There are dozens of reasons why people seek out or consider calf implants. Men want to emphasize their muscle, while women may want to achieve aesthetic balance. With calf implants, the lower part of the leg is sculpted to be in proper balance to the thighs and the entire body. Even those who spend a lot time working out can experience little result. If people are unhappy with the size and shape of their calves, to the extent they avoid wearing clothing that will expose their legs; they may begin considering calf implants. People who have high insertions generally experience trouble building calf mass as well. By adding mass and definition, calf implants could enhance the overall look of their legs.



How Do You Decide on the Look?

The experience and realistic expectations of the patient and doctor are critical elements in determining shape and size. A skilled surgeon who can correctly work with proportions may sculpt and place the implant accurately, and be able to foresee any other future problems.

Since calf implants have the potential to enhance the size and shape of the muscles by putting solid, soft silicone implants in parts overlying the existing muscles, it is quite important to keep a realistic expectation of what the outcome will be.

What to Expect

During a patient's pre-op visit, the legs get measured and implants that are appropriately sized are ordered and prepared to be sterile. On the day of the procedure, the patient is placed under general anesthesia and gets turned onto their stomach during the operation. A special tool is used to create a pocket in between the fascia and the muscle underneath, and the incision is actually done in the fascia of the gastroc muscle. The section gets made only big enough for the calf implant to fit comfortably but tightly.

Recovery has two parts. The first is short term surgical recovery. Surgical recovery takes about one week after the procedure, where the patient begins to walk, but elevates the legs when they sit or lay down to reduce discomfort. During the first day, the patient will stay in bed with their legs raised. Though short walks to the restroom or kitchen are recommended. When the dressing gets removed, the patient can begin to walk around more, and gradually get back into a normal routine. This allows the muscles to become accustomed to bearing the calf implants and enables the skin to stretch and feel comfortable.

About three weeks after the procedure, the long term recovery phase starts, where a much more typical walking routine is incorporated into the daily schedule and the skin starts to stretch, losing the shiny appearance.

Very few surgeons perform calf implants because for one, it is a unique procedure. Calf implants are silicone, solid prosthetic devices; therefore they must be carved or shaped before being inserted into the body.

Take your time finding someone you can trust, and feel comfortable with, to perform this procedure for you. Make sure it's a highly qualified health professional with expertise in the specialty you are interested in.