The Early Days: A Guide to the First 10 Days of Limb Lengthening Surgery and Recovery
Are you ready to take control of your height and boost your confidence? Limb lengthening surgery can make your dream of being taller a reality. Our team of experts will guide you through the entire process, from research and planning to recovery. We understand this is a big decision and we're here to answer any questions and alleviate any concerns you may have. Let's take the first step towards a taller, more confident you.
It's important to note that limb lengthening is a major orthopedic procedure and, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks and complications. However, we understand your concerns and we will explain everything to you in detail to ensure that you are fully informed. Our team will guide you from the first day of the surgery to the last day of your recovery, and we will closely monitor your progress until you are fully recovered.
Here is a breakdown of the first 10 days of limb lengthening surgery and the postoperative treatment and recovery process:
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul and rest at the hotel
We will pick you up from the airport with a VIP vehicle and take you to the hotel.
Day 2: Meeting with the Doctor, examination, and preoperative tests
You will meet with the doctor at the hospital, finalize the details of the bone segment (femur lengthening or tibia lengthening) and discuss your expectations, undergo pre-operative tests (ortho x-ray, x-ray, blood test, etc.), have your height measured, and undergo a physical examination.
Day 3: Surgery day
You will be taken to the hospital with your caretaker and a staff member from our healthcare team. You will be prepared for surgery by the medical team at the hospital. Eating and drinking must be stopped 10 hours before the surgery. Limb lengthening surgery takes about 2 to 3 hours with the LON method and 1.5 to 2 hours with the Precice 2 method. After the surgery, you'll be taken to a single private hospital room.
Day 4: Post-surgery care in the hospital room
The day after the surgery, you will start to feel pain as the effect of the anesthesia wears off. On this day, the necessary medication and treatment protocol is applied according to the severity of your pain. You are visited by the doctor and medical team and you spend your day resting. In addition, all your needs are met by your caretaker and nurses 24/7.
Day 5: Getting back on your feet
Your pain is expected to decrease and be more manageable on this day. After the doctor's permission, you'll take your first steps after your surgery with the assistance of nurses and the support of a walker. Additionally, you'll be instructed to do bed exercises as part of your recovery process.
Day 6: Rehabilitation in the hospital
On this day, you will rest in your room, do bed exercises and take short walks.
Day 7: Rehabilitation in the hospital
On this day, you will feel better, take short walks, and do bed exercises while you rest in your room.
Day 8: First lengthening
The first lengthening begins five days after surgery. Our healthcare team will teach you how to do the daily lengthening procedure and will monitor your progress weekly with x-rays.
Day 9: Discharge from hospital
After the completion of the hospitalization, you will be discharged from the hospital to your hotel by a private ambulance. Our healthcare team at the hotel will place you in your room and bring your medicines and train you on how often to use them. Your first physiotherapy will be performed in your room by our physiotherapists at the hotel.
Day 10: Beginning of physiotherapy and exercise program
On Day 10, we kickstart your physiotherapy and exercise program, tailored to your specific needs and designed by our specialist physiotherapist. Your progress will be closely monitored by our team of experts, and you are expected to attend physiotherapy sessions at a scheduled time every weekday, following the instructions provided to you. For patients who are returning home after the surgery, we don't leave you alone, we provide you with customized exercise programs and education on aftercare. And in case you need it, we also offer online physiotherapy sessions to ensure a smooth recovery.
60-80 Day: Distraction Phase (Lengthening and Physiotherapy)
The daily lengthening amount is 1 mm in most cases. You'll continue the lengthening process for 60 days for 6 cm and 80 days for 8 cm of lengthening. During this phase, your muscles and soft tissues surrounding the bone are also lengthened with physiotherapy and exercise.
Day 70-90: External fixator removal (LON Method)
In the limb lengthening procedure with the LON method, the external fixators are removed with a minor operation after the completion of the lengthening phase. Patients can start walking with assistance the day after the procedure. (External fixator removal is free of charge for our patients)
Day 70-150: Bone Consolidation and Transition to Normal Walking
After the distraction phase is completed and the external fixators are removed, the bone consolidation process begins. You will begin to walk without support day by day and your gait will return to normal over time. Physical therapy may be prescribed to help improve your strength and range of motion during this time.
Day 150-365: Bone Consolidation and Full Recovery
The bone consolidation phase takes about 3-5 months after completion of the distraction (lengthening) phase. During this time, it is important to maintain a diet rich in vitamins, protein, and calcium to promote bone healing. You should also engage in regular exercise and avoid activities that put excessive stress on your legs. As your bones continue to heal, you will be able to return to normal activities such as work and daily tasks. Finally, after the bones are fully consolidated, the internal nails placed in the bone marrow can be removed with minor surgery.
Ultimately, leg lengthening surgery requires patience and a commitment to following post-operative instructions. The bone consolidation and recovery process can take several months and may vary for each individual. Remember to maintain a healthy diet, engage in regular exercise, and avoid activities that put excessive stress on your legs.
If you have any questions or need further information about leg lengthening surgery, please don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We are here to support you every step of the way.
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E-mail: info@dryukselyurttas.com