Calf implants in Turkey, Cost of Istanbul Clinics

What is a calf implant and who is it for?

A calf implant is a reconstructive surgical device designed to correct a loss of calf muscle volume resulting from an accident (trauma that has destroyed or reduced muscle mass) or a neurological condition (such as polio-type damage or partial paralysis) that has caused muscle atrophy. It is not an elective cosmetic procedure, but a targeted correction of the affected leg, aimed at restoring symmetry with the healthy leg.

How does a calf implant work?

The implant is a durable medical-grade silicone prosthesis, surgically inserted under the skin, in contact with the calf muscle. Once in place, it fills the muscle volume deficit and restores a natural calf contour, consistent with the other leg.

The procedure targets the back of the calf exclusively. Any other concern regarding the legs, for example, excess skin on the thighs, falls under a separate procedure, such as thigh reshaping, to be discussed separately with the surgeon.

What criteria determine eligibility for this procedure?

Before recommending a calf implant, the plastic surgeon verifies that the patient meets the following conditions:

• The traumatic or neurological origin of the muscle loss is confirmed through a medical assessment, which rules out other causes (vascular, orthopedic) requiring different management.
• Good overall health, with no contraindication to anesthesia or surgery.
• The absence of untreated vascular disease in the affected limb.

This evaluation, carried out during the pre-operative consultation, helps determine the implant size and shape best suited to each patient.

The Turquie Santé medical team supports each patient throughout their journey, from the initial assessment through post-operative follow-up, to achieve a functional and lasting result.

Types of calf implants

Calf implants can be divided into several types. Each has advantages and disadvantages. The two main types are:

• Silicone-based calf implants: Most calf implants contain silicone with a rubbery consistency. Inserted under the skin, they make the concerned body part fuller and more pronounced. This helps define the calf muscles and make them look bigger.
• Calf enhancement with fat transfer: Fat grafting is sometimes a good choice for overweight patients. During this procedure, excess fat is taken from the stomach or thighs of the patient and then transferred to the calves by making a small incision through the skin.

Calf Prostheses VS Fat Transplantation

Fortunately, nowadays, many options are available for patients with thin legs on the market. Compared to calf implants that are inserted directly into the calves, fat grafting provides a more discrete and non-invasive method for solving leg issues.

The duration of the Procedure

A calf implant surgery per se takes about an hour and a half. This does not include the preparation time before surgery, as well as recovery from anesthesia.

First, the cosmetic surgeon will inject your calves with an anesthetic to numb them. Then he will make incisions for inserting the silicone implants. When the operation is finished, the surgeon sews up the wound.

Generally speaking, a calf augmentation's effect is not durable and lasts from 10 to 15 years. A lot depends on daily habits, age, body weight, and many other factors.

Final result of Surgery

A calf augmentation is a safe cosmetic surgery. Therefore, serious complications are excluded. However, there are some possible side effects. These include among others:

• Bruising;
• Redness;
• Soreness;
• Swelling.

Calf augmentation is a plastic surgery with a very high success rate, compared to other aesthetic procedures.  Many patients are satisfied during the postoperative period. An immediate and visible change in the size of the legs is noticed. In addition to that, the shape of the legs is greatly enhanced and the contour of the calves becomes more defined.

The recovery period needed after surgery

As a rule of thumb, patients are advised to take a few days off work for a complete recovery. The doctor may prescribe compression bandages that need to be applied and kept on the knees for at least two weeks after the procedure. During this period, you should avoid strenuous activities and heavy exercises, like going to the gym or walking for long hours. However, post-operative care in special rooms at the clinic might be needed.