I had calf implants done in 2000. The last few years I noticed that they were becoming very hard.

Question

Within the last year and a half they became rock solid. I am not kidding! If you touch them you would swear there were rocks under my skin. After 17 years I finally found the Plastic Surgeon who did my surgery in another state and I went to see him. His reply was he could not take them out because they were encapsulated. Now they hurt when I touch them or bump my legs together. I am at a loss on what I should do next. Thank You.

Rikesh T. Parikh, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, it sounds like capsular contracture or excessive scar tissue. If you have pain from them they should probably be removed with or without a capsulectomy. Capsulectomy will require a larger incision. to remove. Thanks.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Based on your description and the fact that the calf implants were in place for 17 years, means the implants are encapsulated. The implants can be removed. The question is can the capsule be totally removed through a small popliteal (back of knee) incision? If you can accept a larger incision them most of the capsule can be removed.You will need the operative note from the original surgeon to know exactly where the implant was put.Skin laxity is another concern.

I had calf implants done in 2000. The last few years I noticed that they were becoming very hard.

Answers (2)

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I had calf implants done in 2000. The last few years I noticed that they were becoming very hard.

Answers (2)

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