Over the years, there have been many new and amazing developments when it comes to the methods and processes used in limb lengthening surgery. Once thought of as a procedure exclusively for correction of leg discrepancy and deformities, has now become a popular cosmetic surgery for people who want to become taller. This is the procedure that will add inches to your height. 

If you have heard about this life-changing procedure, you may have also heard some of the misinformation and myths that go along with it.

In order to dispel some of this misinformation, let’s start with how the procedure is done.

Height lengthening surgery – in a nutshell.

Besides the innovative technology and skilled orthopedic specialists, the success of this surgery comes about by using our body’s own regenerative process to increase height. The procedure is done in a hospital setting, using the type of anesthetic recommended by your orthopedic specialist. To start the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision in the bone (or bones) of your legs, the tibia or femur. A device will be implanted to spread the two ends of the bones. This device will allow the bones to be separated very slowly over time. Separation of the bone is what adds height to your stature. During the phase of pulling the bone apart, new tissue, blood vessels and bone will form. This is the process that will add inches to your height.

The recovery progress varies depending on the person but usually occurs over the next few weeks and months. As you recover, you will be well on your way to leading your life as a taller person.

MYTH #1 – Limb lengthening surgery is for men only

This myth is easily debunked merely because it makes no sense. Men are not the only ones who want to be taller. There are plenty of women who wish to become taller and have undergone this procedure. Enough said? If not, we can assure you that many women, both in the U.S., Asia and Europe who have successfully undergone limb lengthening cosmetic surgery and now enjoy being taller.

MYTH #2 – Horror stories from antiquated procedure methods

As with most surgical procedures, the methods used have improved over time. Limb lengthening surgery is not an exception. If you want to know how the procedure is done now, make sure you get the facts about the current method and devices your orthopedic specialist uses.

If you must see how it was done in the past, you will notice that large external fixation was the norm. In today’s limb lengthening surgery procedures, the devices are usually all internal. When you come upon methods used in the past, merely skim over the photos and then focus on the less invasive techniques that are being used today. This will give you the information you need to make an informed decision when it comes to choosing to have height lengthening surgery.

MYTH #3 – Your height can be increased without surgery

From stretching exercises to fad diets, people have always had ideas and theories on how to get taller. These ideas on how to add inches to their height have come and gone over the years. The problem with these theories is that once your growth plates are closed, there is no way – other than surgery, to add inches to your height. There are no magic exercises or vitamins that will do it.

MYTH #4 – Unrealistic expectations of height gained

Height lengthening surgery can definitely make you taller, but you must have realistic expectations as to how much your height will change. A reasonable expectation of what you will gain following this procedure is approximately 6-8 cm from a single surgery. You are able to double that gain if you repeat the surgery in the lower vs upper part of the legs. One of the benefits of cosmetic limb lengthening is that you will feel like a new person when you find yourself at this new height.

MYTH #5 – The surgery will leave you deformed or unable to walk

This is a common stereotype that really needs to be debunked. As with any type of surgery, there is always a risk. However, height lengthening surgery does not create a high risk of deformity or the inability to walk. You will be followed closely during your recovery to enable you to be up and around as soon as your doctor gives the okay. Current methods being used for height lengthening surgery has patients up walking much sooner than with past methods.

Don’t listen to the myths. Get the real skinny on how the procedure is performed and what the recovery entails. The best and only way to do that is to talk to your trusted orthopedic specialist. If you are interested in height lengthening surgery, make an appointment for a consultation with an orthopedic specialist who has the training and expertise to do this type of procedure. They will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for this life-changing procedure.