Age Limit for Limb Lengthening Surgery

Limb lengthening surgery offers a chance to increase height or balance limb proportions. Understanding the right age for undergoing this surgery is important for achieving the best results. In this article, we will explore the age limits for this procedure, discussing the minimum and maximum ages that are considered suitable, and identifying the best age for this surgery. Additionally, we'll look into the possibility of natural growth at different ages, how to determine if growth plates have closed, and other key factors.

Minimum Age Limit for Limb Lengthening Surgery

For Children with Medical Needs

This procedure may be suitable for children who have major limb differences due to birth conditions or injuries. This option becomes available from the age of 5. This depends on whether the child's bones are developed enough and whether they can take an active part in their recovery after the surgery. For families seeking more information or considering this option, it is recommended to consult with a Pediatric Orthopedics or a similar division specializing in pediatric limb conditions. These departments can provide detailed guidance and support tailored to your child's unique needs.

For further reading and a deeper understanding, you may find the following resource from the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) helpful: Limb Lengthening in the Pediatric Patient

For Cosmetic Enhancement

The minimum age for height increase surgery is generally considered to be 18 years old, aligning with legal adulthood and the ability to provide informed consent. Medically, it's closely linked to the closure of the Epiphyseal plates, commonly known as growth plates. These plates contribute to bone growth during childhood and typically close around the end of puberty - for girls around 13–15 years and for boys around 15–17 years. Once natural growth stops, this procedure becomes the only option for those who want to get taller.

Maximum Age Limit for Leg Lengthening Surgery

There's no strict upper age limit for this surgery. But, factors like overall health, bone mineral density, and bone quality are important considerations. Undergoing the surgery before turning 50 is advisable since bone density and health tend to decline with age. For those over 50, a bone density test may be necessary to assess bone health. Candidates should be physically fit and free from conditions such as diabetes, orthopedic issues, and heart diseases, which can extend the recovery period and increase the chance of complications.

Best Age for Limb Lengthening Surgery

The ideal age for the surgery is between 20 and 45 years old. In this period, the body is typically at its most robust, and bone remodeling – the process of old bone being replaced by new bone – is actively ongoing. Beyond 40, bone mass begins to decrease gradually, making this procedure less ideal.

Are Your Growth Plates Closed? Here's How to Find Out

Growth plates show up as dark lines at the end of bones in X-ray images. When these plates close and the cartilage turns completely into bone, this dark line vanishes.

This is how you know the growth plates are closed. To check if your growth plates are closed, you can get an X-ray at an orthopedic department.

For detailed information and to assess your eligibility for limb lengthening, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and answer all your questions. Contact us for a free consultation via WhatsApp at +90 533 973 5289 or email us at info@dryukselyurttas.com

FAQs

Can I undergo height surgery after 40 years old?

Yes, you can. However, the best time for this surgery is when you're between 20 and 44. After 40, our bones start to lose their strength, which can make the surgery more challenging. However, most individuals still have enough strength until 50 years old. We recommend you have a detailed check-up of your overall health and the strength of your bones before deciding.

Is there a minimum age limit for leg lengthening surgery?

The minimum age for this surgical procedure is when your growth plates have closed, typically around 18 years old. An X-ray can confirm this, as closed growth plates will no longer show distinct dark lines at the bone ends in the image.

If I'm over 50, what should I do before considering this surgery?

If you're over 50 and considering increasing your height, you need to be assessed very carefully. You may need to check the quality and density of your bones via a DEXA scan (Bone density measurement test). If your bones are healthy, and you're willing to put forth the effort the rehabilitation process requires, you may be eligible for this surgery.