Limb Lengthening Surgery

As Op. Dr. Halil İbrahim Öçalan, we provide expert limb lengthening surgery services in Gaziantep. Limb lengthening is one of the modern orthopedic surgical methods based on the principle of controlled bone elongation. This method can be used for treatment of congenital or acquired leg shortening, leg length discrepancies and some deformities, as well as for aesthetic height increase requests.

What Is Limb Lengthening Surgery?

Limb lengthening surgery is based on the principle of osteogenesis (bone formation) after bone fracture. Through osteotomy (bone cutting), special devices are placed in the bone and with the help of these devices, bone segments are separated by a specific amount daily (typically 1 mm) to allow new bone tissue formation.

Applications

Congenital leg shortening
Length difference after traffic accident or trauma
Leg length discrepancies
Bone development disorders
Leg shortening of 4 cm or more
Aesthetic height increase requests

Surgical Techniques

Internal Lengthening:Magnetic devices placed inside the bone are used. No visible device outside, lower infection risk.
External Fixation: Ilizarov or Taylor lengthening frames are used. Works with pins placed outside the bone, can be adjusted regularly.

Procedure Process

Surgical procedure typically lasts 2-3 hours. Hospital stay of 5-7 days is required. Lengthening phase begins approximately one week later and adjustment is made 4 times daily by 0.25 mm (total 1 mm/day). Lengthening amount varies according to goal (typically 5-8 cm).

Bone Consolidation Phase

After lengthening is completed, waiting period for new bone tissue to harden begins. This phase typically lasts twice as long as lengthening period. During this time weight-bearing is allowed but excessive activity is restricted.

Complications and Risks

Infection (more common in external devices)
Nerve or vessel injuries
Bone non-union or delayed union
Joint contractures (movement restriction)
Pain and discomfort
Psychological stress

Op. Dr. Halil İbrahim Öçalan's Approach

We provide maximum safety and outcomes with personalized treatment plans, modern devices (internal or external fixator), close monitoring and multidisciplinary approach. We offer detailed pre-surgical information to patients and comprehensive rehabilitation programs post-surgery.

Who Is Suitable?

Those with physiological or pathological leg shortening
Those with leg length difference over 4 cm
Those requiring lengthening due to bone development disorders
Healthy individuals seeking aesthetic height increase

Appointment and Contact

Phone: +90 533 643 74 27 | Address: Özel Deva Hospital, Şahinbey/Gaziantep