Can Whole Leg Liposuction Be Done?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I’m interested in knowing more about the liposuction for calves and ankles. I’m 24 years old and am 5’ tall and weigh 140 lbs.. Many surgeons where I live have refused to perform liposuction in that area because of the risk of prolonged edema. I was wondering how much you would charge for liposuction of the entire leg( thighs, calves and ankles). Also, can I expect the whole leg to be done in one session? Thank you very much. I look forward to hearing from you.

A: What you referring is, as you have mentioned, total leg liposuction or near circumferential extremity liposuction. Your surgeons are correct in my opinion that performing liposuction on the whole leg will result in prolonged edema. And it is even possible that some of the edema may even be permanent. (rare risk) It is much more prudent to think of trying to thin the whole legs in two stages, upper (thighs) and lower liposuction. (knees to ankles) The lower legs should be done first, followed six months later by the upper leg section. This is the safest approach to prevent prolonged lower leg edema and also provides an opportunity to touch up any uneven or under corrected areas on the lower leg.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana