Calf augmentation also known as calf implant is a surgery conducted to enhance the lower portion of the leg.
The surgery may be performed for both reconstructive and cosmetic purposes.
While women can go for calf augmentation surgery, the procedure is more popular in men than in women.
This is because men are the ones who are looking to have strong muscle definition in their lower legs.
Calf Augmentation Procedure.
The calf Augmentation procedure involves placing calf implants in the affected area to help restore a normal appearance.
The implants may be placed above the muscle a procedure referred to as subfascial placement or above the muscle referred to as submuscular placement.
The procedure should be conducted by a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience and skills in this area.
You can use our guide on How to Choose the best plastic surgeon for your surgery. to find the best surgeon for your surgery.
The surgery takes approximately 3 hours to complete. Below is a step-by-step overview of what to expect during the surgery.
- Step 1: Your surgeon will administer General anesthesia to numb the area before performing the surgery.
- Step 2: Your surgeon will measure your legs to determine their size. This is important as it will determine the size of the implant to use.
- Step 3: The surgeon makes an incision in the natural line of the fascia.
- Step 4: Your surgeon will use a special instrument to create a “pocket” between the fascia and the muscle. This pocket is big enough for implant insertion.
- Step 5: The implants are then inserted and reshaped until the desired shape and size are achieved. The common implants used during calf augmentation are dense silicone.
- Step 6: The wounds are closed with stitches or sutures for healing.
Who is the right Candidate?
Calf implants are most suitable for anyone looking to have strong muscle definition in their lower legs.
This may include athletes, bodybuilders, or patients who have lost calf tissue due to injury or disease.
If you have thin calves, you don’t like the asymmetry of your legs or you are suffering from diseases such as; club feet, poliomyelitis and spina bifida then you might consider going for a calf Augmentation.
When it is done to correct trauma or disease, it is done as a reconstructive surgery. While when done to improve physical appearance, it is done as a cosmetic surgery.
Calf Implants Cost
The average cost of calf implants is $3,649. This amount, however, is the surgeon’s fee.
If you include additional costs for anesthesia and surgical facility, the total calf implant cost will range between $4,500 and $6,000.
This amount is however not fixed, some procedures such as submuscular placement tend to be a bit expensive due to the technicalities involved.
There are other factors that may increase or decrease calf implant costs. This includes your location, and the surgeon conducting the surgery.
It is good to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with good experience in such types of procedures.
What You Can Expect During Recovery
After calf implant surgery, a full recovery is made after two weeks. However, this may not be the same for all patients. Some patients may take longer periods t recover than others.
After surgery, more so during the first week, crutches are required to assist you to stand and walk properly.
Most patients have reported having resumed their normal activities within 7 to 10 days.
There are a number of things you consider doing during the recovery period. This is in order to reduce the recovery time.
Avoid heavy physical activities such as exercises during the first week after surgery. This is to give your calves time to heal.
Calf Augmentation FAQS
How long do calf implants last?
After calf augmentation, the result may last for approximately 10-15 years.
Are calf implants dangerous?
There is no surgery without risks involved. Sometimes you may be infected, bleed, implant dislodge and move away from the calves or react to anesthesia, however, the risks are minimal. Calf implants are considered to be safe and effective.
Are the Scars Noticeable?
Well, For calf augmentation, the incision is located either behind the knee or under the front knee. Once you have healed, it will be a bit difficult for the scars to be noticed.
