Legs
Who is a candidate for Calf Implants?
As far back as Da Vinci, a highly-sculpted, muscular physique has always been an admired human physical quality. However, because of genetic programming, trauma, cancer, or congenital muscular and neurological disease, the desired muscle shape and volume cannot always be achieved. Plastic surgeons are able to replace calf muscle volume and shape by inserting synthetic, soft, silicon implants to achieve the desired muscle shape.
Calf implants enhance the shape and size of the calf muscles by placing soft, solid silicone implants in pockets over the existing calf muscle, the gastrocnemius muscle.
Resistance training, more commonly known as weight lifting, will result in growth of a normal muscle. When the shape and volume of the muscle has reached it’s limitations in growth, implants can be placed to provide shape and volume. Those who seek body contouring by calf implants include male body builders, those with deformities from trauma, and those with medical conditions, such as polio.
What are some of the most common benefits of calf implants?
The procedure enhances the size and shape of the leg. And as a result, most patients are more confident in their appearance. Scars are placed behind the knee in a natural crease and are not generally visible.
What will happen at the initial consultation?
A detailed medical history and physical examination are performed at the initial consultation in Akron, OH. Bring a list of medications both prescription and over the counter with you, as some medications can cause bleeding at surgery. During the consultation you will be asked about your general health, your motivation for seeking calf implants, and your preferred calf shape. Leg measurements are made and the size of the implant chosen.
How is the procedure performed?
The legs are measured at a pre-operative office visit and the appropriately pre-manufactured sized implants are ordered. Custom implants can be made. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient. We ask that you stay in the Akron, OH area at least 3 days after your surgery. Incisions are made behind the knee in a natural crease. A pocket is made just big enough for the implant to fit securely. The area is examined for the desired effect, and if the result appears good, then the incision is closed with stitches.
What to expect after surgery
In most cases of calf implant surgery, patients can stand up and walk immediately after surgery, but should rest and elevate their legs as much as possible for the first week. And while patients must wear support leg stockings for a few weeks after surgery, they can usually resume exercise and other activities after six weeks. The results are permanent and generally do not interfere with sports or weight lifting.
What can I expect after the procedure?
With adequate pre-operative preparation, attention to detail intra-operatively, and attentive post-operative care, patient satisfaction after this operation is extremely high. Calf implants have been very successful in allowing patients to achieve their desired leg size and shape. Patients frequently less self-conscious and note an improvement in self esteem.
By and large once these implants are placed, they last for several years. Rarely, revision surgery may be required to reposition an implant that has moved. Long term some patients can develop excessive scar tissue around the implant, which can cause pain or distortion, requiring surgery to replace or remove the implant.