Limb Lengthening FAQs

How many centimeters can I gain with limb lengthening surgery?

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With a bilateral leg lengthening surgery, you can gain up to 6 cm on the tibia (lower legs) or up to 8 cm on the femur (upper legs). If you want to gain a total of 11-14 cm, you can have a second lengthening surgery on the other bone segment after completing the first lengthening.

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These limits have been accepted as the maximum safe lengthening limits by experienced surgeons worldwide. Attempting to exceed these limits may increase the risks of the procedure and cause permanent health problems.

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During the lengthening phase, your progress is monitored with x-rays and routine doctor checkups. Your surgeon may decide to continue or stop the lengthening depending on your condition.

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What are the eligibility criteria for cosmetic limb lengthening surgery?

 

To have cosmetic limb lengthening surgery, you need to be at least 18 years old and have finished growing. This may be up to 20 years old in some cases. Usually, people up to the age of 50 can have this surgery, but if you are older and healthy, you may still be able to have it.

 

Before undergoing limb lengthening surgery, it is crucial to have a consultation with a medical professional. During this consultation, you should disclose all information about your health condition, including any chronic diseases or medications you are taking. This will help the surgeon determine your eligibility for the procedure and assess any potential risks involved. If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to consult with us.

When can I return to my daily life after limb lengthening surgery?

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Returning to daily life after limb lengthening surgery can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the surgical method employed (such as LON and Precice 2), the specific bone being lengthened (such as the Femur or Tibia), and the patient's overall health and recovery.

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In general, patients can expect to return to their normal activities and work after 4-5 months. They may also be able to walk normally and engage in light sports after 6-9 months. And patients are typically fully recovered and able to participate in all physical activities without any limitations after 9-12 months.

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How much does limb lengthening surgery cost? 

 

Limb lengthening surgery can be a complex and expensive procedure. The cost of the surgery can vary significantly depending on the specific procedure being performed, the surgeon's experience, and the location where the surgery is being performed.

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In general, the cost of limb lengthening surgery can range from tens of thousands of dollars to more than $100,000, depending on the country, surgeon and method used. It is important to discuss the cost of the surgery with your surgeon and to get a detailed estimate of the costs involved before proceeding with the procedure.

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What are the limb lengthening surgery methods you use? Which one is the best?

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When it comes to cosmetic limb lengthening surgery, there are several methods available, each with its own advantages.

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The LON method is a modern technique that utilizes an external fixator, resulting in a faster recovery time compared to traditional methods. It also poses a lower risk of complications and allows patients to walk during the distraction (lengthening) phase. Regular wound care and dressing are required during the lengthening phase.

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The PRECICE method uses an internal nail, made of titanium alloy, to lengthen the bone. This method is less invasive and allows for faster recovery times compared to traditional methods. However, the patient is required to use a wheelchair during the distraction (lengthening) phase as the nail cannot bear the patient's full body weight.

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The Stryde method (production has been stopped and is not available worldwide) also uses an internal nail to lengthen the bone. It is also less invasive and has a faster recovery time compared to traditional methods. Additionally, it allows patients to walk during the distraction (lengthening) phase.

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Does leg lengthening surgery make you look disproportionate?

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It is natural to have concerns about potential changes in body proportions after undergoing limb lengthening surgery. However, if your arms are not abnormally short, the amount of height you gain through the procedure is unlikely to make you look disproportionate.

 

In fact, the goal of limb lengthening surgery is to restore proportion and symmetry to the patient's body, rather than to create an unnatural or disproportionate appearance. Many patients who have undergone limb lengthening surgery have not reported feeling disproportionate as a result of the procedure.

 

It is also worth noting that many people who have considered arm lengthening surgery have found that their leg and arm lengths are already proportional, and have therefore chosen not to undergo the procedure.

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Can you run after leg lengthening surgery?

 

Yes, you can run after leg lengthening surgery. When the growing bone heals, the new bone becomes as strong as any other bone in the body. It does not deteriorate or weaken over time. As a result, you will be able to do all the physical activities you did before the surgery, including running.

Does leg lengthening surgery leave scars?

All limb lengthening surgery methods leave surgical scars on the legs. However, Precice Stryde and Precice 2 leave less scarring, while the LON method leaves slightly more surgical scars.

Dr.Yuksel Yurttas performs operations with the smallest possible scar with 25 years of experience and minimally invasive surgical techniques. In addition, a subcuticular suture (A suture technique that gives the best aesthetic appearance) is offered free of charge to all of our patients.

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Read this article for detailed information about limb lengthening surgery scars.

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How to get limb lengthening surgery?

 

You are where you need to start. First, contact us for a free consultation. Then, according to your demands and budget, our expert consultants will plan all stages from consultation to full recovery with you.

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Read this article to learn more about the consultation, travel planning, and surgery preparation stages of limb lengthening surgery.

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Are there any possible risks, complications, and side effects of limb lengthening surgery?

 

As with any surgery, limb lengthening surgery can cause various risks, complications, and side effects. The surgeon and experienced healthcare team are cautious about these possible risks and inform you in advance. We apply appropriate treatment and resolve the complication in case of any complications. 

Is limb lengthening surgery dangerous?

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Limb lengthening surgery is a complex and risky surgical procedure that requires specialized training and experience to perform safely. While the success rate of this type of surgery can be high when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon in a properly equipped facility, there is still a risk of complications.

 

In addition, the procedure requires a significant amount of time and effort for postoperative care and rehabilitation, and there may be long-term effects on mobility and function. It is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits of limb lengthening surgery before deciding to undergo the procedure and to choose a surgeon who has the training and experience necessary to perform the procedure safely.

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Can I work remotely in the lengthening phase after limb lengthening surgery?

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It is generally not recommended to work remotely during postoperative treatment for limb lengthening surgery, as this type of surgery typically requires a significant amount of rest and physical therapy in order to heal properly. After surgery, you will likely need to spend several weeks or months recovering, and you may need to use crutches or a wheelchair for a period of time. During this time, it may be difficult to perform your job duties, especially if they require a lot of physical activity or movement.

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However, it is possible that you may be able to work remotely on a limited basis if your job duties can be performed from a seated or lying down position, and if you are able to take breaks as needed to rest and allow your body to heal. It is important to discuss your specific situation with your surgeon and the healthcare team to determine what arrangements can be made to allow you to work remotely while you are recovering from surgery.

Where to get limb lengthening surgery?

The USA, Germany, and Turkey are the most popular destinations for limb lengthening surgery. However, limb lengthening procedures are very expensive in the USA and Europe. On the other hand, in Turkey, the same quality of surgical service is offered at much lower prices.

For a safe lengthening experience, it is essential to choose the right surgeon for you. Assoc.Prof.Dr. Yuksel Yurttas offers you safe and affordable limb lengthening surgery and post-operative care services with 25 years of experience. In this article, you can find the best limb lengthening surgeons and costs from all over the world.

Can athletes undergo limb lengthening surgery?

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Yes, athletes can undergo limb lengthening surgery just like any other adult. In fact, the flexibility of the muscles and tissues of athletes may make the lengthening process more straightforward and the recovery process faster.

 

If a patient does not experience any major complications that affect their athletic ability, they should be able to return to their normal physical activities, including sports and weight lifting, after full recovery.

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Is there a recommended age to have lengthening surgery?

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Limb lengthening surgery is generally considered safe for patients between the ages of 18 and 50. However, there are two different conditions that need to be met in order to be eligible for the procedure at different ages.

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For younger patients, the main requirement is that the growth plates in the bones have closed. The growth plates are responsible for natural bone growth during puberty, and once they close, it is no longer possible for a person to grow naturally. As a result, limb lengthening surgery may be the only option for patients whose growth plates have closed.

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For older patients, the main concern is the potential for bones to become weak and brittle. In order to ensure the safety of the procedure, patients over the age of 40-50 may be required to undergo a bone density test and additional examination. This helps to ensure that the bones are strong enough to withstand the stresses of the surgery and the rehabilitation process.

 

Read this article to learn more about the limb lengthening surgery age limit.

How painful is limb lengthening surgery?

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Limb lengthening surgery is a major procedure that involves making precise cuts in the bone, and as with any surgery, there is always a risk of pain and discomfort during the recovery period. The level of pain experienced by patients can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the patient's individual pain tolerance, the specific technique used, and the location and extent of the surgery.

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During the surgery, the patient is placed under local or general anesthesia, so they do not feel any pain. However, once the anesthesia wears off, the patient may experience pain and discomfort in the affected area, especially during the first few days after surgery. The pain can be managed with various pain management techniques such as pain medication and physical therapy.

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Patients can experience different levels of pain during the different phases of treatment. For example, during the distraction phase, when the bones are gradually separated, the patient may experience muscle pain and discomfort as the muscles lengthen to accommodate the growing bone. Physical therapy can be used during this phase to help manage the pain and strengthen the muscles. In general, with proper pain management and follow-up care, the pain associated with limb lengthening surgery can be managed effectively, and patients can achieve the desired results with minimal discomfort.

How long does limb lengthening surgery take?

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The duration of limb lengthening surgery depends on the method used. Limb lengthening surgery with the LON method takes between 2 and 3 hours. Limb lengthening surgery with the Precice 2 method takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.

Will I be able to return to my previous health condition after lengthening surgery? 

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Limb lengthening surgery can be a complex and lengthy process, but with proper care and rehabilitation, you can expect to return to your pre-surgery health condition. The procedure involves several stages, including the initial surgery and post-operative rehabilitation, which may involve exercise and other forms of care.

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Normal walking is usually possible within 4-5 months after surgery, although the weight-bearing nail Precice Stryde may allow for this in a couple of weeks. Bone consolidation, which is the process of bone healing and becoming solid again, occurs after 5-6 months. Full recovery typically takes 9-12 months.

 

It's important to keep in mind that these time frames may vary based on your condition, and the physiotherapy and care you receive after your surgery. 

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Is limb lengthening covered by insurance?

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In general, cosmetic limb lengthening surgery is not covered by insurance because it is considered an elective, or optional, procedure. This means that it is not medically necessary and is done for aesthetic reasons rather than to address a medical issue. Insurance plans typically do not cover elective procedures, including cosmetic surgery.

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If you are considering cosmetic limb lengthening surgery, you will likely need to pay for it out-of-pocket. It is important to discuss the cost of the procedure with the surgeon or their staff to understand the full financial commitment involved. You may also want to speak with your insurance provider to confirm that the procedure is not covered under your plan.

Is there any surgery to make you shorter?

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Yes, there is a surgical procedure called "limb shortening surgery" or "shortening osteotomy" that can be used to make a limb shorter. This procedure involves removing a small section of bone from the limb and then realigning the remaining pieces of bone to create a shorter limb.

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Limb shortening surgery is typically performed to correct a congenital (present at birth) or acquired condition that results in a limb that is longer than the other limb. This can cause an imbalance in the body and result in problems with mobility, gait, and overall function. Shortening surgery is only recommended if other treatment options, such as physical therapy and medication, have not been successful in correcting the imbalance.

 

If you are considering limb shortening surgery for psychological or cosmetic reasons, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your surgeon to determine if it is the right option for you.

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What are the other surgeries performed by Prof.Dr.Yuksel Yurttas?

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Dr.Yuksel Yurttas specializes in limb lengthening and deformity correction procedures and successfully performs the following surgeries:

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• Arm lengthening surgery

• Limb shortening surgery

• Limb deformity correction

• Bowlegs / Knock knees correction

• Leg length discrepancies