Even though there are many congenital deformities in which have no treatment, congenital deformities resulting in short stature or leg deformities can now be corrected with height surgery.

This procedure continues to advance in its effectiveness and success for the many people who have opted for this treatment – to straighten as well as lengthen legs.

Height surgery was actually developed in the 1950s, primarily to help those with dwarfism and other serious limb defects. Since then, there have been many changes, improvements and advancements in the procedure. These advancements have also improved recovery time and lessened the discomfort.

Congenital Deformities That Can Benefit From Height Surgery

Height surgery was developed to help correct deformities related to dwarfism, but it is also successful in treating other deformities – as well as being a cosmetic surgery to add inches to a short stature.

• Bow legs
• Knock knees
• Leg length discrepancies
• Short femur

Dwarfism and other congenital abnormalities that cause shortened limbs make everyday tasks very difficult. Daily routines and other activities that most people take for granted are the major accomplishments for people who have short limbs.

Once you have recovered from height surgery, you will be able to perform daily tasks routinely without giving them a second thought.

People with congenital deformities once held no hope for improvement. Now these deformities can be successfully corrected with leg lengthening surgery.

Height Surgery Procedure

Height surgery is an amazing procedure. It is possible due to the capability for your body to create new bone, soft tissue, ligaments, nerves and blood vessels that surround and support the bone.

After being evaluated by your orthopedic specialist to make sure you are a good candidate for this procedure, your surgery will be scheduled. The surgery will take place in a hospital setting and is done either as an outpatient or with possibly a one or two night’s stay.

The procedure begins with your surgeon making a surgical cut - called an osteotomy into the bone that is to be lengthened. The bone is then stabilized using an internal fixation device. During the time that the bone is being gradually pulled apart, new bone growth will begin.

The bone growth will continue as the distance of the separation is increased to approximately one millimeter per day. The space between the bones fills with new bone tissue until the gap and new tissue is at the desired length. Along with the formation of bone, the body also produces new soft tissue, ligaments, nerves and blood vessels so that the entire area remains healthy.

Once you consult with your orthopedic surgeon, you will have all of the information you need to move forward with this life-changing surgical procedure. Being born with a congenital defect is something that you cannot help – but now you have options. Defects affecting your legs can be tough to live with. If you are looking for a way of correcting a leg abnormality – schedule a consultation with your orthopedic surgeon today.