Limb Lengthening Insights: Surgical Transformation

Limb Lengthening Surgery

By Ceren Engez • Medical review by Serkan Gurcan, MD

Transformative Limb Lengthening Surgery

The demand for aesthetic limb lengthening procedures, also known as lengthening, is increasing especially among young men.

Thanks to technological advances, changing attitudes towards cosmetic procedures, and the growing entrepreneurial spirit of orthopedic surgeons, clinics around the world are competing for patients. So, what do we know about this growing sector?

Read on as we address common questions and concerns, provide data on the costs of leg lengthening surgeries around the world, and explore the potential of height-lengthening after the age of 21.

What is Limb Lengthening Surgery?

limb lengthening surgeryLimb lengthening surgery is a method to extend the limbs, gradually stretching bones and tissues to encourage new bone formation.Technological progress has refined this technique.

Limb lengthening or distraction osteogenesis, the surgery is applied above all in people with pathological short stature, bone deformities, length differences between extremities (legs, arms and others), and also with bone loss as a result of infections, tumors or trauma.

The surgery also resulted in a cosmetic increase in height as the bones reached their maximum capacity. As a result of the psychological effects observed especially in adolescence and young adulthood, the average age at surgery is between 18 and 25.

The process is lengthy, spanning several months.Travelling to the United States or the United Kingdom for medical treatment might be pricey. Many people prefer limb lengthening surgery in Turkey to save 40-50% on expenditures.

Height Comparison and Limb Lengthening Surgery

Height comparison plays an important role in an individual's social interactions and psychology. According to a study, taller individuals often report higher levels of self-esteem and social acceptance.

The perception of being taller can lead to improved life satisfaction, influencing individuals to consider height increase surgeries.

Who is a Candidate for Leg Lengthening Surgery?

Candidates for leg lengthening surgery should be fully informed, highly motivated, psychologically and financially prepared.

According to experts, the average profile consists of men between the ages of 25 and 45 who are less than 170 cm tall and believe that this negatively affects their work, sports or relationships.

Is There Surgery to Make You Taller?

after limb lengtheningLimb lengthening surgeries involve gradually extending bones through distraction osteogenesis. In Turkey, this can extend the tibia by up to 6 cm and the femur by up to 8 cm.

A second surgery can add 5-8 cm more. Muscle and tissue flexibility is crucial for achieving height goals, making post-surgery physical therapy important.
 
Bilateral femoral lengthening using a magnetic internal lengthening device. At the end of treatment (3-4 months), the patient gained 3.15 inches (8 cm) in height. 

What is the Limb Lengthening Cost in Turkey?

The cost varies worldwide, influenced by location, technology, and surgeon expertise. For comparable services, Turkey offers these surgeries at 90% lower costs than elsewhere. Prices range from $30,000 to $150,000 globally, while in Turkey, they're between $15,000 to $25,000 USD.

What is the General Success Rate of Lengthening Surgery?

The success rate varies between 90-95%. Possible risks after limb lengthening include acute nerve injury, acute vascular injury, delayed union or nonunion requiring bone graft, etc. may take place. These are temporary side effects that will disappear in a short time.

What is the Process Like After the Surgery?

Post-surgery process is divided into many stages. The surgery and hospitalization phase normally lasts 5 to 7 days. Prolongation phase lasts 2 to 3 months, while the consolidation phase takes 1 to 3 months.

Full healing could take 9 to 12 months. Patients can walk properly 4-5 months after surgery and undertake physical activities well after 6 months.

 

In conclusion, limb lengthening surgery offers a potential solution for individuals seeking to increase their height.

By understanding the surgery process, potential height increases, associated costs, and considering options such as those available in Turkey, individuals can make informed decisions about pursuing limb lengthening surgery.

Remember to consult with qualified medical professionals to explore all possibilities and determine the right course of action for your unique situation.

FAQ

1. What should I avoid before surgery?

- Avoid drinking and smoking for at least one month before the surgery.
- Do not smoke.
- Avoid taking any medications, herbal remedies, or blood-thinning medications such as aspirin.
- Maintain a fit and active lifestyle to increase your chances of recovery after surgery.

2. What are the risks of lengthening surgery?

Surgical leg lengthening has risks, including significant complications such as poor union between bones, infection, and bleeding, which are common with any minor surgery. It is therefore important that the decision to undergo this procedure is individualized and made reasonably.

3. Why should I have leg lengthening surgery in Turkey?

Healthcare in Turkey offers high-quality, low-cost treatments with easy access, including limb lengthening surgery. Various operations are 50% to 70% cheaper than in the EU and America.

4. Will there be scars on the leg after surgery?

The scars on your leg will depend on the method of surgery. While the most scars are formed in the Ilizarov method, the least scars are formed in the Precice method. As a matter of fact, these scars can be reduced to an unnoticeable level with aesthetic methods.


Written on 18/01/2024

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Last Update: 18/01/2024

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