Can Zeltiq CoolSculpting Be Used on Calves?

CoolSculpting works well for areas such as the abdomen, flanks, back, inner thighs and sometimes arms. The calves are usually not treated because the area is not pliable enough to be effectively pulled into the applicator by the suction in order to be treated with the cooling panels. You may consider liposuction instead. It is always a good idea to consult with a physician to see if you are a good candidate for particular treatments.

there is not enough excess skin in this area for an applicator to attach to.  the calves are amenable to liposuction, but any liposuction here needs to be done very carefully as imperfections are very easy to show.

The reason that you've not heard about Coolsculpting for calves is that it is not typically used in this area.  The reason is that that the flesh of the calves is typically quite firm (not soft and squishy).   It would be difficult to get the flesh into the applicator.  It you truly do have excess fat (and not large calf muscles), you might consider liposuction.

I am very impressed in some patients, with the results of Zeltiq but I am not aware of studies that have been done on fat reduction on the calves with CoolSculpting.  Currently there is no applicator that specifically is designed for the calf. I would question the possible side effects on the lower extremity that are not a concern on the outer thighs, abdomen, love handles, etc. such as exacerbation of varicose veins or sensory or motor nerve problems. I am awaiting results of pateints treated with CoolSculpting of their lower legs before I recommend such.

Coolscuplting is not the best modality for calves as there is usually insufficient laxity of the calf tissue to be mobilized into the Coolsculpting probe. Liposuction or SlimLipo can provide a great alternative for shaping the calves.