Bone lengthening is a surgical procedure indicated to correct differences in limb length, whether congenital (dwarfism) or acquired (following trauma). This procedure helps to harmonize the figure and improve the function of the affected limbs. It can be performed on the upper or lower limbs, bilaterally or unilaterally.
Lengthening techniques are varied, using devices such as external or internal fixators and intramedullary nails. These devices create a microfracture in the bone (osteotomy),which is gradually expanded at a rate of about 1 mm per day, stimulating the formation of new bone tissue.
- People born with arms or legs out of proportion to the rest of their body.
- People who have suffered an injury that causes an imbalance between two limbs or whose limbs have become shorter due to an infection.
- Cancer patients who have lost bone tissue following operations.
- Blood clots.
- Nerve and blood vessel damage.
- Stiffness.
- Infection.
- The operation lasts between 2 to 3 hours.
- The healing phase can take up to 6 months.
- 80%.
Leg lengthening: Best specialists & costs in Turkey
Imagine a new dimension with bone lengthening in Turkey!
With Turquie Santé, you have access to quality care in state-of-the-art clinics. Our medical partners specialize in the most advanced limb lengthening techniques.
We offer a customized care plan for a successful transformation: our team is with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to your return home. Enjoy personalized follow-up care and a caring environment.
Ready to take the first step? Send us your medical file now and benefit from our advantageous costs for your surgery.
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Limb lengthening surgery: Who is it for?
Leg lengthening is a surgical procedure primarily indicated to correct significant differences in length between the lower limbs. These differences can be caused by:
- Congenital anomalies: such as achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism.
- Trauma: poorly healed fractures, amputations, etc.
- Idiopathic dysmetria: i.e. no apparent cause.
In some cases, people wish to lengthen their legs for aesthetic reasons. Although this is possible, a thorough medical and psychological evaluation is essential. In Turkey, the surgeon will determine whether the surgery is feasible and whether the expected result is appropriate for the patient's body.
When should lengthening be considered?
In the case of mild dysmetria, height-enhancing shoes may be sufficient to compensate for the slight difference in length.
However, bone lengthening is generally recommended for dysmetria greater than 3 cm to improve function and aesthetics.
At what age?
Before the age of 10, lengthening is generally not recommended because bone is still growing.
Between the ages of 11 and 14, an individual assessment is required for each patient.
After age 16, when bone growth is complete, the procedure can be considered.
Gaining height in Turkey: Limb lengthening surgery
Would you like to gain a few centimeters? Leg bone lengthening surgery in Turkey offers a solution to significantly increase your height.
The procedure involves lengthening the leg bones, particularly the tibia and femur. In Turkey, orthopedic surgeons use two main techniques:
- Circular external fixator: An external device is fixed around the leg to create a space between the two bone segments. Bone gradually regenerates in this space.
- Fitbone implant: An internal rod is inserted into the bone to gently expand it. The bone regenerates around the implant.
These techniques are often chosen for aesthetic reasons, but may also be indicated in certain medical cases.
Postoperative phase
Recovery time after bone augmentation surgery in Turkey varies depending on the technique used (Ilizarov, Fitbone, etc.) and the length of augmentation required. On average, the initial hospital stay is between 5 and 6 days. Follow-up visits (clinical and radiologic) are scheduled approximately every 30 days to monitor bone consolidation.
External fixation systems, such as the Ilizarov device, must be removed at the end of the lengthening process. In contrast, the Fitbone implant is designed to remain in place.
The patient-surgeon relationship is paramount throughout the process, which can take several months. For individuals with achondroplasia, surgery is generally recommended in adolescence to optimize results.
Bone lengthening: Personalized recovery
The recovery period after bone lengthening surgery is individual, but generally lasts 3 to 6 months. The first few weeks after surgery are devoted to wound healing.
As the bone consolidates, a personalized rehabilitation program is initiated. This includes specific exercises designed to:
- Improve range of motion in the joint.
- Strengthen muscles weakened by immobilization.
- Regain stable balance.
- Re-educate proprioception (perception of body position in space).
The duration and intensity of rehabilitation is individualized for each patient and evolves as progress is made. Working closely with your physical therapist is critical to achieving your goals.
The success of your recovery depends in large part on your attendance at physical therapy sessions and regular home exercises.
Risks of bone lengthening surgery
Bone lengthening, a major surgical procedure, should not be taken lightly. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a shortcut to gaining height without a valid medical reason.
The risks associated with this surgery are not negligible:
- Risk of nerve and vascular damage, which may result in sensory or motor dysfunction.
- Risk of infection, which can delay healing and require additional treatment.
- Healing disorders: Bone may not heal properly, requiring additional surgery.
- Thrombosis: The formation of blood clots is a risk that must be considered, especially in the lower extremities.
Selection of a highly skilled surgeon and strict compliance with postoperative instructions are essential. Regular medical follow-up is essential to detect and treat any complications.
Each patient is unique, and the risks vary from case to case. It is important to discuss these issues in detail with your surgeon in Turkey before making a decision.
Is it possible to gain waistline without surgery?
For those who want to gain a few extra inches but are still growing, there are natural, non-surgical methods. By adopting simple new lifestyle habits, it's possible to stimulate growth hormone production naturally.
Here are some keys to optimizing growth:
- Eat a balanced diet: Choose foods rich in zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6, and complex carbohydrates to stimulate growth hormone production.
- A good night's sleep: Make sure you get enough sleep each night, as it's during deep sleep that the body naturally releases this hormone.
- Regular physical activity: Engage in a physical activity appropriate for your age and level. Physical activity stimulates the production of growth hormone.
- Cold showers: Some studies suggest that cold showers may stimulate growth hormone production.
It's important to note that these natural methods do not guarantee spectacular growth, and results may vary from person to person.
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A person undergoing leg lengthening surgery can increase approximately 8 centimeters to his original height, which adds a noticeable change to the individual's external appearance.
Leg lengthening surgery is considered one of the most successful operations, with a success rate of more than 90%. This type of surgery is also witnessing increasing demand, especially among men.
Leg lengthening can lead to complications such as :
- Muscle contraction due to the adaptation to bone growth
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Nausea and vomiting...
The leg-lengthening procedure can take from 3 to 6 months to achieve the expected result.
Generally, the leg-lengthening process is painless. In case the patient feels pain, painkillers will be prescribed and administered, so the patient will feel more comfortable.
The main contraindications of leg lengthening are :
- Blood clotting disorders
- HIV/AIDS
- Active infections
The cost of leg lengthening in Turkey starts at 39,000 dollars depending on the condition of the patient and the part he/she wishes to enlarge.
Turquie Santé invites you to request a quote from our experienced consultants.