Limb Lengthening Surgery: Extend Your Quality of Life
Leg lengthening surgery is not just a physical transformation; it is also a significant health procedure that enhances an individual’s quality of life and self-confidence. It is a permanent and scientific solution for congenital or acquired leg length discrepancies.
Acıbadem Healthcare Group stands out in this field, both in Türkiye and worldwide, thanks to its state-of-the-art technological infrastructure, multidisciplinary approach, and an experienced team of specialists in limb lengthening surgery.
What Is Limb Lengthening Surgery and Who Is Suitable for It?
Leg lengthening is a surgical process that aims to extend not only the bones but also the surrounding muscles, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels in a coordinated manner. This surgery is generally suitable for individuals with leg length differences resulting from congenital conditions, childhood infections, traumas, or certain diseases. Additionally, patients diagnosed with dwarfism who are unlikely to exceed one meter in height as adults are also candidates for limb lengthening surgery. In recent years, cosmetic limb lengthening surgeries have also been performed for individuals who wish to increase their height for personal preference or aesthetic concerns.
Limb Lengthening Surgery at Acıbadem: Safe, Comfortable, and Personalized
At Acıbadem Healthcare Group, limb lengthening surgeries are performed using advanced technologies and minimally invasive techniques.
- Ilizarov Device: A ring-shaped system that is externally fixed to the bones. It has a high extension capacity but is less preferred due to its impact on patient comfort.
- Combined Method: Consists of internal pins combined with external short-term fixators. The patient’s mobility is preserved, and the recovery process is more comfortable.
- Magnetic Lengthening Nails (such as the PRECICE system): These modern nails, equipped with a telescopic mechanism, are placed inside the bone and controlled by an externally operated magnetic system for controlled lengthening. No external device is visible, the risk of infection is low, and patient comfort is maximized.
Which Lengthening Method Is Better?
The question is not “which method is best?” but “which method is most suitable for this patient?” The appropriate technique is selected based on the patient’s age, initial bone length, femur-tibia ratio, and the targeted amount of lengthening. At Acıbadem, specialist physicians perform these measurements and offer the patient the safest and most effective treatment plan.
How Long Does the Lengthening Process Take?
Following limb lengthening surgery, an average lengthening of 6 to 10 cm can be achieved, depending on the target. However, this is not a process completed with a single surgery. The lengthening process typically begins 7 to 10 days after surgery and progresses at approximately 1 mm per day (0.25 mm x 4).
The average lengthening process can take between 1 and 6 months. For this process to be successful, patients must strictly adhere to regular X-ray checks, wound care, and physical therapy applications. Therefore, the procedure is not a “procedure” but a “process.”
Pre- and Post-Operative Preparations
At Acıbadem Healthcare Group, patients undergo a detailed information process before surgery. All stages, including the technique to be used, the duration of the surgery, the length of hospital stay (usually 4-5 days), the amount of lengthening, the recovery period, and the timing of physical therapy, are shared with the patient in detail.
It is recommended that patients remain in the country for the first 15 days after surgery and undergo frequent check-ups. This allows the progress of the lengthening process to be monitored. Throughout the process, physical therapy support is provided to help the muscles and tissues adapt to the lengthening.
A Patient Story: Henrik’s Journey
Henrik Simonsen, a 32-year-old from Denmark, experienced a leg length discrepancy due to a previous traffic accident. He had previously undergone three surgeries on his tibia bone, achieving a 5 cm extension. However, the femur-tibia ratio was compromised. Following a successful limb lengthening surgery at Acıbadem, his femur was extended by approximately 6-7 cm.
According to Henrik, the team at Acıbadem was professional, helpful, and extremely attentive. This operation was not only a physical correction for him but also a psychological healing and a step toward the life he had always dreamed of.
Why Acıbadem Healthcare Group?
Acıbadem Healthcare Group, which has hospitals accredited by JCI (Joint Commission International) and meeting international standards, offers personalized planning and multidisciplinary approaches with experienced orthopedic and traumatology specialists, advanced surgical techniques, and devices (such as telescopic systems like PRECICE).
With strong physical therapy and rehabilitation support after surgery, Acıbadem Healthcare Group ensures that patients undergo a safe, comfortable, and scientific leg lengthening process that is not only aesthetic but also medically necessary.
Take the First Step toward Your Dream Height
Height increase can transform your life both physically and mentally. Whether you are considering this process for health or aesthetic reasons, make sure you are in the right place.
Contact Acıbadem Healthcare Group for detailed information and expert advice. It is never too late for a new beginning.
