Large Ankle Causes: Understanding the Root of the Problem Beyond Weight Gain

Many women think that fat ankles are just a product of being overweight. Yet, that is only sometimes the case. Excess fat around the calf and ankles, commonly called a cankle, occurs in women of all shapes and sizes.

It's most distressing for women that are otherwise slim but have bulky lower legs. They may feel that their ankle is disproportionate to their frame, causing them to feel self-conscious and not reveal them in public. 

These issues can lead to a restricted wardrobe of just long skirts and pants and an entry into persistent self-esteem issues that are difficult to address.

If you aren't overweight but still have excess fat around your ankles, there are several reasons why this can occur.

The likely scenario is that your large ankles are a genetic issue, but let's read on to get an in-depth view of why their form and what can be done to treat them. 

Weight's Role in Cankle Formation

One of the leading causes of large ankles is being overweight. Being overweight will lead to excess fat in several areas where you are genetically prone to forming it. For some people, the lower regions of the body are predisposed to storing extra fat. 

Therefore, losing weight can naturally slim your ankles.

Yet, if you're already at your ideal weight, this will not likely cause your large ankles.

Other Common Causes of Large Ankles

As Elite Body Sculpture Founder and acclaimed cosmetic surgeon Dr. Aron Rollins describes, large calves and ankles can be caused by factors outside of stubborn fat, including muscle development and bone structure. 

Here are various root reasons cankles can form outside of weight-related causes: 

1. Injury: A sprained ankle, a fracture, or any other damage to the ankle can cause swelling and lead to a fat ankle.

2. Bone Structure: Those with a large ankle bone and tibia can be prone to having a prominent lower leg. 

3. Large Muscles: Significant cycling or other exercises can lead to massive calves, which feel much harder than fat and cannot be removed surgically or with weight loss. 

4. Water Retention: Fluid can accumulate in the tissues around the ankle, causing it to look bigger than usual. This can happen due to various reasons, such as hormonal changes, medication, or an underlying medical condition.

5. Lymphedema: This is a condition where there is a blockage in the lymphatic system, leading to fluid retention and swelling in the ankle.

6. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, women may experience swelling in their feet and ankles due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins.

7. Organ Issues: Potential causes that should not be overlooked are heart, kidney, or liver problems. Therefore consult with your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.

8. Medications: Large ankles can also appear after taking certain medications. If you suspect this to be the case, still consult a doctor to analyze what can be done within your medication regime to reduce your swollen ankles. Under no circumstance should you alter your medication dosage without the consultation of a professional.

9. Diet and Environment: Swollen ankles can also be caused by hot weather or excess sodium in your diet. See how your ankles react in colder temperatures, and don't add too much salt to the foods that you consume.

The Best Option To Reduce Fat Ankles

If the cause of your large ankles is excess fat within the area, Elite Body Sculpture's patented AirSculpt treatment can precisely target and easily remove excess fat tissue.

Elite Body Sculpture specializes in fat removal procedures that can deliver outstanding results without the invasive properties of traditional liposuction and surgery.

Our AirSculpt® CankCüre™ is a minimally invasive fat removal procedure that doesn't use a scalpel, needle, stitches, or general anesthesia, providing patients with a comfortable experience that they can enjoy while being fully awake.

We're the next generation of body sculpting and look forward to helping you achieve your body goals. For more information on how we can help you sculpt away cankles, visit our Chicago office or one of our 25 + body sculpting locations worldwide to schedule your free consultation.