Simultaneous Use of Selective Neurectomy With Liposuction for Calf Reduction in Asians

Abstract

Background

Calf contouring continues to be popular among Northeast Asians. Calf hypertrophy and distorted leg contours are stressful to many women. Several calf reduction techniques such as a selective neurectomy or calf muscle resection have been attempted, but have inconsistent results.

Objectives

This study was designed to demonstrate improved outcomes when combining a selective neurectomy with simultaneous liposuction.

Methods

A total of 780 patients with hypertrophic calves underwent calf reduction from January 2002 to December 2010. Of these, 193 patients were treated by selective neurectomy with simultaneous liposuction. Calf hypertrophy with a circumference below 34 cm was defined as mild, calves with a circumference of 34 to 38 cm were defined as moderate, and a calf circumference above 38 cm was defined as severe. In all groups, patients whose pinch test was above 2 cm underwent a simultaneous liposuction.

Results

Twenty-eight cases (14.5%) were defined as mild, 72 (37.3%) were moderate, and 93 (48.2%) were severe. Over an average of 8.7 months of postoperative follow up, the reduction in calf circumference averaged 3.7 cm in the mild group (11.1%), 4.0 cm in the moderate group (10.7 %), and 4.3 cm in the severe group (10.7%). Overall, 97.5% of patients were satisfied with the results. There were no severe complications including functional problem of lower extremity reported.

Conclusions

The shape, type, and fat distribution of the hypertrophic calves were considered in our patient analysis. A selective neurectomy with liposuction was performed on 193 patients. This technique allowed for a successful calf reduction and improved the patient's aesthetic satisfaction without any reported functional complications.

Level of Evidence: 4