Bone Lengthening Surgery

Creator: Op. Dr. Osman Özcan Apaydın
Published: 2024-09-19T01:54:24+03:00

A Safe and Effective Solution to Increase Your Height

At A Life Health Group, we aim to maximize your health and quality of life. In this guide, you will find comprehensive information about bone lengthening surgery, a surgical method used to increase bone length. The guide covers what the surgery is, why it is performed, who it is suitable for, how it is carried out, preoperative preparation, recovery process, frequently asked questions, and the services offered by A Life Health Group.

What Is Bone Lengthening Surgery?

Bone lengthening surgery is a surgical method performed to increase the length of a bone. During the procedure, the bone is cut and a special lengthening device is placed inside. This device stimulates the surrounding tissues to form new bone. Through daily controlled lengthening, the bone gradually and safely extends.

It is generally applied to the leg bones; however, in some cases, it can also be used on arm bones or other long bones. Thanks to modern surgical techniques, the operation can be performed using minimally invasive methods, which support the recovery process. Lengthening devices can be applied either internally or externally (on the skin surface). Internal devices are more advantageous aesthetically and reduce the risk of infection.

Why Is Bone Lengthening Surgery Performed?

Bone lengthening surgery can be performed for various medical and aesthetic reasons:

Congenital Short Stature: It can be applied to individuals with short stature due to congenital bone shortening or spinal abnormalities.
Post-Fracture Shortening: It is preferred to correct bone length when the bone heals improperly or shortens after a fracture.
Short Stature Syndromes: Patients with achondroplasia and other genetic short stature syndromes may benefit from the surgery.
Aesthetic Reasons: It can be performed to increase height and improve body proportions.

The suitability of the surgery for each patient is determined based on medical evaluations and individual expectations. The height lengthening process takes into account not only bone length but also the adaptation of muscles, tendons, and joints.

Who Is Eligible for Bone Lengthening Surgery?

Bone lengthening surgery is not suitable for everyone. Eligibility is evaluated based on the following criteria:

Age: Generally suitable for young adults and adults with bone growth potential.
Bone Health: Individuals with conditions such as osteoporosis or bone loss may face increased risks.
General Health: Patients with serious cardiovascular, metabolic, or immune system disorders may have higher complication risks.
Psychological Readiness: Since the treatment requires a long-term process and daily device adjustments, motivation and psychological preparedness are essential.

The patient’s expectations and surgical goals are assessed by a multidisciplinary team.

How Is Bone Lengthening Surgery Performed?

The surgery is performed in three main stages:

1st Stage: Bone Cutting and Placement of the Lengthening Device
In a sterile surgical environment, the bone is cut, and the lengthening device is fixed to the bone with screws. The device may be internal or external. Internal devices are placed under the skin, offering aesthetic advantages and reducing the risk of infection.
2nd Stage: Bone Lengthening
After surgery, the device is adjusted daily by a few millimeters. This gradual process stimulates new bone formation in the surrounding tissues. The lengthening phase typically lasts several months, and patients are closely monitored through regular check-ups. The rate of lengthening is adjusted according to the bone and soft tissue tolerance.
3rd Stage: Removal of the Lengthening Device
Once the bone has reached the desired length and the new bone tissue has matured, the device is removed. In the following months, the bone and surrounding tissues continue to strengthen. During this phase, physical therapy helps restore muscle and tendon function.

Preoperative Preparation

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful bone lengthening surgery:

Detailed orthopedic and general medical examination
Evaluation of bone structure using X-ray, MRI, or CT scans
Blood tests and biochemical analyses
Assessment of suitability for anesthesia
Psychological preparation and expectation management
Providing the patient with detailed information about the surgical process, possible risks, and recovery period

These preparations help minimize the risk of complications and increase the success rate of the surgery.

Postoperative Recovery Process:

The recovery process after bone lengthening surgery varies depending on the patient’s age, overall health condition, and the surgical site:

Physical Therapy: Essential for maintaining muscle and joint function.
Walking and Activity: Patients gradually return to normal activities; supported walking may be required depending on the type of device.
Pain and Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain may occur in the first few days and can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
Recovery Time: After the lengthening phase is completed, several months of follow-up are needed until the bone fully strengthens.

Regular check-ups ensure the device functions properly and that bone growth occurs safely.

Treatment Planning and Follow-Up in Bone Lengthening Surgery

Bone lengthening surgery is successful not only through bone elongation but also via patient-specific treatment planning and long-term follow-up:

Biological Healing Processes and Bone Union: Monitored closely.
Lengthening Rate and Device Function: Regularly checked and adjusted.
Physical Therapy and Muscle-Tendon Adaptation: Continuously followed.
Long-Term Outcomes: Evaluated in terms of quality of life and functional recovery.

This approach reduces the risk of complications and ensures permanent, safe results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the surgery painful?
Anesthesia is used during the surgery; therefore, the patient does not feel pain. Mild pain during the recovery period is normal and can be managed with painkillers.

How long does the procedure take?
The surgery generally lasts 2–4 hours; the lengthening process continues for several months. Regular check-ups monitor the proper functioning of the device.

How long does the lengthening process take?
Achieving the desired length with daily few-millimeter adjustments usually takes 3–6 months. The duration is adjusted according to the bone’s healing capacity.

Are there any risks of complications?
Infections, delayed bone healing, device malfunction, and muscle-tendon issues may rarely occur. With an experienced team and regular follow-ups, the risks are minimized.

When can normal daily activities be resumed?
Light activities generally begin within a few weeks; full normal activity occurs after the completion of the lengthening and healing process.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Bone lengthening surgery is a safe and effective method for increasing height for medical and aesthetic reasons. Long-term success is achieved through proper patient selection, an experienced surgical team, and regular follow-up. Physical therapy and rehabilitation support help maintain the function of the bone and surrounding tissues.

As A Life Health Group, we offer safe, effective, and personalized bone lengthening solutions for your health and quality of life. You can contact us for the most accurate treatment and follow-up process.

The Difference of A Life Health Group in Bone Lengthening Surgery

Expert Medical Team: We provide services through a team of experienced and specialized physicians in the field of bone lengthening surgery.
Individualized Treatment Plans: We create customized treatment plans according to the needs of each patient.
Safe and Effective Treatment Methods: We use the latest technology and safe treatment methods.
Patient Satisfaction: The satisfaction of our patients is our priority.
Confidentiality: The confidentiality of your health information is extremely important to us.