I'd like to avoid liposuction if possible. What would you recommend to get more defined legs?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

When we perform liposuction to the lower legs, microcannulas are used to remove fat very superficially without damaging the tissue or causing any scars or irregularities. Multiple energy devices are used to melt fat and tighten skin, which is especially needed in this small, sensitive area. Precision and skill is vital to get the best outcomes.
Coolsculpting and Kybella are non-surgical options that can also be used for fat reduction in the knees.
I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an expert to determine the best course of treatment for you. Best, Dr. Emer

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Depending on what areas of the knee bothers you the Coolsculpting for the knees works extremely well.  There is no non-surgical way to treat the ankles at this point. Please consult an expert in Coolsculpting for the best non-surgical results.  Best, Dr. Green

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

you should absolutely eliminate the idea of you saying Kybella for this right now and don't reconsider that option.  Doing so has a high likelihood of leaving you with series of indentations.  The only viable option is well done liposuction. Liposuction of the calves and ankles is by far the most technically challenging on the body.  The area is prone to uneven contours unless done by a true expert.  Put things in perspective I do about a 400 liposuction cases per year and do a Calfs ankles about once a year.  These cases represent 0.25% of all the work I do.  I'm a board-certified plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience of only performs liposuction and fat transfer procedures.  For patients who have serious problems with fat in this area liposuction is an excellent option.  For patients who have mild amounts of excess fat accepting  their body the way it is is a far better option.  That is what I would recommend for you.  I do not recommend you have any intervention for this.  Your legs look fine and you should leave them alone.  Best, Mats Hagstrom MD

What are my options for thinner ankles and knees? (Photos)

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What are my options for thinner ankles and knees? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Kybella

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