Unlocking New Heights: Understanding Height Increase Surgery

Exploring the Realm of Limp Lengthening Surgery 

Height Increase Surgery, or Limb Lengthening Surgery, is an extraordinary medical procedure enabling individuals to attain their desired height, fostering newfound confidence and opportunities.

This surgery cuts the leg bone, pulls it apart slowly, and helps new bone grow (called Distraction Osteogenesis). It demands careful planning and supervision by a team of orthopedic specialists. 

Evolution of Height Increase Surgery: A Century-Long Journey 

The history of Height Increase Surgery spans over a century. Dr. Alessandro Codivilla introduced the concept of height increase in the early 1900s, using internal fixation devices.

Dr. Gavriil Ilizarov revolutionized the field in the 1950s with the Ilizarov apparatus, an external fixation device enabling controlled distraction osteogenesis.

Dr. Gerhard Wagner advanced leg lengthening in the 1960s with the callus distraction technique. In 2011, Dr. Baumgart and Dr. Christophersen created a less invasive nail called PRECICE, making patients more comfortable. 

Today, Height Growth Surgery integrates various techniques, performed by specialized orthopedic surgeons, addressing both functional and cosmetic aspects for individuals with height-related concerns. 

Is Cosmetic Limb Surgery Right for You? Considerations for Candidates 

The decision to undergo Height Increase Surgery is highly personal. Potential candidates should consider the following: 

1. Height Dissatisfaction: Individuals unhappy with their height, seeking increased self-esteem and improved quality of life.

2. Physical Health: Candidates should be in good health without underlying conditions posing risks during surgery or recovery. 

3. Psychological Assessment: Many surgeons require psychological assessments to ensure realistic expectations and mental stability. 

4. Age: Surgeons often recommend waiting until growth plates have closed, usually in late adolescence or early adulthood.

5. Commitment: Limb lengthening surgery requires dedication to a lengthy recovery, both physically and psychologically. 

6. Financial Preparedness: Candidates should be financially prepared for substantial costs, covering surgery, follow-ups, and rehabilitation. 

Methods of Height Increase 

1. External Method:

  - LON External Method (Lengthening Over Nail External)

  - LON Monorail (Lengthening Over Nail Monorail) 

2. Internal Method:

  - PRECICE Intramedullary Leg Lengthening Method 

Let's delve into the details of each method: 

1. External Method: 

LON External Method (Lengthening Over Nail External):

In this method, we insert a nail into the bone and attach a device to the leg. The bone is manually distracted apart by trained staff using this device.

Although the lengthening process itself is generally painless, patients may experience tightness and soreness in the surrounding soft tissues immediately after lengthening.

Suitability: This method is well-suited for tibia lengthening. 

LON Monorail (Lengthening Over Nail Monorail):

Explanation: Similar to the LON External Method, this variation involves a single, centrally placed intramedullary nail and a monorail external fixator device.

Position the external fixator on the lateral side of the femur and medial side of the tibia. The distraction process follows a controlled approach for effective lengthening.

Application: Suitable for both tibia and femur lengthening. 

2. Internal Method: 

PRECICE Intramedullary Leg Lengthening Method:

Explanation: This method entails inserting a metal rod or nail into the bone. You affix the rod or nail in place with screws, and you gradually do the lengthening over time.

This method is unique because it utilizes a remote control to precisely extend bones. It achieves this by using a magnetic device located within a nail that inserts into the bone.

Control Mechanism: Patients can remotely control the lengthening process, offering a more convenient and patient-friendly experience.

Advantages: Known for its less invasive nature and improved patient comfort during the distraction osteogenesis process. 

These methods provide options for individuals considering height increase surgery, with each method having its unique characteristics and applications. It's important to talk to your doctor to find the best method for you based on your situation and goals.

Height Increase Strategies: Tailoring the Approach 

The choice of Height Increase Strategy is a collaborative decision involving the individual and Limb Lengthening Doctors. Strategies include Bilateral Tibial Lengthening, Bilateral Femur Lengthening, and Quadrilateral Combined Femur & Tibia Lengthening. 

Recovery from Quadrilateral Surgery: A Patient's Journey 

The recovery duration in quadrilateral height recovery depends on the interval between lengthening procedures and the extent of lengthening. Generally, a minimum four-week interval is recommended between sessions.

Full recovery from quadrilateral limb lengthening extends beyond two years, requiring dedication for the ultimate goal of restoring limb functionality and mobility. 

Understanding the intricacies of Height Increase Surgery allows individuals to make informed decisions on their journey to new heights.