Oftentimes it can be difficult to perfect aspects of our body, and this in turn has led many people to turn to cosmetic surgery. Calf augmentation is an operation that requires an incision behind the knee for an insertion of a silicon implant. The implant give the impression of a larger, more defined calf muscle in both men and women. Quickly growing in popularity, it is important for anyone considering the surgery to be well educated in what the whole operation entails.
Consultation
One of the most important steps in deciding to opt for the surgery is finding the right doctor who can assist you in choosing the right operation. When a potential patient goes in for their first consultation, the doctor will advise her as to what size and shape implant will provide the most natural and best-looking result.
How the Operation Is Performed
The operation is performed on an outpatient basis and depending on the patient's preference, either local or general anesthesia can be used. The incision is made directly behind the knee, just large enough to place the implant under the skin, but small enough that the fit is snug. After the cut is made, the implant is placed above the calf muscle rather than under. After both implants are in place, the doctor ensures a symmetric and natural look of the calves before stitching the incisions closed.
Risks
While the risks involved in having a calf implant are minimal, there are still some dangers to consider before undergoing the operation. The worst case scenario is a shift in the implant to make the calves appear abnormal and asymmetric. Other risks include complications due to infection after the surgery and the stitching, which could warrant another trip to a medical facility.
Recovery
The pain associated with recently completed calf augmentation is similar to what sore muscles feel like after they have been extremely overworked. That pain tends to last between 7 and 10 days, which is the point when the patient can return to work, according to CosmeticSurgery.com. Although the patient may return to work, he must not stress the calf by walking excessively. After roughly one month, the patient should see a return to normal walking and a complete recovery between four and six weeks after surgery.
Cost
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the national average cost of a calf augmentation was $3,649 in 2009. Although that is the total for the surgical costs, the number does not include costs of anti-inflammatory or pain medication. Most medical insurance will not cover the costs for such an operation; however, since it is cosmetic surgery.
Tags: after surgery, behind knee, calf muscle, cosmetic surgery, cosmetic surgery Calf
