Health
Move over, Ozempic. There’s a new slimming trend sweeping TikTok, but this one’s strictly for the gams.
People on the platform are discussing using Botox injections in their calf muscles to slim them down in a hot trend nicknamed “calf tox.”
While cosmetic Botox is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat fine lines and wrinkles, such as frown lines and crow’s feet, as well as for some medical treatments — it’s also been used in untraditional ways.
“Trap tox,” for example, involves injecting Botox into the trapezius muscles and also recently went viral on TikTok.
But now, Botox is being used as a treatment to slim down the calf muscles, those in the back of your lower leg, to make them look thin and contoured.
And the “calf tox” trend has already captivated TikTok with 2.5 million views on the platform — despite potential side effects that could lead to pain and discomfort, swelling and bruising, allergic reaction, infection, and/or weakness and inability to exercise, according to The Clifford Clinic.
Botox can weaken the calf muscles, which in turn could affect the ability to do some exercise. The Clifford Clinic advises avoiding strenuous physical activity for at least two weeks after the procedure.
Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue, told POPSUGAR that anyone who wants to “improve the appearance of their lower legs” is a “good candidate” for the procedure — as well as people who have muscle hypertrophy (an increase in muscle mass) or have genetically developed bulky calf muscles.
“Calf tox is an off-label use of Botox where it is injected into the calves for a slimming effect,” Carol Eisenstat, MD, board-certified physician and founder of Line Eraser MD, told the outlet.
Eisenstat emphasized that results are slow and temporary and might be different for each individual, though she said results can last up to four months and that the procedure is quick and non-invasive.
“By directly preventing the communication between the nerve cells and muscle, Botox decreases the muscle contractions, which gradually narrows the circumference of the calves,” Engelman explained, noting that calf Botox is generally safe and has no serious or long-term side effects.
“Potential temporary side effects can include redness, mild bruising, soreness or tenderness, or difficulty ambulating,” Engelman said.
Of course, the calf muscle supports you when you stand and allows you to move your feet and lower leg. It helps you stand up straight, It allows you to walk, run, jump, rotate your ankle, lock your knee and flex your foot.
A Botox injection into the calf temporarily paralyzes the muscle, making it unable to fully contract — which Eisenstat warned could potentially affect the function of the muscle.
The unknown and unpredictable atrophy of the muscle could potentially lead to permanent disability, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Zoran Potparic, MD said in a discussion post on Real Self.
However, he emphasized that the use of Botox in muscles for cosmetic purposes is “still within unchartered waters” and there’s currently not enough information to know predictability and long-term safety aspects.
Both doctors advised seeking out a board-certified specialist for this specific treatment.
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Dr. Debi Johnson is a medical expert and health journalist dedicated to promoting well-being. With a background in medicine, she offers evidence-based insights into health trends and wellness practices. Beyond her reporting, Dr. Debi enjoys hiking, yoga, and empowering others to lead healthier lives.
