Limb Lengthening and Height Gain Surgery
Limb Lengthening Treatment for children / Height Gain Surgery
Limb lengthening is a process by which our limbs-upper or lower-are made longer. This treatment is often required when one limb is shorter than the other due to congenital conditions like hemimelia or congenital shortening of the femur (thigh bone). Limb shortening can also result from growth arrest caused by infections, injuries, or other conditions. In many cases, a deformity accompanies the shortening and is corrected simultaneously during the procedure.
Limb lengthening surgery is performed on the shorter limb or limb segment to equalize limb lengths. For individuals with significant lengthening goals (15 cm or more), the treatment may require multiple surgeries over time. Additionally, limb lengthening surgery can also be applied bilaterally to increase height. This transformative procedure is commonly sought by individuals with genetic conditions causing short stature or by those desiring height increase.
Limb lengthening involves advanced surgical techniques to safely and effectively address discrepancies, restore alignment, and improve functionality. With proper planning and execution, these procedures can provide life-changing results for patients.
How does an operation actually make a limb longer and increase height? How do we do height increase surgery?
The method to biologically lengthening bones (limbs) was pioneered by Prof. Gavriil Ilizarov, a Russian doctor. He developed a groundbreaking technique called Distraction Osteogenesis, which creates a new bone by gradually increasing the gap between surgically divided bone ends. As the gap widens and fills with new bone, surrounding soft tissues-nerves, blood vessels, and muscles-also adapt and lengthen proportionally, a phenomenon known as Distraction Histogenesis.
Distraction Osteogenesis remains the foundation for all modern limb lengthening surgeries. The technique allows for predictable and safe bone lengthening. For instance, lengthening a lower limb bone segment by up to 4 cm is considered safe in a single procedure. In some cases, two segments, such as the femur and tibia, can be lengthened simultaneously or sequentially to achieve a total of 8 cm. Repeat lengthening of the same bone is possible after an interval of three years, allowing for significant cumulative gains over time.
This advanced technique has transformed limb lengthening surgeries, offering effective solutions for addressing limb length discrepancies and achieving desired height increase.
How Do I proceed with Limb Lengthening Surgery or Height Gain surgery in India?
Book an Appointment
Timing :
- 10:00AM – 4:00PM
OR - Book a video consultation
- Write to us at and send all the relevant investigations and clinical details.
+919810336332
Call Us
cosclinic@gmail.com
Mail Us
Pre-Surgery Preparation
- Have a physical evaluation with Dr. Sarup and his team on the appointment day.
- A scanogram X-ray will be conducted, and a detailed treatment plan will be formulated and discussed with you.
- Blood tests and pre-anesthesia checks will be completed. A surgery date, pre-operative instructions, and a cost estimate will be provided.
Discussion and Planning
- Write down any questions you may have to discuss during the consultation.
- Share any special requirements, such as the need for physiotherapy or home-based care. Our team can arrange home visits for dressings and physiotherapy if needed.
- Prepare for lifestyle adjustments, such as working or studying from home for a few months.
- Ensure access to mobility aids like walkers and crutches. Our physiotherapists will train you on their use and guide you with exercises.
Surgery Day
- Patients are typically admitted 2-3 hours before surgery.
- Final checks will be performed, consent forms signed, and the patient will proceed to limb lengthing surgery.
- Dr. Sarup and his team will update you post-surgery about the procedure and recovery steps.
Post-Surgery Care
- Weekly follow-ups at the outpatient clinic will continue until the limb lengthening process is complete.
- After the fixator is removed, it usually takes at least a month to regain reasonable mobility and return to normal activities.
Commitment to Success
Limb lengthening surgery is a meticulous process requiring detailed planning and dedicated aftercare. The procedure, while transformative, demands effort and cooperation from both patients and families. At COSCC, our expert team is committed to providing personalized care to achieve the best outcomes.
Types of Limb lengthening systems and devices
External Fixator – Mono-lateral External Fixator
In this lengthening device, the pins are applied to one side of the limb, and the fixator sits on the other side – usually outer aspect of the thigh or the front side of the leg.
Circular External Fixator System – Ilizarov Type
Here, the system has metal rings that encircle the limb. The pins are attached to the rings. This design is close to the classical system for limb lengthening.
Circular External Fixator – Hexapod External Fixator
This device uses 2 rings connected by a hexapod frame. The lengthening is planned out, and a computer software programme devises a limb lengthening plan. This system is more useful where the limb shortening is accompanied by deformity.
Internal Lengthening Device – Magnetic Lengthening Nail System.
This is a new system which is now available in India. A magnetic limb lengthening Nail device is inserted into the bone to be lengthened. The entire device is internal and not visible. Lengthening is achieved 3-4 times a day by placing a magnet driver over the leg to achieve a distraction of 1 mm per day.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section below.
What is the name of the surgery to increase height?
The surgery to increase height is called Limb Lengthening Surgery, commonly performed using advanced techniques like the Ilizarov method or Precice nail system.These methods allows controlled and gradual limb lengthening, ensuring safe and effective height increase/enhancement.
How does height increase surgery work?
Height increase surgery involves gradually lengthening the limb bones in the legs using specialized devices. This process stimulates bone regeneration in the gap created during the procedure.This controlled process allows for a safe and gradual increase in height while minimizing the complications
How much height can be increased by surgery?
Typically, height increase surgery can add 5-8 cm in a single procedure. Additional height can be achieved with subsequent surgeries after a gap of 2-3 years,allowing for gradual and safe limb lengthening.
Where can I get limb lengthening surgery in Gurgaon?
Gurgaon is home to several reputed orthopedic centers, including Child Ortho Spine Care, offering expert limb lengthening surgery using advanced techniques and highly experienced surgeons.With personalized treatment plans, this centres ensures safe and effective height enhancement solutions for patients.
How long does limb lengthening surgery take?
The surgery itself takes only a few hours, but the overall process, including bone/limb lengthening and recovery, spans 3-6 months depending on the desired height increase. During this period, patients undergo regular monitoring, physiotherapy, and gradual adjustments to ensure proper bone growth and alignment.