Limb Lengthening Surgery

Limb Lengthening surgery is a surgical procedure preferred for reasons such as congenital short stature, developmental retardation, asymmetrical limbs or aesthetic concerns. This method, known as “distraction osteogenesis” in the medical literature, is based on the controlled lengthening of bones. In recent years, height lengthening surgeries preferred for aesthetic purposes have also increased. However, this process requires patience, discipline and professional follow-up.

How Is Height Limb Lengthening Surgery Performed?

The main purpose of the operation, also known as “bone lengthening method” or “ilizarov technique”, is to increase the height of the person. In lengthening surgery performed under general anesthesia, bone fragments are separated by a controlled incision in the bone area. Then a special device (an “ilizarov” device fixed from the outside or modern intramedullary nails placed inside the body) is placed between the two ends of the bone.

The bones are separated millimetrically every day and the space between them is filled with new bone tissue over time. With this method, an average lengthening of 5-8 cm can be achieved in one session, and in some cases up to 12-15 cm in total.

Surgery Process and Recovery

The postoperative process requires a lot of patience. While the lengthening process takes about 2-3 months, the strengthening and complete healing of the newly formed bones can vary between 6 and 12 months. During this period, it is of great importance for the patient to receive regular physical therapy to maintain muscle strength and joint movements.

The patient usually walks with crutches for the first few weeks, then gradually switches to normal walking. Pain, muscle stiffness and temporary movement limitations are common during the lengthening period, and these conditions should be managed under expert control.

Who Can Have Lengthening Surgery?

Height lengthening surgery is usually:

• Individuals with short stature due to genetic or hormonal reasons
• Individuals with congenital or developmental bone disorders
• Individuals with short legs after traffic accidents or trauma
• Adult individuals who are psychologically uncomfortable with their height

can be applied. However, the physical health, psychological state and motivation of the person are critical for the success of this process.

Risks and Cautions

As with every surgical procedure, there are risks in height lengthening surgery. These risks include:

• Infection
• Complications due to bone nonunion
• Nerve or vessel damage
• Limb instability
• Prolonged pain and muscle stiffness

For this reason, a detailed evaluation should be made before surgery and the process should be started with a specialist orthopedic surgeon.