Calf Muscle Reduction

  • Calf muscle reduction is a popular body contouring procedure in Korea, especially among patients who desire slim, feminine, and proportionate legs. Many people struggle with thick, muscular calves that don’t respond to weight loss or exercise. This can make it difficult to wear skirts, heels, or slim-fitting pants with confidence. Whether the bulk is due to genetics, frequent workouts, or a natural muscular build, Korea offers advanced surgical and non-surgical solutions to reshape the calves permanently and safely.

    • Calf Muscle Reduction via Ablation (Radiofrequency or Nerve Blocking)
      A popular non-invasive surgical method that selectively weakens the calf muscle by damaging targeted motor nerves. This reduces muscular activity and gradually slims the calf muscle over time without removing muscle tissue.

    • Calf Resection Surgery (Partial Gastrocnemius Muscle Removal)
      For patients with very bulky or disproportionately developed calves, this is the most effective and permanent method. The surgeon removes a portion of the gastrocnemius muscle to reduce volume.

    • Calf Botox (Botulinum Toxin Type A Injections)
      The most popular non-surgical method for minor to moderate muscular calves. Botox is injected into the gastrocnemius muscle to temporarily reduce muscle contractions, leading to slimmer calves over a few weeks.

  • You may be a candidate if you:

    • Struggle with localized fat that doesn’t go away with diet or exercise

    • Have good skin elasticity (for skin to tighten naturally post-surgery)

    • Are close to your goal weight but want a more sculpted appearance

    • Want permanent fat removal in targeted areas

    • Are in overall good health and can follow recovery protocols

    • Avoid medications/supplements that can increase bleeding (e.g. aspirin, vitamin E, birth control) for 2 weeks

    • Stop smoking and drinking alcohol for at least 5 days before surgery

    • Eat healthy, unprocessed foods leading up to your procedure

    • Remove jewelry, makeup, nail polish, and contact lenses before arrival

    • Fasting 6–8 hours prior is required for surgical cases; not necessary for Botox injections

    • Mild swelling or bruising is normal for 1–2 weeks

    • Compression stockings may be recommended to reduce swelling and promote circulation

    • Avoid strenuous leg workouts for 3–4 weeks (depending on procedure)

    • Walking is encouraged after a few days for circulation

    • Temporary numbness or tightness in the calf area may occur but usually resolves

    Activity & Travel:

    • Botox: You can resume walking and travel immediately

    • Ablation: Light activity after 2 days, full walking after 5–7 days

    • Resection: Rest for 2–3 days, walking resumed after 1 week, no high-impact exercise for 4–6 weeks