What is a Calf Augmentation ?

Calf augmentation is a procedure to increase the size and shape of the calf.

Many people are dissatisfied with the shape/size of their calf muscles to the point that they avoid wearing garments that expose their legs. In these instances, even intensive exercise may not significantly enlarge the calf muscles, particularly in relation to one’s larger thigh muscles. Calf implants can also be used to correct deformities resulting from injury or muscle deterioration. Such deformities include, polio, club-foot, and spina-bifida.

Men typically seek an appearance that emphasizes the bulk of the calf muscle. Bodybuilders traditionally seek to improve the dynamics of this hard-to-develop muscle group. The difficulty for body builders arises from the location of the muscle ‘belly’ in relation to the bone insertion. Fortunately, calf implants can solve these problems by adding both mass and definition.

Women usually desire calf implants for purposes of anatomical balance, where the lower leg is sculpted to be more proportionate to the thighs.

How is a Calf Augmentation performed?

Calf implants enhance the shape and size of the calf muscles by placing soft, solid silicone implants in pockets overlying the existing gastrocnemius muscles.

An incision is made in the fascia of the muscle.  The implant is then gently inserted into the pocket and the same technique is used to insert the implant into the opposite leg. There will be a scar in the crease behind the knee.

What to expect during recovery

• For the first few days, is important to have the legs elevated as much as possible; you will be able to get up to the bathroom with assistance, and may even walk around short distances
• There may be some slight bruising around the incisions; this will soon disappear. A special scar prevention/lessening medication is begun about two to three weeks following surgery
• No vigorous activities such as weight lifting, bicycling, running, etc. One can usually progress to these activities about a month or two following the surgery but is dependent on any persistent discomfort or swelling and varies from person to person
• Pain and discomfort is controlled with prescribed medication
• The patient is usually able to return to full physical activities within 4-6 weeks