Calf reduction surgery can slim and contour the lower legs, but there are also nonsurgical calf reduction treatments. These procedures tend to target the medial gastrocnemius muscle and, in some cases, the soleus muscle, to streamline muscular calves.
There is a growing demand for calf reduction surgery, which is especially popular in South Korea.Â
The ideal candidate for calf reduction is someone who is unhappy with the size or shape of their calves, or one who has severe calf hypertrophy. People excess skin and those who are overweight are not considered good candidates.
The majority of RealSelf members say that their results were Worth It, allowing them to wear skinny jeans and shorter skirts or easily zip up tall boots. But there are some potential risks to consider, before you decide whether a procedure is right for you.
Pros
Cons
Your cost will depend on your provider’s level of experience, their practice location, and the type of calf reduction procedure you choose.
Botox injections can slim calves. This noninvasive treatment temporarily reduces muscle activity, causing the calf to shrink without hindering your movement post-procedure.Â
It can take a few weeks to start seeing results, and you’ll need maintenance treatments every four to six months to maintain them. But this can be a gateway to more permanent procedures, since it allows you to “try out” a smaller or less shapely calf.Â
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Those Botox Muscle-Atrophy Rumors.
Radiofrequency calf reduction is another nonsurgical option. This treatment uses radiofrequency energy to damage nerves in the calf muscles, which can cause them to atrophy and look slimmer.Â
RF energy can also heat fat cells in the calves, damaging some of them to the point that the body naturally flushes them out over time.
How long your calf reduction lasts depends on which treatment option you choose. The surgical options outlined above produce permanent results.Â
Patients who choose Botox will need maintenance treatments every four to six months.
Any muscle growth or weight gain can potentially add more bulk to the calves post-treatment.
Recovery time periods for calf-reduction procedures vary by treatment.Â
Expect to rest and avoid walking as you recover from liposuction or muscle resectioning. You might also need to wear elastic or compression socks to help aid healing and reduce swelling.
Updated June 13, 2023