Skip to content Skip to footer

Limb Lengthening Surgery

Limb lengthening surgery is an orthopedic procedure performed to lengthen the bones in the arms and legs of individuals whose growth plates have closed. This is usually done for therapeutic purposes but can also be for aesthetic reasons. The lengthening process involves surgically cutting the bone and gradually separating the cut bone pieces by approximately 1 millimeter each day over an extended period. This gradual separation allows new bone tissue to form in the gap, elongating bone. Currently, cosmetic limb lengthening surgeries are categorized into three types based on the materials used:
01. External Fixation (Ilizarov technique)
02. Internal Fixation (Motorized nail)
03. Combined Technique

TREATMENT
TECHNIQUES

External Fixation

Ilizarov Technique

Using Precice Intramedullary Nails

Combined Technique

Videoyu Oynat

External Fixation
(Ilizarov Technique)

The Ilizarov technique, developed by Professor Gavriil Ilizarov in the 1950s, is a specialized orthopedic procedure used for limb lengthening, bone deformity correction, and complex fracture management. It involves a circular metal frame attached to the bone with wires or pins, allowing for gradual bone distraction and new bone growth. This method is particularly effective for correcting multi-plane deformities and treating non-union fractures, offering precise control over bone alignment and lengthening.

Despite requiring a prolonged treatment period, the Ilizarov technique is known for its high success rate and ability to restore limb functionality. While the external frame is visible, advancements have reduced discomfort and scarring, making it a viable option for therapeutic and cosmetic limb lengthening, especially in cases where growth plates have closed.

Using Precice Intramedullary Nails

In limb lengthening surgery, the traditional use of external fixators, such as those used in the Ilizarov technique, has largely been replaced by internal fixators. These internal devices, inserted through small incisions, are controlled externally and offer better cosmetic outcomes by minimizing scarring, which is often associated with external fixators. In some cases, a combined technique is employed, utilizing both internal and external fixators to achieve the desired results.

The surgery, typically performed under general anesthesia by an experienced orthopedic surgeon, can also be done with epidural anesthesia for adult patients who prefer to stay awake during the procedure. The process starts with an osteotomy, where a transverse cut is made in the bone planned for lengthening. The bone is then stabilized using a combination of fixation devices, and the treatment progresses through two distinct stages.

Limb Lengthening
Surgery Methods

LON

  • External or Internal: Combined
  • Walking During Lengthening: 
  • External Fixator Usage: 3 months
  • Bone Healing: 6-9 months
  • Full Recovery: 9-12 months
  • Max. Height Gain: Tibia: 5-7cm, Femur: 8cm
Get Now

Precice 2.2

  • External or Internal: Internal
  • Walking During Lengthening: X
  • External Fixator Usage: X
  • Bone Healing: 6-9 months
  • Full Recovery: 9-12 months
  • Max. Height Gain: Tibia: 5-7cm, Femur: 8cm
Get Now
FOR THE BEST LIMB LENGTHENING EXPERIENCE

Our Services

We prepared some of frequently asked questIons for you

Frequently Asked Questions

Ideal candidates are individuals who are healthy, have realistic expectations, and are seeking to correct a limb length discrepancy or increase their height.

Depending on the method used, you can typically gain between 9 to10 cm (3 to 4 inches) in one surgery. With additional procedures, it’s possible to achieve up to 15 cm (6 inches).

Foods that support height growth ensure the healthy development and growth of bones. These foods are rich in calcium, protein, vitamin D, phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium. Such foods include dairy products, green leafy vegetables, meat, fish, chicken, eggs, legumes, and nuts.

Height increase may be more effective during adolescence. However, after age 21, height increase surgery is considered an effective method. However, height increase can still be achieved outside of adolescence through height increase surgery, which involves breaking the bones and gradually lengthening them.

Contact Us

Have Questions?
Get in touch!