Calf augmentation is helpful for those who want to restore or enhance the shape of their lower legs because they have small, disproportionately sized calves. The human body looks the most attractive when each of its parts is relatively proportional to the others. Having small calves can be surprisingly noticeable, particularly when the individual involved tends to wear clothes that highlight this perceived shortcoming.
Calf augmentation is not just for those who were born with smaller calves; it helps those who exercise and lift weights. Sometimes, one part of the body simply will not respond as well to building muscle as the other parts. The calves are notoriously difficult to become “cut” for many people who work out.
| Procedure Type | Surgical; silicone implant placement. |
| Purpose | Define and add volume to the calves. |
| Satisfaction Rate | < 90% |
| Anesthesia | Local. General anesthesia rare. |
| Areas Treated | Calves. |
| Results Seen In | Initial results immediate; final results in 4-6 weeks. |
| Recovery Time | Six weeks for many patients. |
Table of Contents
What is Calf Augmentation?
A calf augmentation procedure is performed for those who would like to enhance the size of their calves and make them more proportional to the rest of their body. The procedure involves the surgical insertion of silicone-based implants into the calves to enhance their size. Calf augmentation enjoys a high rate of success and low odds of side effects.
How Calf Implants Work
Each calf implant contains silicone, which is commonly used in other types of medical implants. This is a durable, rubbery material. After your plastic surgeon inserts your calf implants under your skin, your calves will take on a fuller appearance.
Calf Augmentation Cost
In the most recent year that information was gathered, the average cost of calf augmentation was $3,707, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, this is just an average. The cost of your individual procedure may vary, depending upon factors like where you live, your plastic surgeon, and other factors.
Surgeon’s fees don’t always take into account costs like medications, hospital rooms and anesthesia. When calculating your procedure cost, you should also consider how much time you would need to take off from work if you are not using paid time off.
Since calf augmentation is considered to be a cosmetic procedure, insurance will not cover it. You may want to calculate all of your costs prior to your procedure and arrange for a payment plan, if necessary.
Calf Augmentation Procedure
Your calf augmentation procedure will be performed on an outpatient basis. So your surgery will take place at either a hospital or your surgeon’s office, and you will be able to return home that same day.
Calf implant surgery normally takes about 90 minutes to complete. This does not take into account preparation time or recovery from the effects of anesthesia. In all, expect to spend a complete day dealing with your calf augmentation procedure.
Before your procedure actually begins, you will be administered anesthesia by an anesthesiologist, putting you to sleep so that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. This anesthesia can be given using IV sedation or a mask.
Calf Augmentation Recovery Timeline
Here is what you can expect following your calf augmentation procedure:
First 24 Hours
- You will be provided with prescriptions for pain killers and antibiotics, which you should take according to the instructions provided.
- You should be discharged within 24 hours after your procedure.
- Get some good bed rest for the first 12 to 14 hours.
- Elevate your legs when resting without bending your knees.
- 24 hours after your surgery, you can begin walking and taking care of yourself.
Up To Three Weeks
Keep your dressings in place for around seven days after your surgery. You will also be provided with pressure stockings to be worn for five weeks. The stockings will offer support to your implants and ensure that they are compressed against your muscles.
- After seven days, you can begin taking short walks again and performing light work.
- For the first three weeks after your surgery, avoid lifting heavy objects or standing for long periods of time.
Two Months Later
- In about eight to 10 weeks, you can begin exercising and engaging in sports activities again.
- Discuss with your plastic surgeon when you can resume work. This time frame depends upon the nature of your work.
- Your scars can be expected to heal and become less visible with time.
