Cankles: Understanding and Addressing This Aesthetic Concern

Daniel J Farrugia MD PhD FACS

May 9, 2023

Liposuction

Cankles, a colloquial term combining “calf” and “ankles,” refers to the lack of definition between the calf and ankle, creating the appearance of a singular, thickened lower leg. While they are not a medical condition, they can be an aesthetic concern for some individuals. This blog post will explore the possible causes of cankles, how to prevent them, and potential solutions for those looking to address this issue.

Causes of Cankles

1. Genetics: Some people are predisposed to carrying more fat or having thicker muscle structures in their lower legs due to genetics. This can lead to the appearance of cankles.

2. Fluid retention: Swelling or edema in the lower legs can cause cankles, which may be a result of pregnancy, a high-salt diet, or certain medical conditions.

3. Obesity: Excess body fat can be distributed to the lower legs, contributing to the appearance of cankles.

4. Lack of muscle tone: Weak or underdeveloped calf muscles may contribute to the appearance of cankles, as well-defined muscles can help create the illusion of a slimmer ankle area.

5. Lipedema. Lipedema is a chronic disorder characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat in specific areas of the body, primarily affecting the legs and, in some cases, the arms. This condition often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary suffering for many women, as it predominantly affects females. Although the exact cause of lipedema remains unknown, it is believed to be linked to hormonal imbalances and genetic predisposition. Some of the contributing factors include:

Genetics: Lipedema often runs in families, indicating that genetic factors may play a role in the development of the condition.
Hormonal imbalances: The majority of lipedema cases emerge during periods of hormonal change, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, suggesting that hormones may contribute to its development.

Prevention and Management of Cankles

1. Maintain a healthy weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent the development of cankles. Focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise to stay within a healthy weight range.

2. Exercise regularly: Incorporate cardiovascular exercises such as walking, swimming, or biking, along with strength training exercises targeting the calf muscles, to maintain muscle tone and promote a more defined lower leg appearance.

3. Limit sodium intake: A high-salt diet can contribute to fluid retention. Limit your sodium intake by avoiding processed foods and adding less salt to your meals.

4. Elevate your legs: Elevating your legs whenever possible can help reduce fluid retention in the lower legs and prevent the appearance of cankles.

Potential Treatments of Cankles

1. Compression stockings: Wearing compression stockings can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow in the lower legs, potentially reducing the appearance of cankles.

2. Liposuction: In some cases, liposuction may be an option for individuals who are bothered by the appearance of their cankles. This procedure involves removing excess fat from the lower leg area to create a more defined calf-to-ankle transition.

3. Calf-implants: For individuals with underdeveloped calf muscles, calf implants can help create a more defined lower leg appearance.

Symptoms of Lipedema

Lipedema presents various symptoms that can help differentiate it from other conditions, such as lymphedema or obesity:

Disproportionate fat accumulation: Fat deposits are typically seen in the legs, hips, and buttocks, and occasionally in the arms. The feet and hands remain unaffected, creating a distinct “bracelet” or “ankle cuff” appearance.
Pain and tenderness: The affected areas are often painful and tender to touch, even with mild pressure.
Easy bruising: Individuals with lipedema may experience unexplained bruising in the affected areas.
Swelling: Although swelling can occur in lipedema, it is generally less severe than in lymphedema and usually worsens throughout the day.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Lipedema

Diagnosing lipedema can be challenging, as many healthcare professionals are unfamiliar with the condition. It is crucial to consult a specialist with experience in diagnosing and treating lipedema for accurate assessment and appropriate management.

Conservative treatments: The primary goal of conservative treatments is to manage symptoms and prevent the progression of lipedema. These treatments include: a. Compression garments: Wearing compression stockings or garments can help reduce swelling and improve circulation in the affected areas. b. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD): A specialized massage technique, MLD helps stimulate the lymphatic system and reduce swelling. c. Exercise: Regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming, walking, or yoga, can help improve circulation and maintain mobility. d. Nutritional support: Adopting a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can help manage weight and reduce inflammation.
Surgical treatments: In more advanced cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to reduce pain, improve mobility, and address aesthetic concerns. Some surgical options include: a. Liposuction: Specialized liposuction techniques, such as water-assisted liposuction (WAL) or tumescent liposuction, can help remove excess fat in the affected areas. b. Lymphatic-venous anastomosis (LVA): This microsurgical procedure aims to improve lymphatic drainage by creating connections between the lymphatic vessels and the venous system.

Lipedema is a complex and often misunderstood condition. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to managing symptoms, preventing progression, and improving the quality of life for those affected. Increased awareness and education among healthcare professionals and the general public are essential for better support and care for individuals living with lipedema. If you suspect you may have lipedema, seek the advice of a specialist with experience in the condition.

Final Thoughts

While cankles are not a medical concern, they can be an aesthetic issue for some people. By understanding the potential causes, taking preventive measures, and considering appropriate treatments, it is possible to address this concern and achieve a more defined lower leg appearance. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine. If you are considering cosmetic procedures for your calves and ankles, consult with a cosmetic surgeon that is experienced in performing liposuction of the calves and ankles.

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ankles, calves, cankles, contouring, luxury legs