When patients are dissatisfied with the shape and size of their calf muscles, to the point of avoiding exposing them, they seek out calf implants. There are many cases where diet and exercise may not be enough to create the look being sought; there may be an aesthetic imbalance, where implants come in to be a solution. Calf implants may use solid, soft silicone implants to address the problematic areas.

There are a myriad of reasons why calf implants are sought out. While men seek an appearance that emphasizes the muscle, women desire calf implants for purposes of aesthetic balance. The lower leg is sculpted to be proportionate to the thighs, the butt and the rest of the body. Many people who spend time in the gym may not achieve the look they seek because of the proximity of the belly of the muscle in relation to their knees and ankles; much time can be spent with muscle development but with little result. People with high insertion have difficulty in building calf mass, due to the lack of striated muscle in the area. Those with low insertion can achieve denser mass, but may lack definition that is synonymous with high insertion muscle type. Calf implants may solve both scenarios by adding both mass and definition.

A critical element in determining size and shape is based on the experience and of the realistic expectations of both patient and doctor, respectively. The skill of a surgeon who can work with proportions correctly may properly sculpt and place the implant, foreseeing any future issues.

Since calf implants can enhance the shape and size of the muscles by placing soft, solid silicone implants in sections overlying the existing muscles, it is very important to have a realistic expectation of how the outcome may be. The calf being a two-headed muscle, it is on the rear of the leg that attaches to each side of the femoral bone- just above the knee, extending down the leg ending at the Achilles heel.

Implants are placed through small incisions in the creases of the leg, behind the knee. A patient may desire only to have the inner head of the muscle enlarged, the outer head, or both. The result may be that the existing musculature is created to appear larger and more muscular.

During your pre- op visit, the legs will be measured and appropriately sized implants will be ordered and prepared sterile. The day of surgery, the patient will be placed under general anesthesia and turned onto their stomach, during the procedure. The incision is made in the fascia of the gastroc muscle, while a special instrument is used to create a pocket between this fascia and the underlying muscle. The section is made just large enough for the implant to fit snugly. During this time of the procedure, careful attention is paid to control any bleeding - which is usually minimal. The implant is then gently maneuvered into the section and the same technique may be repeated to insert the second implant into the same leg, if need be. The leg is examined for final result effects and if it appears good then the incision in the fascia is closed with stitches or sutures. The person is then returned to their normal position, and taken to the recovery room.

Recovery is split up into two parts- short term surgical recovery and long term cosmetic recovery. The surgical recovery will take a week or so following the procedure itself, where the patient is instructed to walk, but to elevate the legs when seated or laying down to reduce discomfort. In the first day or so, the patient will be in bed with their legs elevated most of the time, with short trips to the restroom or around is recommended. When the dressing is removed, the patient is encouraged to begin a more normal routine of walking around. This lets the muscles get accustomed to bearing the implants and allows the skin to start stretching and feeling comfortable. After dressings are removed the patient may be able to take short daily showers. Once the patient is feeling more comfortable, it is suggested to take longer walks even if there is some stiffness and discomfort. This is when the long term recovery phase begins to take over.

In long term recovery, which begins about three weeks after surgery, is where a more normal walking routine begins and the skin begins to stretch and loses its shiny appearance. With some bruising around the incisions, over time this will begin to disappear. Your surgeon may prescribe a special scar prevention medication to begin following the surgery. Vigorous activities are discouraged, as to give time for the healing process to take effect. Barring any complications, a patient resumes normal activities about a month or so following surgery.

It is vitally important to realize that there are a very few number of surgeons who perform calf implants. It is a very unique procedure and only a few perform it on a regular basis. Calf implants are solid, silicone prosthetic devices. They must be carved or shaped, prior to insertion into the body. Having the expertise to properly shape the implant, is a process where you want a qualified expert surgeon. Your experienced surgeon will be able to work with your individual body type to sculpt the most natural fit for you.