The Skinny
Average Recovery
65 days
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Thermal Treatment
Surgical
No
Cost
$5000 - $10000
The Specifics
What is a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation?
Calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation is a moderately invasive plastic surgery procedure to progressively decrease the size of the gastrocnemius muscle (calf muscle). The gastrocnemius muscle is the more visible calf muscle that sits above the soleus muscle in the lower legs. As this muscle grows it expands laterally to give the calves their appearance. By blocking nerve signaling to the calf muscle through ablation with RF energy, over time the muscle will progressively atrophy and decrease in size.
Other calf reduction procedures include selective neurectomy, calf reduction by muscle resection (which is very invasive with a long recovery period), calf liposuction for excess fat, and Botox® injections.
What cosmetic concerns does a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure treat?
Who is the ideal candidate for a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure?
The ideal candidate for a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation is seeking to enhance the contours of the lower leg due to bulky calves, thick calves, or overly muscular calves. A calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation is not recommended for those with a history of impaired healing or poor blood flow to the lower extremities.
What is the average recovery associated with a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure?
Most patients experience about two to three weeks of recovery following a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation. After the nerves completely die, it is common to experience odd sensations and experience muscle weakness for several weeks. Compression garments should be worn for at least three months. Most patients begin to resume normal activities within one week.
What are the potential side effects of a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure?
Possible side effects following a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure include hematoma formation, bruising, swelling, scarring, infection, compensatory hypertrophy, muscle fibrosis, contour irregularities, asymmetry, and poor endurance.
What can someone expect from the results of a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure?
The results of a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure are permanent and will develop progressively over four to six months. The significance of calf reduction is difficult to predict. Avoiding strenuous calf activity will help to prevent compensatory hypertrophy.
What is the average cost of a calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation procedure?
Calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. The actual cost of calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation is dependent upon location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.
Pros
- Long Lasting Results
Cons
- Unpredictable Results
- Unsatisfactory Decrease
- Long Recovery Period
- Possible Nerve Or Vessel Injury
- Recurrence
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation slims and contours the lower legs. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after calf muscle reduction by RF nerve and muscle ablation.
The Takeaway
Calf reduction by radiofrequency nerve and muscle ablation is a moderately invasive procedure to reduce the size of the calves and the appearance of bulky calves, muscular calves, and thick calves for slim legs and improved body aesthetic.
