Many people are dissatisfied with the shape or size of their calf, particularly in relation to larger thigh muscles. Calf implants can be used to enhance calf shape or size or correct deformities resulting from injury or nerve diseases that result in muscle deterioration.
How Does Calf Augmentation Work?
Two surgical techniques are used for calf implants: the submuscular and subfascial calf augmentation procedures. Submuscular augmentation involves creating a pocket in fibrous sheets of tissue underneath the major muscles that make up the calf. In contrast, the subfascial augmentation procedure creates a pocket between muscle and the fascia underlying the skin.
Using these techniques, the implants are protected by tissue under the skin or muscle fiber, producing a comfortable, natural looking, and visually pleasing result.
The procedure begins with an incision through the skin in the crease at the back of the knee and the formation of a pocket in the calf tissue. Your surgeon will then insert and carefully position the implant within the pocket. The incisions will be closed with sutures or surgical adhesive and bandages will be applied.
After Calf Augmentation: Recovery
You may need to wear compression stockings for a few weeks to reduce swelling and provide comfort and support as you heal. Bandages and sutures will be removed in one to two weeks. Your scars will be hidden and will fade considerably over time. With AART Body Contouring Implants, you can achieve the shape, definition, and contours that you desire.
Will There Be Visible Scars From My Calf Implants?
Yes, there will be scars where the incisions were made to place the calf implants. These incisions are not located right in the middle of the calves, however. Instead, they are precisely made horizontally across the fold at the back of the knee. The incisions do become scars, but they become lighter in color and flatter over time, eventually forming scars that are barely visible and hidden in the knee fold.
How Long Will My Calf Implants Last?
Calf implants are considered permanent. It is possible you will need to replace or revise the implants at some point. They are not guaranteed to last a lifetime. Wear and tear over the years could degrade the implants, or they could become malpositioned, or some other issue could arise requiring revision. Because they are semi-solid silicone and not gel-based, these implants are not susceptible to rupture or deflation like a breast implant.
How Do I Prepare for My Calf Augmentation Procedure?
Dr. Cusick’s staff will make sure you are feeling confident and ready for your surgical appointment. We provide complete preparation and aftercare instructions. In the weeks and days before calf implantation, you will:
- Stop smoking or other tobacco use
- Discontinue use of aspirin and anti-inflammatory medicine (don’t discontinue any medication without talking to your doctor)
- Get any tests requested by Dr. Cusick
- Fill prescriptions, if applicable
You will arrange for someone to accompany you to the surgical facility, stay with you, and drive you home. You will also need someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours following the procedure.
What Can I Expect on the Day of My Calf Implant Surgery?
You’ll come to the facility with your companion for the surgical day. We will make sure you have all your last-minute questions and concerns addressed, and that you are feeling comfortable about the procedure.
Depending on what you and Dr. Cusick previously discussed, general anesthesia may be administered, or IV anesthesia may be introduced to the treatment area, according to your treatment plan. Dr. Cusick will complete the steps of the procedure according to the plan, and the incisions will be closed. You will be brought to the recovery room and observed until we know you are ready to go back home.
How Soon Can I Work Out After Calf Augmentation Surgery?
You will need to take 1-2 months off from working out, including weight-lifting, running, and bicycling. You and Dr. Cusick will decide when the time is right based on your recovery. Most people are back to full activities after 6 weeks.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Calf Augmentation Surgery?
Like all surgical procedures, calf implants are associated with certain risks. It’s important to note that the complication rate for this procedure is low. Your consultation will include an in-depth discussion of the risks, especially whether you have any existing conditions that would increase certain risks, such as:
- Infection
- Hematoma
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Asymmetry
- Visible implant edges
- Temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the area
As stated previously, the complication rate is low and you can keep it low by choosing an experienced cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Cusick. He and our team do everything we can to promote great-looking results while preventing complications.