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Limb lengthening surgery is a complex but rewarding procedure for individuals seeking to correct leg length discrepancies or increase their height. If you are considering limb lengthening in Turkey, it is crucial to fully understand the preparation process, the surgery itself, and the recovery journey.

1 - Before Your Surgery

Consultation & Evaluation

  • A full consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is required. During this session:
     
    • Your medical history and medications will be reviewed.
       
    • Physical examinations and imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, or CT scans) will be performed.
       
    • The surgeon will determine whether the LON or Precice 2 method is most suitable for you.
       

Pre-Operative Instructions

  • Stop taking aspirin, blood thinners, and herbal supplements (such as garlic, ginkgo, green tea, cinnamon, ginger, and others) 10 days before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
     
  • Stop smoking and drinking alcohol 2 weeks before surgery to improve healing and circulation.
     
  • Inform your doctor of all drug allergies.
     
  • Adjust your medications according to your doctor’s instructions.
     
  • Do not eat or drink anything 12 hours before the procedure.
     
  • Maintain a balanced diet with enough protein, calcium, and vitamin D for optimal bone healing.
     
  • Ensure your weight is stable, as extreme weight gain or loss may affect recovery.
     
  • Patients should prepare for physiotherapy by maintaining good joint flexibility and muscle strength prior to surgery.
     

What to Bring to the Hospital

  • Comfortable loose clothing with front zippers/buttons.
     
  • Flat shoes for mobility after surgery.
     
  • Personal hygiene items (baby wipes are useful in the early recovery period).
     
  • Entertainment (books, laptop, headphones) for the hospital stay.
     

2 - During Your Surgery

Anesthesia & Procedure

  • Surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
     
  • Two techniques may be used:
     
    1. LON Method (Lengthening Over Nail) – Combines external fixators with an internal nail for stability. External devices are removed after lengthening.
       
    2. Precice 2 Method – Uses an internal nail with remote-controlled magnetic lengthening, avoiding external fixators.
       

Hospital Stay

  • Hospitalization usually lasts 5–7 days for post-surgical monitoring.
     
  • Pain management and antibiotics are administered to prevent infection.
     
  • Nurses and coordinators will guide you through the use of medical devices, medications, and mobility aids.
     

3- After Your Surgery

Recovery Stages

  1. Immediate Post-Operative Phase (Week 1)
     
    • Hospital monitoring for pain, infection, and wound care.
       
    • Physiotherapy begins early to maintain joint mobility.
       
  2. Lengthening Phase (2–3 Months)
     
    • Daily bone distraction (lengthening) is performed using the fixator or Precice remote control.
       
    • Patients are monitored with X-rays every 2–4 weeks to check bone formation.
       
    • Physiotherapy is crucial to maintain flexibility and muscle strength.
       
  3. Consolidation Phase (9–12 Months)
     
    • Newly formed bone hardens and becomes strong enough to bear full weight.
       
    • Patients gradually return to normal daily activities.
       
    • External fixators (for LON) are removed with a minor procedure once sufficient bone healing is confirmed.
       

Lifestyle & Care Guidelines

  • Mobility: Walking aids (walker or crutches) are required during the lengthening period. With Precice 2, mobility is easier and more discreet.
     
  • Work & Daily Life: Patients may return to work and light daily activities in 4–5 months; light sports in 6–9 months; full recovery in 9–12 months.
     
  • Nutrition: Eat protein-rich foods and maintain high calcium and vitamin D intake to support bone healing. Stay hydrated.
     
  • Hygiene: Keep surgical areas clean and dry. Baby wipes can be used until showering is permitted.
     
  • Scarring & Skin Care: Once wounds heal, use SPF 30+ sunscreen on scars for at least a year.
     
  • Pain & Discomfort: Expect some discomfort during lengthening; pain management will be provided.
     
  • Risks: As with all surgeries, risks include infection, delayed bone healing, and stiffness. These are minimized with proper care and medical follow-up.
     

Key Reminders

  • Minimum age requirement: 18–20 years (bone growth plates must be closed).
     
  • Maximum recommended age: 50 years (exceptions possible for healthy patients).
     
  • Average achievable lengthening:
     
    • Tibia: 5–7 cm
       
    • Femur: 8 cm (sometimes 9 cm with LON)
       
  • A second surgery may be required for patients aiming for more than 8 cm increase in height.