Question 1

How does leg lengthening surgery work?

Accepted Answer

Leg lengthening surgery enhances stature by using the body’s natural ability to grow new bone tissue. It starts with an osteotomy, where the bone is cut, followed by gradual lengthening using internal or external devices while the surrounding tissues adapt.

The process involves two phases: distraction, where the bone lengthens at 1 mm per day to promote new growth, and consolidation, where the bone strengthens and mobility returns. Once fully recovered, patients can resume normal activities, including sports.

Question 2

How much taller can I get with limb lengthening surgery?

Accepted Answer

The height increase achievable through leg lengthening surgery depends on the chosen method, the targeted bone segment, the effort you put in physiotherapy and post-op exercises, and your body's adaptation capacity. Using the LON method, patients typically gain up to 10 cm (4 inches) in the femur or up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) in the tibia. If you aim for the maximum possible height gain, you can gain up to 17 cm (6.7 inches) with separate surgeries for both the femurs and tibias. The bone growth occurs at a rate of 1 mm per day. Typically, it takes about two months to achieve 5–7 cm (2–2.8 inches) and three months for 8–10 cm (3.1–4 inches).

Question 3

Is limb lengthening surgery safe?

Accepted Answer

Limb lengthening surgery is considered safe when performed by an experienced surgeon using advanced methods in a well-equipped medical center. Most patients recover successfully with proper follow-up care and physiotherapy, achieving their desired height increase without significant issues.

Question 4

Is limb lengthening surgery painful?

Accepted Answer

Yes, limb lengthening surgery can be quite painful, especially during the first few days. Pain intensity varies based on individual tolerance and the method used. The most severe pain is usually felt in the first 1–2 days after surgery, once the anesthesia wears off. During this period, we manage pain with strong painkillers and patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). By the 3rd or 4th day, the pain generally becomes more manageable, allowing patients to switch to oral painkillers. During the lengthening phase, patients may also feel muscle tightness as the soft tissues adapt to bone growth. Physical therapy helps reduce this discomfort and strengthens muscles. With proper pain management, most patients find the pain from leg lengthening surgery to be bearable over time.

Question 5

Is there an age limit for leg lengthening surgery?

Accepted Answer

Leg lengthening surgery age limit is typically between 18 and 55 years. Candidates under 18 must wait until their growth plates have fully closed, which usually happens after puberty. For those over 50, a bone density test may be required to determine if the procedure is both safe and effective.

Question 6

Does limb lengthening surgery make you look disproportionate?

Accepted Answer

Leg lengthening surgery focuses on increasing height without creating an unnatural appearance. Since every body is unique, perfect proportions are subjective, and there’s no universal standard. In most cases, the height gained appears subtle in daily life and doesn’t draw attention to changes in body symmetry. Patients often prioritize the confidence and opportunities that come with added height over strict adherence to their original proportions. Your surgeon will work with you to achieve a result that feels balanced and natural for your individual frame.

Question 7

Can I walk normally again after limb lengthening surgery?

Accepted Answer

You will be able to walk again after leg lengthening surgery. Most patients take their first steps 2–3 days after surgery, with the help of crutches or a walker. Throughout the process, you will be able to walk but with some limitations. After about 4–5 months, most patients can walk without assistance. By the 6th month, as the bone strengthens and your body adjusts, you will gradually put more weight on your legs and return to normal walking.

Question 8

How long is the recovery period after leg lengthening surgery?

Accepted Answer

Recovery time varies based on the surgical method, the bone being lengthened, and individual healing factors. Patients typically stay in the hospital for 5 to 7 days following the procedure. During the lengthening phase, which lasts 2 to 3 months, the bone grows gradually at a rate of 1 mm per day. Once the desired length is achieved, the consolidation phase begins, where the new bone hardens and strengthens over 6 to 9 months. Most patients regain independent walking within 4 to 5 months and resume full physical activities, including sports, within 9 to 12 months. For patients lengthening both the femur and tibia, the overall recovery period may extend by an additional 3 to 6 months.

Question 9

What is the success rate of limb lengthening surgery?

Accepted Answer

The success rate of limb lengthening surgery typically ranges between 95% and 98%, depending on several key factors. These include the expertise of the surgical team, the quality of postoperative care, and the patient’s dedication to rehabilitation. Dr. Yüksel Yurttas, one of the leading surgeons in limb lengthening, has performed over 800 surgeries, achieving a success rate of more than 98%, with major complications in fewer than 2% of cases.

Question 10

Why do surgery costs vary between limb lengthening methods?

Accepted Answer

The cost of limb lengthening surgery depends on the method and technology used. The LON method, which combines internal and external fixation, is generally more affordable but involves extensive post-operative care to minimize infection risks. The Precice 2 method, on the other hand, uses an internal magnetic nail that eliminates external fixation, lowering infection risks but increasing overall costs due to its advanced technology.

Question 11

Does leg lengthening surgery leave scars?

Accepted Answer

All surgical procedures leave scars, and limb lengthening surgery is no exception. The visibility and size of scars can vary depending on the technique used. Dr. Yüksel Yurttas performs the procedure using minimally invasive methods that help reduce scarring. Additionally, patients can consider treatments like laser therapy to further improve the appearance of scars from leg lengthening once they have healed.

Question 12

Is limb lengthening surgery covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Limb lengthening surgery is generally not covered by insurance, as it is a cosmetic procedure. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. You can explore limb lengthening surgeons and their costs to find the best fit for your needs.

Question 13

Can I lengthen both femur and tibia at the same time? (Quadrilateral Limb Lengthening)

Accepted Answer

Quadrilateral limb lengthening, or lengthening both the femur and tibia simultaneously, is not recommended due to the significantly higher risk of complications.  Patients often experience intense pain, higher chances of joint contractures, nerve damage, and extended recovery challenges. A safer and more effective approach is to perform the surgeries in stages, with a gap of 3–4 weeks. This allows your body to heal better between procedures while reducing complications, making the process more manageable and less physically overwhelming.

Question 14

Can overweight patients undergo limb lengthening surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, patients with a BMI over 30 can undergo leg lengthening surgery to increase their height, but they may need additional evaluation. The LON method is generally preferred for overweight patients since it allows full weight-bearing during the process. The Precice 2 method has weight-bearing limitations, which might require extra support or strategies. Patients often lose weight during the lengthening process, which can positively impact overall health and recovery.

Question 15

How long do nails stay in the body after limb lengthening surgery?

Accepted Answer

In the LON method, external fixators are removed after the lengthening phase, while the internal nails can be removed after 12 months or kept longer if needed. For the Precice 2 method, internal nails are also biocompatible and may stay in the body long-term, or be removed after 12 months, depending on the patient’s choice.

Question 16

What support is provided for international patients traveling to Turkey for surgery?

Accepted Answer

From the day you contact us to your arrival for limb lengthening surgery in Turkey, you receive full support, including travel arrangements, airport transfers, accommodation, and on-site rehabilitation at our rehab center located within the hotel. Upon arrival, you have 24/7 rehab access, daily physiotherapy, and weekly consultations with Dr. Yüksel Yurttas for a seamless experience. For more details, visit our Services Page and explore our all-inclusive packages.

Question 17

What accommodations are available for international patients?

Accepted Answer

You have two accommodation options as part of our services: MyHouse N5 Suites, with direct rehab center access and 24/7 availability, or the DoubleTree by Hilton, which includes in-room physiotherapy. Both options provide comfort, privacy, and access to fitness facilities, pools, and modern amenities for effective recovery. If you'd like, you can also opt for an Airbnb and receive post-op care seperately designed to your needs.

Question 18

How can I stay connected with my family during my treatment in Turkey?

Accepted Answer

Our accommodations provide high-speed internet for video calls and communication. Both MyHouse N5 Suites and DoubleTree by Hilton offer free Wi-Fi in all rooms, so you can stay in touch with loved ones throughout your recovery. At MyHouse N5 Suites, your family member can stay with you free of charge if they share your room, or you can opt for 1+1 suite to stay with your family.

Limb Lengthening Surgery FAQs