The desire for defined calves is strong for both women and men. Many people work out their calves until they are lying, cramped up on the gym floor-yet they still can not develop defined calf muscles. Even trained bodybuilders may have trouble developing calf muscles that are proportionate to the rest of their body. That is where calf implants come into play. And you do not just have to be a bodybuilder to get these implants to make your legs look good. They are also beneficial for men and women who have suffered an injury or a neurological disease, such as polio or spina bifida, that has caused the calf muscles to deteriorate. Another benefit is the correction of the condition known as “bow legs” or “bowed legs.”

Calf augmentation with fat grafting

Calf augmentation can be successfully performed with your own fat. This technique is accomplished by Fat Transfer. The results can be extremely natural. Because the procedure uses unwanted fat from your own body, there is no chance of rejection. The only drawback with this technique is that the amount of implanted fat that will remain cannot be predicted. Fortunately, Dr. Abuzeni has developed a proprietary technique to assure approximately 90% retention using platelet rich plasma (PRP). The use of PRP is common in many surgical procedures as it enhances healing and wound regeneration. PRP is prepared from your own blood during the first few minutes of the surgery.

Fat transfer technique is not associated with any of the risks associated with the use of a solid implant. There is minimal scarring and postoperative discomfort. You will need to wear a specially designed garment for about three to four weeks. You will be able to walk immediately after surgery, and may return to work in about three to five days. After about two to four weeks you will be able to return to the gym.

The Implants

Calf implants are constructed to be soft, yet solid; the implant is made primarily of silicone. They are soft but firm, and have the feel of a well-exercised and developed calf muscle. The calf implants are available in different sizes to suit your needs. It is not a one-size-fits-all type of implant-different people want different results. You will be measured and fitted for implant size at your preoperative visit. The surgeon can custom design the implants for you by making a mold of each individual calf muscle and sending it to the manufacturer or, if equipped, process it right in the office. A custom fit reduces discomfort and irritability.

How do you prepare for surgery?

You will be given a preoperative information packet that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. The information explains the types of medications you should not take for up to two weeks before your surgery. These medications will include, but are not limited to, aspirin-containing products.

Will incisions be visible?

Expect it to take nine months to a year before your scars flatten out and lighten in color. While they will never disappear completely, calf augmentation scars will not show even with bare legs as the incision is usually made in a normal skin crease in the back of the leg.

What is the surgery like?

A calf augmentation with implants procedure normally takes about two hours to perform. The implant is placed through a small incision in the back of your leg under the muscle.

Where is the procedure performed?

Most patients choose to perform their surgery in an outpatient surgical center or an office-based facility; others prefer a hospital.

What will the recovery period be like?

For the first few days, your calves will be swollen and you are likely to feel discomfort, which can be controlled with medication. You will be given instructions for showering and changing your dressings. Although you may be able to walk around, you should limit your movements. You may return to exercise and other activities after six weeks.