Live
Support AI
Who Cannot Have Limb Lengthening Surgery?
.jpg.webp)
Limb lengthening surgery offer a life-changing experience for many people, but this surgery is not suitable for everyone. The question of "Who cannot have limb lengthening surgery?" is crucial for those considering this procedure, and the answer depends on various factors such as an individual's health, age, physical conditions, and psychological readiness. Individuals considering this surgery should carefully evaluate all aspects of the process and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the suitability of the surgery. This comprehensive assessment is of great importance in identifying when height lengthening surgery may be risky or inappropriate. In this article, we will examine in detail the individuals who are not suitable candidates for height lengthening surgery and the reasons behind this decision.
Can Anyone Have Limb Lengthening Surgery?
Limb lengthening surgery, often referred to as "lengthening osteotomy," is a procedure that may not be suitable for everyone. This surgery is typically performed on individuals who experience significant psychological or physical issues due to their short stature. The feasibility and success of the surgery depend on various factors, including the individual's health, bone structure, age, and overall physical condition.
If you are considering height lengthening surgery, the first step you should take is to consult with an orthopedic and traumatology specialist. The specialist will evaluate your medical history and current health status to determine the most suitable treatment approach for you. It's also essential to consider the risks, complications, and recovery process associated with this surgery.
Keep in mind that such a surgery is a significant decision and may involve an extended recovery period. Therefore, thorough research and seeking multiple medical opinions are important steps before making a decision.
Who is Not Suitable for Limb Lengthening Surgery?
Height lengthening surgery is a serious surgical procedure that requires a thorough health examination beforehand. At this stage, the patient's chronic conditions, bone health, blood values, and X-ray images are evaluated, and based on the doctor's examination, a decision is made regarding whether the individual is suitable for the surgery. In addition to these factors, there are also some elements that can prevent someone from undergoing limb lengthening surgery. These can be listed as follows:
- Bone disorders: Some genetic diseases that affect bone health can make height lengthening surgery unsuitable for individuals. These conditions include Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Brittle Bone Disease), Marfan Syndrome, Achondroplasia, and bone marrow disorders. Individuals with these conditions have fragile bones, and undergoing surgery is often not feasible. If you have one of these conditions and are considering surgery, it is advisable to consult with a specialized and experienced doctor for the best course of action.
- Immune system disorders: Immune system problems can pose significant risks during and after height lengthening surgery. For example, a weakened immune system can increase the risk of post-operative infections, and the use of immunosuppressive drugs for autoimmune diseases can hinder bone healing. Therefore, individuals with immune system disorders undergo thorough examinations by doctors, and surgery is only performed if deemed suitable by the medical professional.
- Smoking – Alcohol – Drug addiction: Smoking, alcohol, and drug addiction can negatively impact the success and safety of limb lengthening surgery. Smoking slows down wound and bone healing, while alcohol weakens the immune system and increases the risk of infections. Drug addiction can complicate anesthesia and pain management. These addictions create additional health risks during and after surgery, so it is essential to reduce or quit these habits before undergoing the procedure. Guidance from healthcare professionals plays a critical role in this process.
- Excessive weight: Obesity can be an obstacle to limb lengthening surgery as it increases the risk of complications, complicates anesthesia management, and hinders wound and bone healing. The extra weight carried by obese individuals can also negatively affect the post-operative recovery process. Therefore, it is recommended for obese individuals to lose weight and improve their overall health before considering surgery. In any case, a detailed evaluation by healthcare professionals is crucial before contemplating any surgical procedure.
- Chronic illnesses: When it comes to chronic health conditions, some risky situations may be associated with surgery, and the decision of whether surgery is appropriate is made by a doctor. You can find information about chronic illnesses and their associated risks in the table below:
| Chronic Condition | Risks in Relation to Surgery |
| Cardiovascular Diseases | People with heart diseases may face an increased risk of complications during and after surgery. Anesthesia and surgical stress can place extra strain on the heart. |
| Diabetes | Patients with diabetes may experience delayed wound healing and an increased risk of infection. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels can be more challenging during and after surgery. |
| Osteoporosis | A reduction in bone density can lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures during and after surgery. |
| Rheumatoid Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Joint Diseases | These conditions can weaken joints and connective tissues, making surgical intervention more challenging and potentially extending the recovery period. |
| Chronic Kidney Disease | Impaired kidney function can hinder the elimination of anesthesia and other drugs from the body, potentially leading to various complications during and after surgery. |
| Bleeding Disorders | Bleeding disorders like hemophilia carry an increased risk of bleeding during and after surgery. |
| Immune System Disorders | Individuals with autoimmune diseases or those using immunosuppressive drugs may be more susceptible to infections. |
| Neurological Disorders | Some neurological conditions can present additional challenges during surgery and the recovery period. |
The severity and condition of all the mentioned illnesses above can vary from person to person. Therefore, even though these conditions are likely to be obstacles to surgery, it is very important to consult with your doctor for the most accurate information.
If you are considering limb lengthening surgery, the first thing you should do is consult with a specialist doctor to obtain information. If you have an existing medical condition, a doctor's examination at this point is crucial. You can watch the patient interview video below to get detailed information about the surgery process, or you can follow our YouTube page and contact our patient representatives for any other questions you may have.
You will be informed about the lengthening increase, lengthening process, the prices of the surgical methods, the difference of the methods, the risks of the surgery.
