Calf Implants

Calf implant surgery is performed under sedation or general anaesthesia and takes approximately 1 hour to complete. A small incision is made in the crease at the back of the knee and through this the soft, solid silicone implant is inserted. The implant is positioned so that it rests on top of the calf (gastrocnemius) muscle and the wound is closed with dissolving sutures.

For patients with abnormally tight calf skin, Mr Karri may suggest the skin is first stretched out using a temporary tissue expander. After the skin had stretched out, usually after a several weeks, the expander is replaced with the implant.

<Video of calf implant surgery>

Recovery From Calf Implant Surgery

All patients should expect at least two weeks off from work and for those with a more strenuous job, more recovery time may be necessary. Strenuous use of the legs should be avoided for at least 6 weeks to allow for healing and ensure the implant is securely positioned.

Most patients spend the first week resting with their legs elevated. During this time you may find it more comfortable to walk on your toes on in shoes with a small heel. Walking upstairs should be avoided. In the second week, you may resume light activities and during the third week you may resume work and begin to go out socially. Exercise can be resumed 4 to 6 weeks following surgery. As your legs adjust to the implants, the discomfort will lessen. The final result will not be apparent for several weeks.

What Does Calf Implant Surgery Not Do?

It is important to understand calf implant surgery will not create bodybuilder calves. The aim of surgery is to create a natural-appearing larger calves that are in proportion to the rest of the lower limbs.

As with any surgical procedure, risks should be considered, and the decision to undergo calf implant surgery should not be made hastily. Risks include;

Scars / poor scarring – in the vast majority of patients, the incision behind the knee heals very well. In some patients however, the scar may become red, raised or asymmetric (appear different on each leg.

Bruising and swelling – bruising and swelling is expected but rarely, can persist for several weeks.

Bleeding and haematoma formation – it is possible, though unusual, to experience a bleeding episode during or after surgery. Should post-operative bleeding occur, emergency treatment may be necessary to drain the accumulated blood.

Infection – should an infection arise then treatment with antibiotics or further surgery may be necessary. The risk of infection is rare.

Delayed wound healing – the incision made in the crease at the back of the knee may take longer than expected to completely heal.

Asymmetry – there is always a risk of asymmetry whenever surgery is performed on both sides of the body. It is important to understand that nearly everyone has some pre-existing asymmetry e.g. the right calf muscle (gastrocnemius) may be naturally larger than the left.

Altered sensation– one should expect some altered sensation around the legs and this will usually resolve by 6-12 weeks after surgery.

Implant displacement – displacement of the implants can occur in the early post-operative phase. This is prevented by avoiding pressure on the legs or excessive movement.

Capsular contracture – a thick scar may form around the implant, distorting the shape and causing pain.