What is Limb Lengthening Surgery? How Is It Done?
Limb Lengthening Surgery is an aesthetic and reconstructive procedure performed from adolescence onward. It helps create proportional legs, correct gait issues, and improve appearance. The process requires patience and time, as it involves controlled bone growth.
What is Limb Lengthening Surgery?
Limb lengthening surgery is a notable technique used to extend the length of limbs, which refers to both the arms and legs. This procedure most commonly involves lengthening the leg bones”specifically, the femur (thigh bone) or tibia (shin bone). It is often considered by individuals who are of very short stature or who have aesthetic concerns about their leg length.
How Is Limb Lengthening Surgery Done?
During Limb Lengthening Surgery, a reconstructive surgeon performs an osteotomy (bone cut) and stabilizes the area with a special frame. Gradual stretching encourages new bone growth, which strengthens over time. Although height can be increased, recovery is lengthy and may include some risks.
Why Is Limb Lengthening Surgery Done?
Limb lengthening surgery is not performed solely for aesthetic reasons. It can also address differences in arm or leg length, as well as disproportions caused by uneven bone growth or certain medical conditions that result in shortened bones. While the procedure can improve appearance, it is also an important treatment option for various health conditions. In addition to cosmetic concerns, the surgery may be recommended in cases such as:
- • Presence of a benign bone tumor on a growth plate,
- In cases of cerebral palsy,
- • In congenital femur (thigh bone) deficiency, where one femur is shorter than the other from birth,
- • In hemihypertrophy, a rare condition where one side of the body grows more than the other,
- • In hereditary conditions such as skeletal dysplasia or dwarfism, which hinder bone growth,
- • In growth plate fractures,
- • In osteomyelitis (bone inflammation) disease.
What Are the Types of Limb Lengthening Surgery?
There are several different methods available for limb lengthening surgery, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some techniques may be more cost-effective, others quicker, while certain methods offer greater safety and clearer outcomes. The main types of limb lengthening surgery used today include:
- Holyfix,
- TSF (Taylor Spatial Frame),
- LON (Lengthening Over Nail),
- Precice 2,
- Precice Stryde,
- Ilizarov method.
The Ilizarov method is often the preferred option for patients seeking limb lengthening for cosmetic reasons, and is applied effectively in these cases.
What is the Ilizarov Method?
The Ilizarov method is a surgical procedure that uses an orthopedic device called an external fixator to reconstruct, reshape, or lengthen bones”typically the long bones of the limbs. In this technique, rods are inserted into the affected bone through small incisions and extend outside the body to connect to a stabilizing external frame. This specialized device is known as the Ilizarov apparatus or Ilizarov fixator.
Limb Lengthening Surgery Process
Limb lengthening surgery can be demanding both financially and in terms of time, making the process physically and emotionally challenging. Closely following your doctor's recommendations throughout the recovery period is essential to achieving the best possible results, especially as healing needs increase and symptoms such as pain may arise.
Before Limb Lengthening Surgery
Before surgery, your specialist may order a bone X-ray and take specific measurements to determine how much your bone can safely be lengthened. While you may want to increase your height by a certain amount, such as 10 cm, the actual gain depends on many individual factors and cannot be guaranteed in advance. Additional necessary medical procedures will be explained to you during your preoperative evaluation. If you take any medications or have a chronic illness, informing your doctor beforehand can help minimize risks and support a smoother recovery.
After Limb Lengthening Surgery
You will not be discharged from the hospital immediately after limb lengthening surgery and may need to stay for a few days. Before going home, your doctor will instruct you on how to care for the limb-lengthening device. If you have an external device, it's important to keep the pins clean to prevent infection. For internal devices, you should carefully maintain the cleanliness of the surgical incisions. Following surgery, you may have to avoid using your leg for a period of time, and your doctor may recommend a supportive device to help during recovery.
Limb Lengthening Surgery Risks and Complications
Like any surgical or invasive procedure, limb lengthening surgery involves certain risks. Some people may experience significant pain during or after the procedure. Other potential complications include:
- Weak bone formation
- Development of fractures or increased susceptibility to fractures
- Infection
- Inappropriate rate of bone growth
- Formation of blood clots
It is important to recognize that there may be uncertainties regarding the safety and long-term effectiveness of limb lengthening surgery.
Limb Lengthening Surgery Costs
The cost of limb lengthening surgery can vary based on the medical center, the surgeon's experience, and the materials used. For specific and up-to-date pricing, contact the medical facility where you plan to have the procedure and request detailed information.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
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Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about limb lengthening surgery. Common concerns include how the procedure works, whether it is possible for someone who is 170 cm tall, and the purpose of platinum used in the surgery. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Who Can Undergo Limb Lengthening Surgery?
Adults who wish to lengthen their limbs and have no health restrictions can undergo limb lengthening surgery, provided there are no medical contraindications identified by their doctor.
What Tests Are Required Before Surgery?
A leg X-ray is usually performed and bone measurements are taken to determine the amount of lengthening required for the surgery.
How Long is the Recovery Period After Surgery?
You can expect to stay in the hospital for about 3 days after surgery, but full recovery may take several months.
How Much Lengthening Can Be Expected After Surgery?
The achievable increase in limb length depends on the underlying reason for the surgery and the person's unique physiology. Results can vary from patient to patient.
Is There an Age Limit for the Surgery?
If surgery is required for medical reasons, it can be performed after the age recommended by your doctor. For cosmetic purposes, the best time is usually after the bone growth plates have closed, which typically happens between the ages of 18 and 20.
What Are the Possible Complications After Surgery?
Possible complications after limb lengthening surgery include vascular and nerve damage, insufficient stiffness of the new bone, inadequate bone growth, or infection at the bone or incision site. If you experience any problems after surgery, be sure to consult your specialist promptly.
What is the Success Rate of the Surgery?
The success of limb lengthening surgery varies with each individual's physiology and expectations. A key factor in achieving the best results is having the procedure done by a skilled surgical team that uses the latest technologies.
When Can I Resume Sports Activities After Limb Lengthening Surgery?
It's important to avoid sports and strenuous physical activity until you have fully recovered from limb lengthening surgery, as starting too soon can be harmful. Always follow your doctor's advice about when to resume sports and consult your physician for guidance specific to your situation.