How to Get Calf Implants

Calf implants have recently increased in popularity, as more men and women embarrassed about the size and/or shape of their lower legs are choosing to have a specialty surgeon resculpt them. Generally, two solid but soft silicone implants are inserted in each calf (4 total per patient) via small incisions behind the knee to address cosmetic or genetic problem areas. Most individuals in good health may be considered as candidates for calf augmentation. Cost varies by region but averages about $4,000 in the U.S.

Instructions

1. Find a plastic surgeon possessing calf augmentation experience and with whom you are comfortable. Talk with him or her in detail about the procedure (from pre-surgery to post-recovery) and whether diet, exercise or other non-invasive options might solve problems with the size and/or shape of your calves.

2. If you and your plastic surgeon determine that calf implants are right for you, work together to find an implant sized and shaped properly for your full body type.

3. Set an appointment and undergo calf implant surgery, which generally lasts about two hours and can be conducted under local, regional or general anesthesia. Approximately 1.5-inch incisions will be made behind the knees and deepened. The implants--two in each calf--are inserted within muscule compartments on top of actual muscle fibers.

4. Allow for 24 hours bed rest post-surgery and approximately one week of minimal activity (walking should be limited and your legs kept elevated as much as possible). You will likely be sent home with local anesthetic, compression stockings and special heeled shoes to help alleviate discomfort during the recovery process. Strenuous activities such as workouts will be restricted for about six weeks.

5. Schedule and attend follow-up visits with your plastic surgeon. Typically patients and their doctors meet two days after the operation, then weekly for three weeks, then at six weeks, three months, six months, one year and then annually.

Tips & Warnings

• Find an experienced plastic surgeon with whom you feel comfortable. Most plastic surgeons do not perform calf augmentations on a regular basis.

• The largest size implant may not always make for the best outcome. Talk with your doctor to help determine the right size and shape implant for your body and have realistic expectations.

• Follow your plastic surgeon's recovery period instructions. Patients who return to their regular activity routines too quickly risk developing bleeding, excess swelling and other complications.