Calf implants are a cosmetic surgery procedure that can enhance the size and shape of the calves. Some potential benefits of calf implants include the following:
- Improved self-esteem and body confidence
- A more proportionate and symmetrical lower body
- The ability to wear certain types of clothing and footwear that may have previously been uncomfortable or unflattering
Calf augmentation with implants is an invasive surgical procedure. Patients will need to spend time recovering after the procedure to make sure they get the best results. Here we discuss the recovery process after calf implant surgery to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. Centre for Surgery in London is one of the leading plastic surgery clinics in the UK. We are home to specialist body contouring surgeons with years of expertise performing calf implant surgery.
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How long is calf implant recovery?
Recovery from calf implant surgery can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s overall health, the extent of the procedure, and the person’s ability to follow post-operative instructions. However, generally, the recovery period for calf implant surgery can take several weeks.
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Immediately after the surgery, the patient’s legs will be wrapped in bandages, and a compression garment will be worn to help reduce swelling and bruising. The patient will likely experience some pain and discomfort during the first few days following the surgery, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon.
The patient will need to keep the legs elevated as much as possible for the first few days to help reduce swelling. The surgical incisions will also need to be kept clean and dry. The patient will typically be able to walk short distances with crutches but should avoid strenuous activities for at least a few weeks.
Swelling and bruising will typically subside within the first few weeks, and the patient can expect to return to most normal activities within 4-6 weeks after the surgery. However, it may take several months for the final results to be visible and for the implants to settle into their final position.
It is important to follow the surgeon’s postoperative instructions carefully and to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a successful calf implant recovery. It is also important to keep in mind that recovery times can vary and that it is important to be patient and allow enough time for healing.
What to expect during calf implant recovery
Calf implant recovery is a process that can take several weeks. During this time, patients can expect to experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. It’s important to keep the legs elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Patients should also avoid standing or walking for long periods of time during the first few days after surgery, and keep the surgical area clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.
As recovery progresses, patients will be able to start moving around more and may be advised to start physical therapy to help regain range of motion and strength in the legs. However, it’s still important to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. The stitches or staples will typically be removed by the surgeon around week 2.
By the third and fourth weeks, patients will continue to make progress in terms of pain and swelling, but may still experience some discomfort. They will be able to start returning to normal daily activities but should still avoid strenuous exercise or high-impact activities. Physiotherapy will continue to aid in the recovery process, and patients will start to see the results of the surgery.
By the fifth week and beyond, pain and swelling should be minimal, and patients will be given the green light to return to more strenuous activities and exercise by their surgeon. Patients will continue with physiotherapy to aid in the recovery process and will be able to enjoy the full results of the surgery.
It’s important to keep in mind that every person’s recovery is different, so the timeline may vary. Patients should follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, be patient and take care of themselves during this time to ensure the best possible outcome. Compression stockings may be recommended to help reduce swelling and improve circulation during recovery.
Calf implant recovery timeline – week by week
The recovery timeline for calf implant surgery can vary depending on the individual, but in general, it can be broken down into several stages:
Week 1:
- Immediately after surgery, you will likely experience some pain and swelling. Your surgeon will likely prescribe pain medication to manage this.
- You will need to keep your legs elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling and improve blood flow.
- Your surgeon will likely advise you to avoid standing or walking for long periods of time during the first few days after surgery.
- You will need to keep the surgical area clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.
Week 2:
- Pain and swelling should start to subside during this week.
- You will be able to start moving around more, but you should still avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
- You may be advised to start physical therapy to help regain range of motion and strength in your legs.
- Your surgeon will likely remove the stitches or staples at this time.
Week 3 to 4:
- You will continue to make progress in terms of pain and swelling, but you may still experience some discomfort.
- You will be able to start returning to your normal daily activities, but you should still avoid strenuous exercise or high-impact activities.
- You will continue with physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion.
- You will be able to start seeing the results of the surgery at this time.
Week 5 and beyond:
- Pain and swelling should be minimal at this point.
- Your surgeon will likely give you the green light to return to more strenuous activities and exercise.
- You will continue with physical therapy to help with recovery
- You will be able to start enjoying the full results of the surgery.
It’s important to remember that every person’s recovery will be different so the timeline may vary. Always follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions, and contact them if you have any concerns.
Top tips to speed up recovery after calf implants
Follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely, including any guidelines for wound care, activity restrictions, and physical therapy.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.
- Take any prescribed medication as directed to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Elevate your legs as much as possible to reduce swelling and improve blood flow.
- Avoid standing or walking for long periods of time during the first few days after surgery.
- Gradually increase your activity level as your surgeon allows, starting with light walking and gradually progressing to more strenuous activities.
- Wear compression stockings to help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
- Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and high-impact activities for several weeks after surgery.
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet to aid in the healing process.
- Consult your surgeon if you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms.
Calf Implants at Centre for Surgery
Centre for Surgery is a specialist plastic surgery clinic specialising in calf augmentation surgery. We carry out more calf augmentation procedures than anywhere else in the UK and are home to some of the most experienced plastic surgeons in London. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of calf augmentation using implants, get in touch with us today at 020 7993 4849, or complete the contact form below.
