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By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Dr. Haci Kutlu, on Apr 27, 2024

What is Limb Shortening Surgery?

One operation that can help you change the length of your arms or legs is limb shortening surgery. Those who experience discomfort or trouble moving due to limbs that are not the same length can benefit from this procedure. To make daily tasks easier and more comfortable, the main goal is to reduce the longer limb to match the shorter one.

Limb Shortening Surgery Recovery Timeline

How long will the recovery take?

Recovery time can vary, typically lasting from a few months up to a year, depending on how much bone needs to heal and how quickly your body recovers.

How long will they need to stay in Turkey?

You should budget for a two- to three-week stay if you have surgery in Turkey. This gives you enough time to heal fully and to get checked on again if necessary.

When can the patient return to work?

You can usually go back to work about 6 to 8 weeks after the surgery, depending on how you feel and the kind of work you do.

When can the patient return to exercise?

After surgery, light activities like walking might begin a few weeks later. To start to any hard or high-impact exercise, wait three to six months.

When will the final results be visible?

It generally takes up to a year to see the final outcome of the surgery as your body needs time to fully heal.

What type of activities to avoid?

Avoid activities that are rough on your limbs, like heavy lifting or high-impact sports, during the initial recovery phase.

What type of diet should the patient expect after the surgery?

Eating well is important. Prioritize foods high in calcium and vitamin D, as well as those that are beneficial to bone health. Additionally, have a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and proteins.

How Does Limb Shortening Surgery Procedure Work

Consultation

The first step is a meeting with your surgeon to go over your health history and examine your limbs. You’ll talk about what you hope to achieve with the surgery and go over any questions or concerns you might have.

Before the surgery

Before the surgery, you'll need to stop taking certain medications and avoid smoking to prepare your body. You’ll also have some tests to make sure you’re ready for surgery.

The surgery

During the surgery, the surgeon will remove a small section of the bone from the longer limb and then join the ends back together using metal plates or rods. This will be done while you're asleep under anesthesia.

Follow up

You'll visit your doctor about a week after the surgery to check on your healing. More visits may be needed to monitor your recovery and adjust any treatments.

Side Effects of Limb Shortening Surgery Procedure

  • Some pain and discomfort
  • Swelling and bruising around the surgery area
  • Risk of infection
  • Possible slow bone healing
  • Additional surgeries may be required if there are complications

Limb Shortening Surgery Procedure Results

Most people are very happy with their surgery results, which typically improve how well they can move and the overall appearance of their limbs.

How to Prepare for Limb Shortening Surgery Procedure

  • Avoid blood-thinning medications to lower bleeding risk.
  • Stop smoking and drinking alcohol a few weeks before your surgery.
  • Make sure someone can drive you home afterwards.
  • Take enough time off work so you can recover without stress.

Limb Shortening Surgery Quick Facts

Procedure Limb Shortening Surgery
Duration 2-4 hours
Stay 2-3 weeks in Turkey for initial recovery
Cost €25,000 - €45,000
Anesthesia General anesthesia
Recovery Initial recovery varies; full recovery up to a year
Final Results Visible after healing completes, up to a year
Side Effects Pain, discomfort, swelling, bruising
Risks Infection, slow bone healing, potential for additional surgeries
Success Rate High, with most patients satisfied with outcomes
Exercise Light activities after a few weeks, heavy exercise after 3-6 months
Back To Work Typically 6-8 weeks
Scars Minimal, depends on surgical technique
Pain Managed with medications post-surgery
Related Procedures Physical therapy 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is limb shortening surgery?

It's a surgical procedure to achieve equal limb length.

What is the duration of the surgery?

Usually, it takes two to four hours.

Is limb shortening surgery painful?

After the procedure, you will have some pain, but your doctor will prescribe medication to help you deal with it.

What is the success rate of limb shortening surgery?

Most people are very satisfied with their surgery, seeing a lot of improvement.

Can limb shortening surgery affect mobility?

You might have limited mobility right after surgery, but with physical therapy, you’ll get better over time.

What are the risks of limb shortening surgery?

Infection, slow healing, and the need for more surgery are some of them.

How do I choose the right surgeon for limb shortening surgery?

Find a surgeon with lots of experience in limb surgeries and good patient feedback.

Will I need physical therapy after limb shortening surgery?

Yes, physical therapy is essential to help you recover and regain full use of your limb.