Can you replace the default avatar?

I'd like to know if it's possible to replace the default avatar. I use Maya, have modeled characters and objects in the past, and have also done skeletal-based animation in the past as well. I also see how to produce sculpted prims. Unfortunately, the only way I've found so far to alter the appearance of an avatar is to attach things to different points on the arms, leg, head, etc.. Assuming that the points are connected to a skeletal structure, would it be possible to replace the default avatar or build an avatar over top of the default avatar that shares all of its animations?

What I'm getting at is that I'm used to modeling characters, setting up a skeleton, rigging those characters to the skeleton, and animating the skeleton so that its animations apply to all characters that share that same skeleton. Can this be replicated in Second Life or is it an upcoming feature? Ideally, I'd really like to replace my default avatar with something else.

Is this possible?

Thanks!

Actually in the latest RC they have replaced Ruth with a puffy cloud.

In a word. No.
If it were possible they would be everywhere here already.
May be possible in the future as it may be on the drawing board but don't set a date.
( The RealExtend viewer/simulator for OpenSim does that, sort of thing.)

You got the gist that sculpties are attached to parts so you will have to go that way.
Apparently you can do some good stuff but I've never seen anything good although I've never looked.

Thanks for the information.

Unfortunately, this problem of mine absolutely kills my interest in using Second Life. Hopefully they implement some sort of avatar replacement scheme soon. I registered 2 years ago and have logged maybe 4 hours total over that period of time. It's probably closer to 3 hours total though. Given my lack of interest, buying someone else's avatar products is a waste of money in my eyes, which is why I wanted to build something in the first place that would perhaps get me more interested.