Calf implants
The purpose of a calf implant (calf augmentation) is to give the calf a more desired shape, particularly if they are out of proportion with the rest of the leg. Calf implants can also be used to correct both congenital and physical defects such as polio, spina bifida or clubfoot.
What does the procedure involve?
This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes an incision behind the back of the knee and places soft, solid silicone implants in pockets overlying the existing gastrocnemius muscles. The implant is then held in place by the calf muscle or stitches.
What are the benefits and what are the risks?
Benefits
The main benefit of a calf implant is that it improves the overall appearance of the leg, giving more confidence enabling the patient to show off their legs in skirts or shorts.
Risks
The main risks include those which are associated with most surgery and include infection, bleeding and collection of fluid. As incisions are made, scarring can occur behind the back of the knee. Scars do fade with time and the scar is generally small and barely noticeable. In some cases the implant may move or even rupture which may mean it has to be removed, which is not a straightforward procedure.
Is it the right procedure for me?
The main reason for choosing to have calf implants is that the calves may appear too small or thin in appearance. However, in some cases it is the rest of the leg that gives the calf this appearance so it is necessary to talk to your doctor or surgeon to identify whether implants are the right procedure to achieve the look you are after. It is also recommended that before opting for surgery, alternative methods of improving calf definition are tried, such as exercise that involves intensive muscular toning.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure can take up to two hours per implant depending on the size of the implant and the complexity of the procedure.
What happens after surgery?
When leaving hospital your calves will be bandaged and there will be bruising around the affected area. For the first few days following surgery you will need to rest and you’re your legs raised to avoid swelling. After this time you will be advised to walk around as much as possible. Vigorous exercise however, such as weightlifting, cycling or running should be avoided for between four and six weeks.
How much is it likely to cost?
Prices start from about £2,500
Responses to Calf implants
Ask an Expert about Calf implants
Thank you for visiting our ask an expert site. We are currently experiencing an exceptionally high level of enquiries and have had to temporarily suspend questions. Please check back soon as this site will be back up and running once all questions have been answered. Alternatively, call MYA on 08000 14 10 14 or you may find your answer in some of our previous questions.
Lenora Marlow on 09.06.2007 at 13:15 (Reply)
is there a danger of embolism
Hi Lenora, One of the experts on our pannel has answered this question. “There is a calculated risk in patients who have a history of deep vien thrombosis. We advise not to have the procedure in these cases. However, patients with no history can safely have the procedure if the prophylactic measures are taken during the course of the treatment.”
james singleton on 18.06.2007 at 23:14 (Reply)
i have a very toned athletic upper body and thighs but have unfortunately got the skinniest calves and ankles i have ever seen, this is soul destroying for me, i no that you can have calf implants and i am almost certain i am going to have them but what about my ankles does the operation make them look bigger or would i need a further operation if ther is 1?
Hi James, As far as I know, I have never come across anyone who has had surgery on their ankles. I have known people to have lipo to remove fat but not the other way round. The actual calf implant will give an improvement to the calf and this may detract attention from your ankle. It is always best to go along for a free consultation with a cosmetic surgery company and they may be able to answer any more questions you have. Hope this is ok!
L on 29.08.2007 at 18:54 (Reply)
Hope this email finds you well. I write to you in hopes that you may help me.
I recently had calf implant surgery in the UAE by a plastic surgeon, unfortunately the implant was not positioned properly and after a few months had past my doctor agreed to do a second surgery to re position and stabilize the implant. Immediately after I awoke and tried to walk I noticed that I was dragging my leg as if I had no control of the lift in my right leg. I became very concerned and ask my doctor why this had happened. My doctor told me with no uncertainty that my surgery was a success and nothing was harmed during surgery to have this dragging, he said all was normal and I would be back to normal after some time. Not convinced of his answer I had nerve conduction studies and a MRI done only to find out my right peroneal nerve is damaged. I have loss of feeling on my out right leg and my muscles have deteriorated. In order for me to walk fairly normal I have been fitted with a leg brace. I have been in contact with the doctor that did the surgery but he says that he does not know how to fix the nerve and lends know assistance.
I am really desperate and sadden by the surgery. I would really appreciate your help and advice on how to correct my problem so that I can go back to a normal life.
Surgery date: April 6th 2007.
Hi L,
I am sorry you have had such an unfortunate experience.
MYA do calf implants, fortunately we have never had this problem.
You really need to see a specialist neurologist, not a cosmetic surgeon.
Good luck.
Sophie
maggie on 06.09.2007 at 16:18 (Reply)
can calf implants over 15 years ago cause heaviness in the leg and difficulty and mild pain getting up from a sitting position signal removal asap. I am in my 50’s.
Thank you.
Hi Maggie,
With any implants you can develop scar tissue around the implant. It is not dangerous but is uncomfortable and may get worse.
Sophie
virginia on 20.10.2007 at 15:52 (Reply)
Hi I’v been thinking of having calf implants for some time now, i had polio as achild which has resulted in muscle waeteage in one leg, would the procedure be suitable for me.
i would love to speak to anyone who has had this procedure done particularly polio victims
Hi Virginia,
I have asked one of our experts Christine Davies and this is her response.
I have no patients who have had calf implants following Polio.
The surgeon should be able to advise you at a consultation.
These are free with MYA. Call 08000 14 10 14.
Sophie
rochelle on 27.10.2007 at 13:03 (Reply)
hi can the calf implants correct bow legs?
Hi Rochelle,
Calf implants are inserted on the insiede of the calf. Thus giving a balanced shape to the whole calf.
There would be some improvement.
Call MYA free on 08000 14 10 14 for a free consultation.
Sophie
Lucinda on 19.12.2007 at 14:58 (Reply)
Hi
About 10 years ago I had calf implants. Although they improved the look of my legs I never felt they looked natural (at bit like a tennis racquet, wide at the sides but not round like natural calf muscles). I now would like larger implants as they appear to have shrunk. Has the shape of implants improved and is it ok to have my current implants replaced with larger ones?
Hi Lucinda,
They can be replaced.
You would need to come in for a free consultation.
Call 08000 14 10 14.
Sophie