Some consider calf implants as an equivalent to breast implants in females. For some people, the legs are an asset, and having calves that are asymmetrical or disproportionate to the rest of the body may look unpleasant. For athletes, or people who go to the gym, having skinny or small calves can be a struggle because it may seem like they are not putting forth as much effort as they truly are. However, there are instances wherein no matter how much a person exercises, the calves still stay the same. If you are someone, whether male or female, struggling with issues regarding your calves, read on to know more about what calf implants can do for you. 

What are Calf Implants?

Calves implant, also known as calves augmentation, is a cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedure. The implant is capable of defining and improving the shape and size of the calves, which are located on the lower part of the leg. There are two types of implants currently used for this procedure, namely the silicone gel implant and the solid silicone implant. Silicone gel implants are available in symmetrical and asymmetrical sizes. The symmetrical sizes can be used for anyone who wants a calf implant. In contrast, the asymmetrical ones are meant for bodybuilders who desire to have more volume than the natural body. On the other hand, solid silicone implants are custom-made based on the patient’s goal and needs. 

Benefits of Calves Implant 

Calves implants are beneficial to a lot of people, most notably, athletes who want legs that look proportionate to their body, models who consider their legs an asset, and people who are conscious about the appearance of their body. Whether you are one of those three types of people or not, you can still get calves implant if you think that you are someone who needs them. Some of the benefits that you can experience when you have calf implants are: 

• Enhancement of the shape and size of the calves
• Increase in confidence 
• Proportioned legs with other parts of the body 
• Improved contours of the legs 
• More toned calves 

Calves Implant Procedures

A calf’s implant procedure takes around one to two hours and is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. The size and shape of the implant that is to be placed depends on your needs, goals, and physical limitations. Usually, surgeons use longer calf implants that are two inches below the knee and three to four inches above the ankle. The steps in the process of calves implant are as follows:

1. The doctor first draws a guide on your legs while you are standing up. 
2. They then administer either local anesthesia with IV sedation or general anesthesia. 
3. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the doctor makes a 3-4 inch incision at the back of the patient’s knee to hide any scar. 
4. They will then make a pocket either at the back or front of the muscle in the leg. 
5. The implants will then be inserted in the pockets that were made. 
6. When the implants have been secured in place, they will close the incisions using sutures. 

Calves Implant recovery time

Just like all plastic surgery procedures that involve contouring, calves implant also takes some time to recover. It is expected that you will experience pain, swelling, and bruising, especially in the first two weeks. To ease the discomfort from these side effects, your doctor will give you pain medication, which you will take as needed or as prescribed. You can have a hard time walking for the first few weeks, but elevating your legs and wearing high heeled shoes can ease swelling and pain. Your doctor will also have you wear a compression stocking to reduce any swelling. Strenuous activities and exercises should be avoided for six to eight months. To aid in faster healing, you should make sure to eat healthy food and avoid alcohol for at least three weeks. 

Calves Implant before and after

A study in the Brazilian Journal of Plastic Surgery showed that 97% of calves implant outcome was successful and without complications. After the procedure, you will be able to notice significant improvements in your calves, just like in the before and after picture below. Despite the implant, visually, the calves still look natural, and the implants will not be noticeable. When it comes to the functionality, the leg and the muscles therein should still be able to move freely.

   

Individuals who struggle with the appearance of their calves can now improve it through calves implant. This surgical procedure involves the insertion of an implant into the pockets made in the calves. This can benefit a lot of people, but most especially athletes and people who exercise but gain no improvement in the calf area. The process takes one to two hours and uses general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The usual material used for this kind of implant is a silicone gel or solid silicone, which does not rupture or leak as compared to implants used in the breast. The recovery period takes about six to eight weeks to fully recover from the surgical procedure while also diligently following the doctor’s post-surgery instructions. 

When getting calves implant, a board-certified plastic surgeon that has done several procedures for the calves must perform the operation to assure safety and success. In Korea, there are several clinics with certified surgeons who are considered as top doctors in plastic surgery. For a consultation, you may contact Seoul Guide Medical through our website. We guarantee you excellent results and calves that are proportionate to your body shape and size.