What is limb lengthening surgery?
Limb lengthening surgery is a procedure designed to permanently increase a person’s height by surgically intervening in the leg bones. During the operation, the bone is carefully cut, and a gap is created. The body naturally fills this gap with new bone tissue. Using devices during the process, the bone is lengthened by approximately 1 mm per day. This method is chosen for both aesthetic and medical reasons. Modern techniques make it a safe and effective procedure. Throughout the process, doctor consultations, physical therapy, and rehabilitation support are of critical importance.
How is limb lengthening surgery performed?
Limb lengthening surgery is performed under general anesthesia and consists of several stages:
- Surgical Intervention: The surgeon selects either the upper leg (femur) or lower leg (tibia) bones, carefully cutting the chosen bone. An internal nail is inserted, or external fixators are mounted.
- Lengthening Process: Starting five days after the surgery, the bone is lengthened daily by 1 mm, which is achieved through precise adjustments made by the patient.
- Healing Period: After the lengthening is completed, a waiting period begins for the bones to strengthen and consolidate. Physical therapy and regular check-ups help muscles, joints, and bones adapt.
- Removal of Nails or Fixators: Once the lengthening is complete and the bones have healed, the internal nails or external fixators can be removed through a surgical procedure. This step depends on the patient’s preference and the doctor’s recommendation.
Who is suitable for limb lengthening surgery?
Limb lengthening surgery is generally suitable for healthy adults whose growth plates have closed. Eligible candidates may include:
- Medical Needs:
– Individuals with leg length discrepancies (e.g., one leg shorter than the other).
– Those with genetically short stature (conditions like dwarfism or achondroplasia).
– People with bone deformities or losses due to trauma.
- Aesthetic Reasons:
– Individuals experiencing low self-esteem due to short stature.
– Those requiring greater height for their profession or social life (e.g., modeling, acting).
- General Health and Age Requirements:
– Individuals aged 18-55.
– Those without serious health issues like heart disease or diabetes.
Eligibility is determined through detailed medical examinations, tests, and approval by the surgeon. The process requires both physical and psychological preparation.
Can you provide information about the tests and evaluations conducted before surgery?
Before surgery, a comprehensive evaluation process is carried out. The initial step involves reviewing X-ray results to determine the amount of lengthening required to maintain body proportions and achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance. At this stage, the planning of the materials to be used is also completed. During the physical examination, the doctor can estimate the maximum achievable lengthening.
If you have any chronic conditions, additional tests may be necessary; otherwise, standard tests such as detailed blood tests, EKG, and anesthesia evaluations are conducted. Once all tests are approved, the surgery date is set, and all necessary preparations are completed. This process is meticulously managed to ensure a safe and successful surgery.
Can you provide information about the methods used in limb lengthening surgery?
We offer two advanced methods for limb lengthening surgery to help you achieve your desired height safely and effectively:
- LON Method – $22,850 (Includes Device Removal Surgery)
- Safe Lengthening: Combines internal nails and external fixators for a secure and controlled process.
- Height Increase: Achieves 5-7.5 cm in the lower leg and 8-10 cm in the upper leg.
- Mobility: Allows for assisted walking over short distances during the lengthening phase.
- Recovery Time: External fixators are removed within 2-3 months; full recovery takes 9-12 months.
- Walking Support: Patients typically start walking unassisted after 5-6 months.
- Preferred Method: Most commonly chosen due to its reliability and affordability.
- Precice 2.2 Method – $46,000
- Innovative Technology: Uses magnetic nails entirely within the bone, eliminating the need for external devices.
- Height Increase: Achieves 6-7 cm in the lower leg and 8-8.5 cm in the upper leg.
- Comfort: Absence of external fixators results in reduced pain and a more comfortable experience.
- Mobility: Wheelchair use during the lengthening phase enhances comfort.
- Recovery Time: Patients typically walk unassisted after 5-6 months; full recovery takes 9-12 months.
Both methods are performed by our experienced surgical team, who determine the most suitable approach based on your age, flexibility, and bone quality. Comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation programs are provided for a successful lengthening process and optimal results.
How much does limb lengthening surgery cost?
We offer two advanced method at the moment:
LON Method: $22,850
Precice 2 Method: $46,000
These prices include;
– Meeting you at the airport upon arrival
– VIP transportation throughout your entire journey
– Accommodation in a 4-star hotel for 2 days before the operation
– An English-speaking caregiver to assist you during your hospital stay
– A complimentary Istanbul tour, including historical and touristic visits, a boat tour, and meals at famous restaurants
– Medical examinations before the surgery
– Use of a specially designed anatomical nail during surgery. (This method facilitates faster bone healing during the recovery process and allows for more comfortable movement.)
– 4 days of hospitalization
– Assistance from a physiotherapist and related medications during your hospitalization
– Provision of a walker, crutches, and wheelchair
– A Limb Lengthening Patient Kit with a 40-page patient guide
– Free consultations with doctors and consultants whenever you need
– All hospital charges related to the operating room and recovery room
– Fees for the hospital, surgeon, anesthesiologist, and surgery assistants
Our dedicated team provides personalized care and support at every step. From your arrival to your complete recovery, we ensure every aspect of your journey is comfortable, safe, and successful.
How long is the recovery process after limb lengthening surgery?
The recovery process after limb lengthening surgery depends on the amount of lengthening, the patient’s overall health, and the method used. The process proceeds as follows:
- First Days After Surgery:
- Patients usually stay in the hospital for 4 days post-surgery. During this period, pain management, wound care, light movements, and assistance with basic needs are provided.
- Lengthening Process:
- The lengthening process starts approximately five days after surgery. The bone is lengthened by an average of 1 mm daily. For instance, achieving an 8 cm lengthening takes about 85 days.
- Bone Healing and Unassisted Walking Phase:
- After the lengthening is complete, a waiting period begins for the bones to heal and strengthen. Unassisted walking generally starts 2-3 months after the lengthening is finished.
- Full Recovery and Return to Daily Life:
- Starting from the fourth month post-surgery, patients gradually return to their daily routines. Over time, they can lift heavier weights, improve their balance, and enhance their mobility.
- Recovery progress is monitored through X-rays and regular doctor evaluations.
- High-impact sports, running, and professional activities require fully healed bones, which typically take 9-12 months.
Throughout the recovery process, regular doctor visits, physical therapy, and patience are critical for a healthy and successful outcome.
Is limb lengthening surgery risky?
Limb lengthening surgery is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon with proper planning. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks and potential complications. Common risks include:
- Infection:
- Poor hygiene in the surgical area can lead to infection.
- Solution: Regular wound care, adherence to hygiene protocols, and antibiotic treatment can manage infections.
- Delayed Bone Healing:
- Factors like poor nutrition, genetics, or smoking can slow or halt bone healing.
- Solution: Bone grafting, PRP, stem cell therapy, or additional surgical interventions may be necessary.
- Nerve and Blood Vessel Damage:
- Rare but possible during surgery.
- Solution: Physical therapy, nerve-healing medications, and surgical repair when needed.
- Muscle and Tendon Tightness:
- Muscles and tendons may take time to adapt to the lengthened bones.
- Solution: Regular physical therapy and stretching exercises can alleviate this.
- Blood Clots (DVT):
- Prolonged immobility can cause blood clots in veins.
- Solution: Blood thinners, compression stockings, and regular exercise can help prevent clots.
- Psychological Stress:
- The long recovery process and immobility may cause anxiety or loss of motivation.
- Solution: Psychotherapy, connecting with other patients, and engaging in motivational activities are recommended.
These risks can be significantly minimized through meticulous surgical procedures, regular follow-ups, and adherence to the doctor’s recommendations.
Is there pain after leg-lengthening surgery?
Post-operative pain during leg-lengthening surgery is manageable and may be experienced in different stages:
- Initial Post-Surgery Days:
- Pain may be intense in the first few days due to the surgical intervention. However, this phase is controlled with strong painkillers prescribed by the doctor.
- Lengthening Process:
- During the period when the bones are lengthened by 1 mm daily, mild to moderate pain may occur due to stretching of the muscles and nerves.
- Regular physical therapy and appropriate medications can minimize this pain.
- Recovery Phase:
- Slight discomfort may occur as the bones heal. As mobility increases, the pain diminishes, and most patients experience significant relief within 4-6 weeks.
- Physical Therapy Process:
- Mild pain may be felt during stretching and strengthening exercises. This is natural as muscles adapt to the lengthened bones.
Pain is generally not a serious concern for patients who follow their doctor’s and physiotherapist’s recommendations. If the pain persists or worsens, it is important to consult your doctor.
How much height increase is achievable after leg-lengthening surgery?
The amount of height gained after leg-lengthening surgery depends on the method used, the patient’s bone structure, age, and overall health. The average increases are as follows:
- Lengthening Capacity:
- Single surgery can achieve 6-9 cm height increase.
- For those seeking greater height, additional surgeries can bring the total increase to 12-16 cm.
- By Method:
- Precice Method: Maximum 8-8.5 cm increase.
- LON Method: Up to 9-10 cm increase.
- For Higher Requests:
- Greater height gain extends the process and requires additional physical therapy. For example, an 8 cm increase takes approximately 85 days, while 10 cm takes about 105 days.
Height gain depends entirely on the patient’s physical characteristics, including muscle and nerve flexibility and bone healing speed, rather than the doctor’s skills or surgical method. Our experienced team supports the process with physical therapy to achieve successful outcomes. Many of our patients have exceeded 8 cm of height increase by following recommendations diligently.
Are there scars after leg-lengthening surgery?
Modern surgical techniques minimize scarring after leg-lengthening surgery. However, the visibility of scars depends on the method used and the individual’s skin type:
- By Method:
- Precice and Precice Max: These methods do not involve external fixators, resulting in very small scars, usually no more than a few centimeters. These scars fade over time.
- LON and Ilizarov: External fixators may leave more noticeable scars at the fixation points.
- Aesthetic Treatments:
- Post-surgery, creams, silicone strips, or laser treatments recommended by your doctor can reduce scar visibility.
- Advantages of Surgical Techniques:
- Modern suturing methods ensure smooth healing of incision sites.
- Proper wound care and dressing speed up scar healing.
Most patients report that the scars do not significantly affect their daily lives. If you have aesthetic concerns, discuss scar management options with your doctor.
Is physical therapy necessary after leg-lengthening surgery?
Yes, physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery and long-term mobility after leg-lengthening surgery. The physical therapy process includes the following stages:
- Initial Post-Surgery Weeks:
- Light exercises are introduced to improve mobility and prevent muscle stiffness through basic stretching and flexibility movements.
- Lengthening Process:
- During the daily bone-lengthening phase, regular stretching, flexibility, and strengthening exercises help muscles and tendons adapt.
- Physiotherapist-supervised exercises prevent stiffness and maintain mobility.
- Bone Healing Phase:
- After lengthening is complete, balance and coordination exercises become the focus.
- Weight-bearing exercises promote the strengthening of bones and muscles.
- Full Recovery Phase:
- Gradual transition to unsupported walking, running, and sports activities. Physical therapy during this period aims to enhance body balance and endurance.
Physical therapy is essential not only for muscle and bone health but also for pain management and regaining freedom of movement post-surgery. Regular adherence to physical therapy significantly improves surgery outcomes and overall quality of life.
Should I undergo the surgery on my lower leg or upper leg? How can I decide?
When deciding between lower leg (tibia) or upper leg (femur) lengthening in height surgery, the choice is entirely up to you. It is important to evaluate this decision from an aesthetic perspective and discuss the potential medical outcomes during your consultation with your doctor.
Advantages of Lower Leg Lengthening:
- Less pain is experienced.
- When the LON method is used, patients can lie on their sides throughout the process.
- Provides more mobility.
Disadvantages of Lower Leg Lengthening:
- Provides less lengthening (average 5–8 cm).
- There is a higher risk of nerve damage due to the dense distribution of nerves.
- Increased risk of “Ballerina Syndrome,” as the Achilles tendon may struggle to elongate.
Advantages of Upper Leg Lengthening:
- Provides greater lengthening (6–10 cm).
- Lower risk of infection.
- The bone heals faster because this area has better blood circulation.
Disadvantages of Upper Leg Lengthening:
- More pain is experienced.
- Provides less mobility.
Both methods can be customized based on your aesthetic and medical expectations. A consultation with your doctor will guide you to the option that best suits your needs and goals.
What are my accommodation options after surgery?
During the process, patients who wish can stay in a hotel under the supervision of our experienced team of healthcare professionals and meet other patients from various countries. Alternatively, they can choose to stay in company-affiliated apartments with more affordable pricing and meet all their medical and daily needs with us.
Some patients opt to stay in apartments or hotels near our center in Istanbul that they arrange themselves. Those who wish and require it can also recover at home while staying in touch with us and being remotely monitored.
We encourage patients to maintain communication with us if they stay elsewhere or return home. WhatsApp groups that we create before the surgery allow us to have controlled follow-ups with the surgeon’s assistant, physiotherapists, nurse, quality control officer, and patient representative.
If you decide to recover at home, please notify us in advance about any external healthcare services you plan to use. For physiotherapy and nursing services in particular, we want to ensure that our team consults with the service provider and confirms that they understand the instructions correctly. Throughout this process, until you return to normal life with your new height, we are here to ensure a careful and controlled recovery.
What are the costs and included services for hotel accommodation after surgery?
What are the costs and included services for apartment accommodation after surgery?
What should I consider when choosing the right height surgery center?
Limb lengthening surgery is a significant surgical procedure requiring expertise and experience. Choosing the right center increases the success rate of the surgery while minimizing risks. Here are the main factors to consider during your decision-making process:
Expertness and Experience:
The surgeon’s experience and expertness are key criteria. Focus on their credentials, the number of surgeries they have performed, and patient satisfaction.
Learn about the techniques the surgeon uses and inquire whether they are skilled in modern methods.
Hospital and Technology:
- Verify whether the hospital where the surgery will be performed has international accreditations (e.g., JCI).
The hospital’s technological infrastructure and the reliability of the equipment used in the surgery are critical.
Transparent Pricing:
- Understand the scope of the center’s prices in detail. Ensure that all services are clearly stated to avoid hidden costs.
Check whether the price includes services such as accommodation, transfers, physiotherapy, and doctor check-ups.
Post-Surgery Support:
- The availability of support services such as physiotherapy, wound care, and regular doctor check-ups impacts the recovery process. Evaluate the extent of these services.
- Additional services like psychological support and counseling can also make the process smoother.
Patient Experiences and References:
- Review feedback from previous patients and, if possible, communicate with them directly to learn about their experiences.
- Social media and the institution’s references can be helpful for this purpose.
Location and Health Tourism Services:
- Find out whether services such as transfers, accommodation, and interpretation are provided for international patients.
- Understand how the center organizes the process to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Hygiene and Safety Standards:
- Pay attention to the center’s hygiene protocols and the sterilization of surgical equipment.
- Ensure that necessary precautions are taken to minimize the risk of infection before and after surgery.
In conclusion, evaluate every step carefully during the center selection process and feel free to ask your questions. The right center will manage not only the surgery but the entire process in the most comfortable and safe way.
Why should I choose you?
As Turkey’s first limb lengthening surgery center, we stand out with our experience and patient-focused approach. Here are the prominent reasons to choose us:
Pioneering and Experience:
- As Turkey’s first height increase surgery center, we have years of experience and the trust of hundreds of patients. With our expertise, we manage every stage of the process carefully and meticulously.
Advanced Technology and Modern Methods:
- We use the most modern and effective methods, such as the LON and Precice techniques, in height surgery. These methods are internationally recognized for their reliability and comfort.
Patient Satisfaction and Empathy:
- We do not only focus on physical treatment but also provide an empathetic approach that understands our patients’ emotions. We offer guidance, support, and motivation throughout the process.
Post-Process Care and Follow-Up:
- We don’t leave you alone after the surgery. Regular doctor visits, physiotherapy programs, and continuous communication that will ensure a healthy recovery process.
High Standards of Service:
- Our surgeries are performed in a world-standard hospital accredited by JCI (Joint Commission International), EFQM, and TURQUALITY. This ensures both your safety and satisfaction.
Up-to-date and Effective Solutions:
- By closely following the latest developments in the medical field, we offer the most effective and innovative solutions.
Cost-Performance Balance:
- By providing effective results in terms of cost-performance, we ensure you receive the highest standards of service while staying within your budget.
Hundreds of Happy Patients:
- The hundreds of successful surgeries we have performed and the patient satisfaction feedback we have received prove the reliability and success of our center.
When you choose us, you don’t only get a surgery but also an experienced team, modern infrastructure, and a personalized treatment plan that will make this challenging process easier. We are here to help you achieve the height of your dreams. Let’s plan this journey together safely!
For more information and to create the best treatment plan for you, contact us. Our professional team is here to answer your questions and support you.
Telephone&WhatsApp: +90 531 988 3090
E-mail: support@wannabetaller.com
Instagram: wannabetaller
