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A thick ankle that can make the lower leg appear as if the calf and the ankle are one is often called a "cankle." So many are concerned with their thicker lower legs that gyms have developed specific exercises for it and shoe manufacturers offer footwear to disguise the problem. Many cosmetic surgeons are offering specific liposuction and laser lipolysis procedures to slim them down.
Dr. Drew Ordon of The Doctors performed a procedure known as 3-D lipo on a patient. He describes that during the procedure he truly sculpts a more visible, beautiful ankle for the patient, rather than simply removing fat. He makes three incisions in the calf and ankle so that he is able to remove the fat from the area effectively and safely. He points out that there are key structures in the area, such as the Achilles tendon, which he must be very careful to avoid. As with all lipo surgeries, the doctor first injects the standard tumescent fluid which eases the break up and removal of the excess fat.
Following surgery, Dr. Ordon explains that it's very important to wear compression garments to ensure proper healing, as well as to keep the legs elevated. The patient can get back to normal activities within a couple of weeks, and after the swelling subsides, a more beautiful, defined ankle can be seen.
