Calf augmentation

Calf implants are artificial enhancements used to bulk up the appearance of the calf muscles in the lower leg.

This procedure is popular with both men and women who are looking for a more athletically toned lower leg, but are unable to achieve this through exercise. Calf Implants are designed to give you a more balanced appearance with your upper leg shape.

This procedure is performed for both aesthetic and reconstructive reasons. Calf implants create proportionality and improve the appearance of not only the legs but the entire body. All calf implants are made of a silicone material.

The implants are solid, but soft.

Ideal candidates should be in good overall health, psychologically stable, and aware that calf implants are intended for aesthetic improvement, not perfection.

Patients should arrange a consultation with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to determine whether they are good candidates for calf implants. During this consultation, they should discuss their cosmetic goals and expectations and ask whatever questions they might have about calf implants.

This procedure can be combined with other procedures to produce an end goal of toned legs. This would include an inner thigh lift, cellulite treatment and liposuction to create a slimmer leg shape. Also hair removal and IPL (intense pulsed light) can be done to improve skin smoothness, texture and tone.

The calf implant procedure can take up to 2 hours per implant to complete.

A general anesthetic is recommended together with an overnight stay in the hospital. During the calf implant procedure, an incision is made in the natural crease behind the knee. The surgeon then creates a pocket large enough to place the calf implants. Silicone semisolid implants are planted in the calf of each leg.

The calf implants can be placed on both the upper inside or outside of the leg. This area, consisting of muscle and fat, will form scar tissue that will help keep the implant in place. The incision is closed with sutures, and a bandage is applied to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Swelling is moderate for the first week, then gradually resolves. Mild bruising usually occurs and may cause pooling of the bruise in the lower leg. Most patients can resume very light walking and activities after the first week following calf implant surgery.

Vigorous physical activities should be delayed for about six months.

All surgical procedures carry an inherent risk of certain complications.

Risks can include infection, blood loss, fluid collection, movement of the implant or scarring. There is also a risk of adverse reaction to anesthesia. Significant complications from calf implants are unusual, however. In extremely rare instances, the calf implants may weaken the nearby muscle.

If the implant is infected, ruptures or moves, the implant may have to be removed, which is not always a straightforward procedure. If you think the implant has ruptured you should contact your doctor immediately.

Calf implants is considered a permanent procedure.