Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about Calf Implants

HOW CAN CALF IMPLANTS CORRECT PHYSICAL APPEARANCE PROBLEMS AND ENHANCE MY LIFE?
Calf implants are used in surgical procedures to enhance, reshape, or better define the outward appearance of the musculature/definition of the body. In many instances calf implants will provide the desired body contour symmetry specifically when muscular development was affected because of a genetic birth defect, or serious injury. Other common applications include those individuals that may simply feel unattractive, or wish to enhance their body contours, resulting in a more aesthetic appearance.

WHO WILL BE MY SURGEON?
In every case, the surgeon you choose will be the doctor you'll first meet during your initial consultation. He will also be the same surgeon who will perform your surgery, look after you and provide all of your post-operative care, including emergency care if required.

HOW LONG DOES CALF IMPLANT SURGERY TAKE?
It generally depends on the type and extent of the procedure, but each procedure usually takes between one to two hours.

IF I'M VISITING FROM OUT-OF-TOWN, HOW LONG SHOULD I REMAIN AFTER SURGERY BEFORE DEPARTING?
With any type of implant surgery, you should allow 1-2 days for your recovery after surgery. Your surgeon will advise you if there is a change in this waiting period.

WHERE WILL THE OPERATION BE PERFORMED?
Most operations are performed at an Outpatient Surgery Center. These center are usually state licensed and/or federally (Medicare) certified meets the highest standards of care. Surgeons have their own facilities and usually hospital privileges as well, meaning they have an association with a nearby hospital, if needed.

WHAT TESTS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE MY SURGERY?
All patients undergoing general anesthesia will require basic blood and urine tests as well as a pregnancy test for women. Your surgeon will advise you accordingly during your consultation.

WILL IT HURT?
During the procedure, our anesthesia staff will assure that you're comfortable and will feel no pain. In every instance, you'll be asleep throughout the entire procedure. This will be discussed with you in detail during the initial consultation. After surgery, any pain or discomfort you may experience will be controlled through medication and will usually subside within a matter of days.

HOW SOON CAN I GET BACK TO WORK?
It depends greatly on the specific procedure, but on average most patients are back to work within 3 to 7 days. If complications arise, additional time away from work may be required.

HOW LONG WILL IT BE BEFORE I CAN EXPECT A FINAL RESULT?
This varies with the type of operation being performed. It also depends on the individual. Some people bruise easily, while others don't. Generally there will be swelling and some bruising after surgery. Both will usually disappear over a week or two. The final optimal result can usually be appreciated a few months after surgery.

WILL THERE BE SCARS?
Yes, but they probably won't be noticeable.Your surgeon will make every effort to keep incisions as minimal as possible and try to hide them in the natural lines and creases of your skin. The scars will fade over time and become barely noticeable.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS?
As with any operation there are certain risks. The most common risks include bleeding, infection and scarring. Although these events are usually infrequent, they sometimes can occur. These will be discussed with you during the consultation for your procedure.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Less than you think. After years of being perceived as something only for the rich and famous, cosmetic surgery is now priced for everyone. Patients from all income brackets are now undergoing surgery. Please keep in mind not all patients are alike and some will require a slightly different operation than others. However, you will receive a specific price quotation during your consultation visit. Our staff is always happy to discuss these matters with you in more detail.

CAN I FINANCE IT?
For your convenience, we accept VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Our office can give you all the details, either before or at your consultation. At the time you decide to book your procedure a 50% down payment is required.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE COST OF MY OPERATION?
Your operation will include the surgical fees and anesthesiology professional fees, the outpatient surgery center facility charges, and all of your post-operative care. Lab tests, x-rays, and other pre and post-operative tests and medications are not included.

WILL INSURANCE COVER IT?
Not usually because body implants are considered elective procedures and most insurance plans don't cover it. But there are exceptions. Some functional surgical procedures may be covered by health insurance, in part or in full, depending upon your health insurance policy and the procedure you are having performed. Your counselor will assist you with verification of coverage, completion of insurance forms, submission of your claims, and follow through on your behalf for maximum benefits.

IF I'M UNHAPPY WITH MY RESULTS, WILL I BE CHARGED FOR A REVISION?
We will do our best to give you the results you desire. Unfortunately, no guarantee or warranty can be given. Occasionally, some patients are not pleased and may require a revision operation to correct an undesirable result. If this should occur there is usually no charge for our surgeon's professional services, but anesthesiology fees, surgery center facility charges, and any other ancillary expenses are the responsibility of the patient.

HOW MUCH DO CALF IMPLANTS WEIGH?
Generally it depends on the size of the implant. But, generally they only weigh a few ounces each.

CAN BODY FAT BE USED INSTEAD OF AN IMPLANT FOR CALF AUGMENTATION?
Not usually. Fat is good for augmenting smaller areas, such as areas on the face, or even in cellulite smoothing, but not larger areas. Free Fat Transfer (FFT), is commonly used for lip enhancement, or smoothing wrinkles and cellulite depressions, but because it tends to be absorbed or 'washed' from the area, it isn't ideally suited for larger fills.

WILL I NEED TO TRAVEL TO YOUR OFFICE FOR A CONSULTATION PRIOR TO MY SURGERY, OR WILL A PICTURE BE ADEQUATE?
Generally, a photograph of your problematic area will do, to start the evaluation process. Your surgeon will view the area you are inquiring about, and then consult with you. Normally, he begins the consultation by telephone, but would need to see you in advance of any planned surgery for an examination at least a day before any surgical procedure.

CAN CALF IMPLANTS BE USED TO HELP POLIO VICTIMS? HOW ABOUT IF A PERSON HAS A CLUBFOOT CONDITION?
If a person has suffered from non-anatomical calf muscle development as a result of polio, calf implants can often help achieve anatomical balance, in many cases, depending on the severity of the condition. In the case of clubfoot, calf implants can help one achieve the appearance of muscular balance.

WHAT ABOUT FAT TRANSFER FOR CALF IMPLANTS. SOME SURGEONS ARE USING THIS METHOD INSTEAD OF A SOFT SILICONE IMPLANT. DOES THIS WORK AS WELL?
Not usually. Fat is good for augmenting smaller areas, such as areas on the face, or even in cellulite smoothing, but not larger areas. Free Fat Transfer (FFT), is commonly used for lip enhancement, or smoothing wrinkles and cellulite depressions, but because it tends to be absorbed or 'washed' from the area, it isn't ideally suited for larger fills. There is little evidence to support this type of large mass FFT, with successful results.

For more information, contact: info@calfimplants.com

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