The medical advancements of the cosmetic industry have afforded miraculous benefits to mankind. Living with the same physical attributes that you were born with is no longer a line etched in stone. From the shape of your nose, and the texture of your hair, to the size of your curves, everything can be enhanced through medical procedures, and this progress in the cosmetic world doesn’t seem to stop.
One such procedure that has been trending is limb lengthening or cosmetic height surgery, which can actually make you taller. As is with most cosmetic surgery, limb lengthening surgery is also invasive and complex. Hence the team of OnlyMyHealth connected with Dr Anurag Das, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Orthopedics & Joint Replacement Department, CMRI Kolkata, to understand this surgical procedure of getting taller, and create awareness about its possible complications.
What Happens In Limb-Lengthening Surgery
“Limb lengthening surgery is a surgical treatment that gradually lengthens an arm or leg bone. This treatment is used to treat skeletal dysplasia, bone growth problems, and bone length discrepancies. It is accomplished by using the body's inherent ability to regenerate new bone, as well as the soft tissues, ligaments, blood vessels, and nerves that surround and support it,” explained Dr Das.
He added, “The procedure starts with an osteotomy, in which the orthopaedic surgeon slices the bone to be extended. After that, the limb is stabilised with one of various external or internal fixation devices or frames. There are two stages of recovery. During the first, or distraction phase, the sliced bone is gradually forced apart, promoting new bone development at the site of the sliced bone.”
As per a study conducted by the Italian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology, which provided the above photo, so far the surgery has presented promising results, provided that it is performed by an experienced and credible surgeon.
Dr Das informed us that this cosmetic procedure to make you taller or fix bone-related issues has grown by leaps and bounds due to the recent advances in orthopaedic surgery. “It is a feasible choice for patients seeking to increase their height. It is a viable option with a high success rate and excellent effects. Complications of leg length discrepancies, such as problems with posture or pain in the back, hips, knees, or ankles, can be improved by having the right length of limbs, and this surgery works wonders in fixing that.”
What To Consider Before Choosing Limb-Lengthening Surgery
Going under the knife should always be a conscious decision. It is important for anyone opting for cosmetic surgery to be fully aware of the results, complications, and the effort required for proper recovery, before the operation. Similarly, with cosmetic height surgery, Dr Das informed, “Sometimes the bone does not grow to the correct length or correctly fit into the place created for its regeneration. There is also a possibility of muscle or nerve damage, infections at the location of the incision or in the bone, and joint or muscular stiffness in the extended arm or leg.”
Also Read: Turned 25 and want to grow taller? Know 5 amazing tips to increase your height
Informing about the pre-op measures for those who have taken the leap of faith and decided to get their height cosmetically increased, Dr Das mentioned a number of crucial steps. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and recreational substances for at least one month before the procedure starts. Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle to improve the chances of recovery after surgery is utmost necessary.
Talking about the post-op measures, Dr Das listed:
- As the limb lengthening surgery is followed by a long period of monitoring and ensuring the bone is growing correctly, patients will require hospitalisation to have the lengthening device modified.
- Keeping the external pins and screws clean to avoid infection is crucial.
- Maintain a healthy weight to avoid excessive burden on your growing bones.
- Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and meet your nutrition requirements to assist your bones to grow as quickly as possible.
- Maintain a consistent physical treatment schedule, and do not miss any appointments or follow-ups.
- Maintain an active lifestyle to avoid blood clot formation.
- Keep a close eye on the treated area for any changes in sensation or colour.
- Spending too much time in one posture, whether lying down, sitting, or standing, should be avoided.
The research around limb-lengthening surgery is ongoing. Experts believe that this surgery is an excellent option to get relief from bone or limb-related issues, and insecurity regarding your height. Fortunately, this surgical concept is widely accepted in most parts of India and there are many hospitals that provide this kind of treatment to patients. Just keep in mind that going under the knife should be an informed decision. Please consult a mental health expert to understand if your height-related insecurity will benefit from this surgery, and not fuel your insecurity further by enabling your self-deprecating thought patterns. If you do opt for this surgery, have a transparent relationship with your orthopaedic surgeon who can educate you on the possible complications and recovery measures.