How Much Height Can You Gain Safely with Limb Lengthening Surgery?

You may have seen stories about people gaining 4 inches (10 cm), 6 inches (15 cm), or even 7 inches (18 cm) with limb lengthening. But is this possible for everyone? Limb lengthening surgery provides an option to increase height, but how much can you safely gain? This guide explains the procedure, limits for height increase, and factors affecting outcomes. Learn the facts about limb lengthening and what to expect from this surgery.

See real-life results of limb lengthening surgery. It's possible to gain up to 8-10 cm on femurs or 5-7 cm on tibias with one procedure, and up to 15-17 cm in total with a two-step process.

How Does Limb Lengthening Surgery Work?

Limb lengthening surgery allows you to grow taller by using the body's ability to form new bone. The surgeon cuts the bone to be lengthened and uses either external or internal devices to gradually stretch it. The procedure has two main phases: distraction (lengthening) and consolidation (hardening).

• Distraction Phase: The distraction phase involves slowly lengthening the bone by 1 mm daily. During this phase, the bone is pulled apart to encourage new growth. Typically, this phase results in 2.4 inches (6 cm) of lengthening in 60 days or 3.2 inches (8 cm) in 80 days.

• Consolidation Phase: The consolidation phase is when the new bone hardens and heals. During this time, you gradually put weight on your legs and return to regular activities. Once healed, you can resume all physical activities, including sports.

Factors Determining the Lengthening Amount

Several factors determine how much lengthening you can achieve:

• Personal Height Goal: Set a realistic height goal before surgery. For instance, if you are 5'3" (160 cm), you might aim for 5'6" (168 cm) with one surgery or 5'9" (175 cm) with two surgeries. Gaining more than 6 inches (15 cm) may be unrealistic for many patients.

• Bone Proportions: The lengthening amount depends on the ratio between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) and the flexibility of the muscles. Generally, the femur can be lengthened by 3-3.5 inches (7-9 cm) and the tibia by 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm), but this varies based on the method used and individual factors.

• Physical Condition and Flexibility: Your doctor will assess your condition and flexibility before surgery. If your muscles are not flexible enough, you may not achieve maximum lengthening or may not be a good candidate for the procedure.

• Recovery and Adaptation: Regular physical therapy is crucial during lengthening. Following medical guidance, staying disciplined, and being patient are key to successful outcomes.

X-ray images showing the distraction phase of limb lengthening surgery and the gradual bone lengthening process.

Lengthening Methods and Maximum Achievable Lengthening Amounts

The advanced methods used for cosmetic limb lengthening are:

LON Method:

• Femur: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)

• Tibia: Up to 2.8 inches (7 cm)

• Daily Lengthening Rate: 0.04 inches (1 mm), done in four steps (0.01 inches or 0.25 mm each time)

Precice 2:

• Femur: Up to 3.2 inches (8 cm)

• Tibia: Up to 2.8 inches (7 cm)

• Daily Lengthening Rate: 0.04 inches (1 mm), done in three steps (0.013 inches or 0.33 mm each time)

Dr Yurttas examining a patient's flexibility after gaining 8 cm with limb lengthening surgery.

When performed by an experienced team, limb lengthening surgery is a safe option for gaining height. It requires commitment and discipline. Set realistic goals, work with a professional team, and follow recovery guidance to achieve the best results.

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