LON (Lengthening Over Nail) Method

In the LON method, external fixators are typically removed after 2-3 months. After the devices are removed, your doctor will advise you to gradually stop using support devices (walker, crutches) over a period of 4-6 weeks. The most important factor here is your X-ray results. If your bones heal normally or well, this process may be shortened or extended accordingly. Over the weeks, your mobility will gradually increase, and you will return to your daily life.

One of the most critical factors determining the recovery period is the amount of lengthening. As the lengthening amount increases (for example, every additional 1 cm), the recovery process also becomes longer.

Here is a video of a patient at our center who achieved an 11.5 cm height increase with 2 height lengthening surgeries.

In height lengthening surgery performed using the LON method, pain is usually most intense during the first few days after surgery. However, this pain is managed with appropriate pain relievers and medications, and it gradually decreases over time.

During the first weeks, pain is typically felt due to the healing of the bones and the stretching of muscles. This pain may persist throughout the lengthening process.

During the lengthening phase, patients generally achieve a length increase of about 1 mm per day, which may cause mild to moderate tension and pain. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in reducing pain and improving mobility during this period.

Pain typically significantly decreases after 4-6 weeks and becomes minimal as bone union is completed.

While methods like Precice allow for a maximum lengthening of 8-8.5 cm, the LON method can achieve 9-10 cm. This is typically achieved in the upper leg (femur). However, this amount depends on the doctor’s approval and the patient’s ability to meet the necessary conditions.

The following are some of the potential risks and complications that may be encountered with the LON method:

1. Risk of Infection: Infections may occur at the points where the external fixators come into contact with the skin.
   This risk can be minimized through hygienic care and regular dressing changes.
   If an infection is not detected and treated early, it could lead to more serious health issues.
2. Nonunion or Delayed Bone Healing: In some patients, the bone may not heal at the expected rate or may not heal completely.
   In such cases, additional treatments like bone grafting or stem cell therapy may be required.
3. Nerve and Muscle Tension: During the lengthening process, nerves and muscles may become tense.
   This can result in nerve compression or muscle pain.
   In cases of severe tension, additional procedures like tendon release surgery may be required.
4. Bending or Fracture of the Nail: The intramedullary nail used during the procedure may bend or break due to excessive load or improper movements.
   If this occurs, surgical intervention is usually necessary to correct the problem.
5. Bone Deformity and Axial Deviation: Misalignment or curvature of the bones can occur.
   In such cases, additional corrective surgeries may be required.

While the likelihood of experiencing these complications with the Combined method is low, the risk can be significantly reduced when the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon and followed by regular medical check-ups.

The cost of height lengthening surgery performed using the LON method typically ranges from $18,000 to $29,000. The price range varies depending on the scope of the treatment, and whether additional services such as accommodation and physical therapy are included.

This price generally covers the following:

• Surgery and a 4-day hospital stay.
• Post-surgery care, including dressing changes and physical therapy.
• A second surgical procedure to remove the external fixators.
• 3 months of accommodation and other health service packages.

A doctor’s consultation is required to determine the exact cost, as the treatment plan and process may differ for each patient.