Skip to content Skip to footer

Ankle Liposuction (Cankles) Sydney

Table of Contents

Fat accumulation around the lower legs and ankles, commonly referred to as “cankles,” can be a persistent concern for many individuals, regardless of their overall body weight. For those seeking to refine the shape and contour of their lower legs, ankle liposuction may offer a considered surgical solution.

Dr Mark Kohout, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney, offers this highly targeted procedure to patients aiming to address such concerns with realistic expectations and professional guidance. With over two decades of experience in body contouring and a deep understanding of lower limb anatomy, Dr Kohout ensures every patient receives individualised care. His commitment to ethical practice, combined with a focus on long-term results, makes him a trusted provider for ankle liposuction in Sydney.

CLICK to Download Dr Mark Kohout’s Liposuction Guide

Understanding Ankle Liposuction

What Is Ankle Liposuction?

Ankle liposuction is a procedure designed to remove small, stubborn pockets of fat that accumulate around the ankle and lower leg. These fat deposits are often resistant to diet and exercise, making surgical intervention a suitable option for some patients. The procedure aims to enhance the overall shape of the lower limbs, promoting a more proportional leg appearance. It is commonly performed using fine cannulas and advanced liposuction techniques to allow for precision and reduced trauma to surrounding tissues. This helps reduce recovery time and supports more even fat removal.

Ankle liposuction can be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with other areas such as the calves or knees for a more comprehensive contouring outcome. The goal is always to produce subtle, balanced changes that harmonise with the rest of the leg.

Why This Area Requires Expertise

The ankle is a delicate area with minimal fat and complex anatomical structures, including nerves, blood vessels, and tendons. Surgical precision is essential to achieve results that are both safe and aesthetically balanced. Unlike areas with more abundant fat, overcorrection or asymmetry in the ankle region can be particularly noticeable. Dr Mark Kohout brings extensive experience and surgical training to this area of practice, providing personalised care to patients across Sydney. His comprehensive approach includes a thorough understanding of how lower limb aesthetics relate to overall body proportions. Mastery of surgical techniques, patient assessment, and postoperative care are all critical in ankle liposuction due to the anatomical delicacy and high visibility of the area.

Who Might Consider This Procedure?

✓ Determining Suitability

Candidates for ankle liposuction are typically individuals in good health who are close to their ideal body weight but have persistent fat around the ankles. These patients should also have good skin elasticity to accommodate the refined shape after fat removal. A thorough consultation with Dr Kohout helps determine individual suitability based on anatomical and medical factors. During the assessment, lifestyle factors, previous surgeries, and any vascular or lymphatic conditions are also evaluated to ensure the safest approach. Patients who experience swelling or discomfort due to the bulk in the lower legs may also benefit from the functional advantages of a slimmer profile, as it can make movement more comfortable and reduce pressure on footwear.

✓ Common Reasons Patients Seek Help

Many patients visit Dr Mark Kohout’s Sydney clinic feeling self-conscious about disproportionate lower legs. This concern can be hereditary or due to changes over time. Often, patients report frustration that targeted exercise and dietary changes have not improved this area. Some may feel restricted in their choice of clothing or footwear, especially during warmer months. Others mention avoiding social activities due to insecurities about the appearance of their legs. Dr Kohout, as a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, understands the unique aesthetic and emotional considerations that accompany such concerns. He works with each patient to understand their goals and explain the scope and limitations of what ankle liposuction can achieve. Through a collaborative process, patients are empowered to make informed decisions aligned with their needs.

Take our Plastic Surgery Quiz to find out if you’d be a good candidate and if you are ready for cosmetic surgery.

How the Procedure Works

✓ Step-by-Step Overview

Anaesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. Depending on the extent of fat removal and the patient’s preferences, this may involve local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. Dr Kohout will discuss the most appropriate option during the pre-operative planning. Once the patient is prepared, small incisions are made in discreet areas near the ankles. These are typically placed in natural creases or behind the ankle bone to reduce visibility after healing. Through these incisions, a narrow cannula is used to gently dislodge and remove the targeted fat cells.

The process is carried out with great care to maintain symmetry and avoid any irregularities in the contour. Once the desired contour is achieved, the incisions are closed, and compression garments are applied. These garments play a crucial role in minimising swelling, supporting skin retraction, and helping the area heal into its new shape. Patients receive detailed instructions on post-operative care to support recovery and maintain results.

✓ Personalised Surgical Planning

Each procedure is tailored by Dr Mark Kohout to match the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals. A detailed consultation at his Sydney clinic includes an assessment of skin quality, fat distribution, and desired outcomes. This customised approach helps ensure the surgical plan aligns with individual needs. Advanced imaging or photo assessments may be used to illustrate potential outcomes and discuss areas of concern. Dr Kohout will also outline a detailed recovery plan specific to each patient. He considers factors such as age, lifestyle, physical activity levels, and the presence of any underlying health conditions. His personalised approach ensures that each surgical journey is based on sound clinical judgement and clear communication.

What to Expect During Recovery

✓ The Initial Post-Surgery Period

Patients typically experience mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the initial days following the procedure. Compression garments are worn for several weeks to support the healing process and maintain the new contour. Patients are encouraged to rest and elevate their legs to reduce swelling. Dr Kohout will monitor healing progress through scheduled reviews at his Sydney clinic. It is important to follow all aftercare instructions carefully, including avoiding baths, direct sun exposure, and vigorous leg movement in the early stages. During follow-up appointments, Dr Kohout evaluates healing and answers any questions that arise during recovery.

✓ Return to Daily Activities

Most patients can resume light activities within a few days, with more strenuous tasks delayed for a longer period as advised by Dr Kohout. Walking is encouraged early on to support circulation, but exercises involving the lower legs should be avoided initially. Patients may return to work within a week, depending on their job requirements and how they are feeling. Regular follow-up visits at his Sydney practice ensure the recovery is progressing as expected. Any concerns or unusual symptoms are addressed promptly by the clinical team. The full aesthetic results typically become apparent over several months as swelling subsides and tissues settle into their new contours.

Considering the Benefits and Limitations

✓ A Balanced Perspective

Ankle liposuction can enhance the definition and shape of the lower legs, allowing for improved fit in clothing and footwear. Many patients report increased satisfaction with their leg appearance and greater comfort in their daily wardrobe choices. However, outcomes vary based on individual factors such as skin tone and natural anatomy. Some patients may benefit from combined procedures or staged treatments for optimal contouring. Factors like age, skin elasticity, and the presence of underlying vascular issues may influence both the surgical plan and expected results. Dr Mark Kohout provides clear, realistic guidance to ensure patients understand what the procedure can and cannot achieve. His approach avoids exaggerated claims, instead focusing on achievable, patient-specific improvements. This honest and measured communication is central to patient satisfaction and long-term results.

✓ Safety and Surgical Experience

With over 25 years of experience, Dr Mark Kohout performs all procedures with strict adherence to safety protocols. As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon practicing in Sydney, his approach prioritises patient education, informed decision-making, and outcome consistency. His team follows rigorous sterilisation, monitoring, and post-operative protocols to minimise risk. He also maintains continuous professional development, staying current with best practices in aesthetic surgery. Dr Kohout’s clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that patients receive care in a modern, hygienic, and accredited surgical environment. Patients benefit from the reassurance that they are in expert hands throughout the entire process.

Your Consultation with Dr Mark Kohout

What Happens During the Appointment

During the initial consultation, Dr Kohout will review your medical history, examine the ankle and lower leg area, and discuss your aesthetic goals. He will explain the procedure in detail, including potential risks, expected recovery, and realistic results. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and share their concerns. The consultation is also an opportunity to review before-and-after examples (where appropriate) and understand the expected timeframes for healing and final outcomes. Dr Kohout’s warm, professional manner helps patients feel at ease, fostering open dialogue and a strong foundation for trust.

Taking the First Step

If you’re considering ankle liposuction, booking a consultation with Dr Mark Kohout is the best way to explore your options. Based in central Sydney, his clinic offers a professional and supportive environment where your concerns are addressed with clarity and care by a certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon. His team is committed to ensuring each patient feels informed, comfortable, and confident in their surgical decisions. From the first inquiry to post-surgical care, every step is handled with attention to detail and a focus on patient wellbeing. To learn more or to arrange your initial consultation, contact the clinic today.

FAQs About Ankle Liposuction

How does ankle liposuction differ from procedures performed on areas with more fat, like the abdomen or thighs?

• Ankle liposuction requires greater precision due to the low volume of fat and dense anatomical structures. The margin for error is smaller, making surgeon experience critical.

Can ankle liposuction change how shoes or boots fit, especially if I’ve struggled with tightness around the ankles?

• Yes, many patients notice improved comfort in footwear after recovery as swelling decreases and the ankle contour becomes more defined.

If I’ve experienced swelling in my ankles in the past, how will that impact my eligibility for this procedure?

• Chronic swelling may indicate underlying vascular or lymphatic issues. Dr Kohout will evaluate this thoroughly during your consultation to ensure safety and suitability.

Are there noticeable differences in outcomes between treating only the ankles versus combining the procedure with calf liposuction?

• Combining ankle and calf liposuction can improve overall leg harmony. Dr Kohout will recommend the most balanced approach depending on your anatomy and goals.

What considerations are taken into account to ensure a symmetrical and natural result in such a precise area?

• Symmetry is planned through careful mapping, intraoperative adjustments, and post-operative follow-up. Dr Kohout uses established protocols to reduce the risk of uneven results.

Will weight fluctuations after surgery affect the results specifically in the ankle area more than in others?

• Significant weight changes can impact results in any liposuction site, including the ankles. Stable weight maintenance is encouraged for long-term satisfaction.

How do you manage and minimise the risk of irregularities or contour deformities in this anatomically delicate region?

• Dr Kohout employs refined techniques, uses micro-cannulas, and avoids over-resection to minimise these risks. Post-operative care also plays a key role in shaping outcomes.

Medical References
  • Undesirable Outcomes from Liposuction of the Calves and Ankles: What to Avoid?
    Medical Archives (Med Arch), 2020 – This case report from the University Hospital Center “Mother Teresa,” Tirana, Albania, discusses complications such as contour irregularities after ankle and calf liposuction and emphasizes careful patient selection and surgeon experience. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7780796/
  • Liposuction of the Knees, Calves, and Ankles
    Clinics in Plastic Surgery, 2005 – This article reviews the specific challenges of liposuction in the knees, calves, and ankles due to anatomical complexity and aesthetic considerations. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0733863505701340
  • A Journey Through Liposuction and Liposculture: Review
    Annals of Medicine and Surgery, 2017 – A comprehensive review of liposuction techniques, safety, and applications including lower extremity contouring. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2049080117303916
  • Liposuction Techniques: Background, Pathophysiology, Presentation
    Medscape Reference, 2023 – An up-to-date clinical overview of liposuction procedures, including indications and anatomical considerations for calves and ankles. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1272642-overview
  • Lipoplasty of the Calves and Ankles
    American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal (ASJ) – This article details surgical techniques and outcomes for sculpting calves and ankles using lipoplasty. (Note: Access may require institutional login)  https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/23/2/121/188086
  • The Effects of Small-Volume Liposuction Surgery of Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue on Metabolic and Inflammatory Markers
    International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2019 – This research article evaluates systemic effects of liposuction including on lower extremities fat removal. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/16/18/3298
  • Liposuction – StatPearls
    NCBI Bookshelf, 2015 – A detailed medical textbook chapter covering liposuction techniques, safety, and anatomical considerations relevant to ankles and calves.
    (Note: Access may be temporarily restricted but this is a trusted government-affiliated source) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563135/

Further Reading

Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Mark Kohout

Dr. Mark Kohout is a highly qualified specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 25 years of experience, based in central Sydney. 

Trained in Great Britain, Australia, and the U.S., he co-founded Australia Plastic Surgery. Specializing in breast, genital, and male breast surgeries, he is a certified member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS). 

Dr. Kohout has appeared in media like The Biggest Loser and has published several articles in his field.

Icon
0
Years of Experience
Icon
0+
Successful Procedures
Icon
0+
Available Treatments
Our Trusted

Accreditations

FRACS new logo
CONTACT US

Ready to enhance your appearance?

Get in Touch


    This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks, read more.

    X

    Get Your Liposuction Guide

    This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

    Get Your Female Genital Surgery Guide

    This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

    Get Your Excess Skin Surgery Guide

    This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
    Make an Enquiry