The calves are a hard muscle for both genders to develop since they do not always respond well to work-outs. Calves are also susceptible to deteriorating disorders. Small calves can make wearing shorts or bathing suits a sensitive and sometimes embarrassing subject. A solution to this problem is calf implants, which can balance the leg’s shape and give the legs a more appealing contour. Calf implants can also be used to bring back a normal appearance to victims of deteriorating diseases and injury.
Calf implants are solid rubbery silicone shapes that are placed in pockets overlying the patient’s own calf muscles. Calf implants come in a number of sizes so that patients can choose the one that best compliments the shape of their leg. The calf implant is placed via a small incision in the back of the knee. Usually, two implants are positioned in each leg over the heads of the gastrocnemius muscle.
Calf Implant Recovery
Activities
Patients need to keep their activity level at a bare minimum for 5-7 days after surgery. Due to postoperative pain and swelling, walking is much more comfortable in high-heeled shoes during the initial healing period. Most patients find that it takes 6-8 weeks before they can function without problems.
You may return to work in 1 week if your work involves mainly sitting. If you are extremely active at work, wait about 3 weeks or until the pain becomes minimal. Patients should not perform aerobic or strenuous exercise for at least 3 weeks. Listen to your body in order to decide what it can tolerate.
Walking
Initially, walking in high heels will be easier. As the swelling decreases, return to flatter shoes as it becomes tolerable.
Position
Use a footstool or a lounge chair to elevate your legs as much as possible. This will help minimize the swelling and discomfort.
Swelling
Your calves will swell and feel tender. Wear compression stockings and/or Ace wraps for the first several weeks.
Sutures
Sutures will be removed in 7-10 days.