Overview
The legs are one of the most important parts of the body. It is critical in keeping us mobile, gives us our foundation in doing various physical activities, and has a great effect on our stature. In today’s society, however, aesthetics also plays an important role in shaping our body.
And the legs, being also the largest parts of our body, can easily be noticed. Their shape and tone can affect the way the person looks, both to others and themselves. While clothing can easily hide the thighs, the calves can easily be seen, which is why underdeveloped or thin calves can have a negative impact to a person’s self-esteem. This is where calf augmentation surgery can help.
What is calf augmentation surgery?
Calf augmentation surgery is a procedure that aims to improve the look, shape, size, and functionality of a patient’s calves, by installing silicone implants over the muscles. Depending on the patient’s requirements, the size, shape, and placement of the implants may vary. Some may want to improve the inner calf, others, the outer calf, and others will go for a balanced look.
The procedure begins with the surgeon measuring the patient’s legs in an appointment before the actual surgery. This is needed in order for the surgeon to have enough time to order the right sized implants and to prepare them for surgery.
Once the implants are ready, the patient returns for the surgery. The patient is given a general anesthesia and laid down onto the operating table on their stomach. Incisions are made in the fibrous covering of the calf muscle called the fascia. Afterwards, pockets are made between the fascia and the muscle, using a special instrument in order to have the right size for the implant to be slid in and placed securely.
Once all implants are in place, the doctor examines the leg to see if the desired look has been achieved. If everything is in order, the surgeon closes up the incision, and the patient’s operation is over.
Risks, Complications, and Recovery Time
All major surgery procedures carry risks and possible complications. Infection can occur, and swelling can get worse beyond the normal swelling caused by the stretching of the skin. Stitches can be reopened and can cause bleeding if too much pressure is applied to the leg before full surgical recovery happens.
Also, calf implants can shift and change position if not secured properly, giving the calf an asymmetrical appearance, and will need to be fixed via further surgery. This is why it’s important to find the best surgeon possible, and to follow the doctor’s instructions to the dot.
Recovery time can take anywhere between a week and a half for surgical recovery (wherein the person can begin walking short distances), to around three to four weeks for cosmetic recovery (wherein the stretched skin begins to adapt and look more normal).
Why get calf augmentation surgery?
Aside from the aesthetic benefits, calf augmentation surgery can help reduce the negative effects of injury, trauma, and congenital defects to the legs. Some of these include polio, spina bifada, and various genetic deformities. Calf implants provide the needed anatomical balance to the legs.