LEG LENGTHENING OPTIONS
Gain up to 8-10 cm with one procedure, or up to 14-17 with two procedures, through advanced methods, expert care, and all inclusive programs.
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How Leg Lengthening Works
Limb lengthening surgery is a controlled orthopedic procedure that uses the body’s natural ability to form new bone. After a precise bone cut, called an osteotomy, the bone is gradually lengthened with an internal or external fixation system. As the bone separates slowly, new bone forms in the gap while the surrounding muscles, nerves, joints, and soft tissues adapt under close medical supervision.
With Prof. Dr. Yüksel Yurttaş, the process is planned according to your anatomy, height goal, bone segment, chosen method, and recovery capacity. Treatment may be performed with the LON method, Fitbone, or Precice 2, with regular imaging, physiotherapy, wound care when needed, and follow up throughout the lengthening and bone healing phases.
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01. Initial Consultation
Your process begins with a detailed medical consultation. Your height, weight, age, medical history, previous surgeries, proportions, expectations, and desired height gain are reviewed. Prof. Dr. Yurttaş evaluates whether limb lengthening is medically appropriate and which method may be safer for your goal.
04. Lengthening & Physical Therapy
Lengthening phase typically begins about five days after surgery at a controlled rate of 1 mm per day. This means 6 cm takes about 60 days, 8 cm takes about 80 days. The rate may be adjusted based on bone formation, muscle flexibility, nerve response, pain level, and X ray findings. Physical therapy is a central part of this phase, helping maintain joint movement, flexibility, and soft tissue adaptation. Follow up includes clinical reviews, X rays, nurse support, pain management, and pin site care for LON patients.
02. Pre-op Tests and Planning
Before surgery, you undergo medical examinations, orthopedic X rays, blood tests, anesthesia evaluation, and physical assessment. The treatment plan is finalized based on your bone structure, segment choice, soft tissue condition, and the amount of lengthening planned. This stage is also used to prepare you for the surgery, hospital stay, mobility needs, and rehabilitation period.
05. Bone Healing & Recovery
Once the planned length is reached, the newly formed bone enters the consolidation phase. The regenerate bone gradually hardens and becomes strong enough for increased weight bearing. Walking, daily activity, work, and exercise are advanced step by step according to healing speed and follow up results. In bilateral lengthening, meaning both femurs or both tibias, walking without assistance is generally expected around 4 to 5 months, while full recovery usually takes 9 to 12 months. If both femur and tibia are lengthened in a two segment plan, recovery takes longer and may add another 6 to 12 months.
03. Surgery and Hospitalization
The surgery is performed under Prof. Dr. Yurttaş at Esencan International Hospital in Istanbul. During the procedure, the bone is carefully cut and stabilized with the selected lengthening system. Depending on the method, this may involve LON, Fitbone, or Precice 2. The typical hospital stay is 5 days, with close monitoring, pain control, early movement, and assisted first steps when medically appropriate.
06. Internal Nail Removal
Internal nail removal is usually considered after full bone consolidation, most commonly after 12 to 18 months or later. The timing is decided individually based on X ray findings, bone healing, and clinical evaluation. Since these implants are made from biocompatible materials, they do not always need to be removed immediately and may remain in place for years if they are not causing any issues.
X-ray images showing the bone regeneration and consolidation phases during limb lengthening. The first X-ray series shows the gradual formation of new bone tissue, while the second highlights the fully consolidated bone.
Which Lengthening Method Is Right for You?
Choosing the right leg lengthening method depends on your height goals, lifestyle, and recovery preferences. Prof. Dr. Yuksel Yurttas offers three advanced techniques to meet different patient needs.
LON Method: The LON method uses both external and internal fixation to achieve height increases of up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) in the tibia and 10 cm (4 inches) in the femur. After surgery, patients can walk with some limitations, supported by regular physiotherapy and specific exercises to maintain flexibility and strength. Most patients start walking without assistance within 4–5 months. By 6 months, most daily activities can be resumed, allowing patients to return to a more active lifestyle. Full recovery, including bone healing and the restoration of normal mobility, typically takes 9–12 months. This method also involves routine care for pin sites and wounds throughout the lengthening phase.
Precice 2: The Precice 2 system is a fully internal limb lengthening method using a motorized titanium nail. It allows up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) in the tibia and 8 cm (3.14 inches) in the femur. Weight-bearing is restricted during the distraction phase, and some patients may need a wheelchair. Walking resumes in 3 to 4 months, with full recovery in 9 to 12 months.
Fitbone: Fitbone is a fully internal limb lengthening system that uses an electromagnetic control unit to gradually extend the bone without any external fixators. It is German-engineered and made from high-grade surgical stainless steel, ensuring durability and precision. The system enables controlled distraction, typically allowing up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) in the tibia and 8 cm (3.1 inches) in the femur, depending on the case. Patients often experience greater comfort during recovery, especially in terms of mobility and hygiene.
Not sure which method suits your goals and lifestyle? Start by visiting each method’s page or message us directly. We’ll help you make a confident, informed choice.
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