Clavicle Lengthening Surgery: Everything You Need to Know About Shoulder Widening

Do you ever look in the mirror and wish your shoulders were a bit broader? Even with regular exercise and strength training, sometimes genetics just doesn't give us the shoulder width we desire. Clavicle lengthening surgery is a specialized procedure that can help achieve this goal by extending the collarbones to increase shoulder width. In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about clavicle lengthening surgery, including the procedure details, eligibility criteria, potential risks, and a real patient's experience.

What Is Clavicle Lengthening Surgery?

Clavicle lengthening is a surgical procedure that extends the collarbones (clavicles) to increase shoulder width. The surgery involves a two-step process that gradually lengthens each clavicle by 2-3 cm, resulting in a total increase of 4-6 cm in shoulder width.

This image shows a patient before, during, and after clavicle lengthening surgery.

Who Is a Candidate for Clavicle Lengthening?

This surgery is intended for adults aged 18-40 who are physically and mentally healthy. Ideal candidates are individuals dissatisfied with their shoulder width, which affects their self-confidence and quality of life. If exercise and other non-surgical methods have not achieved the desired shoulder appearance, clavicle lengthening might be an option.

The Surgical Process

Clavicle lengthening involves extending the collarbones and then stabilizing them with a titanium plate through a two-step surgical process.

Consultation and Assessment

Before the surgery, patients undergo a thorough consultation to determine their suitability. This includes medical tests and a physical examination to assess overall health and specific needs.

First Surgery: Osteotomy and External Fixator Placement

During the initial surgery, which takes about 1-2 hours and is done under general anesthesia, the surgeon performs an osteotomy by making a precise cut in each clavicle. An external fixator device is then attached to hold the bones in place and facilitate gradual lengthening. Over the next 20-30 days, the clavicles are slowly extended by adjusting the fixator, achieving 2-3 cm of lengthening on each side.

This image shows the first phase of clavicle lengthening surgery. On the left, an X-ray shows external fixators on the clavicles after surgery. On the right, the patient has the fixators in place, which will gradually increase shoulder width.

Interim Healing Period

Once the desired length is achieved, there is a 3-4 week waiting period to allow for initial bone formation and consolidation.

This image shows the interim healing phase of clavicle lengthening surgery. On the left, an X-ray shows external fixators after lengthening. On the right, the patient is in recovery, with the fixators in place for 3-4 weeks for bone formation.

Second Surgery: Bone Grafting and Titanium Plate Insertion

In the second surgery, which also takes about 1-2 hours and is done under general anesthesia, the external fixators are first removed. Then, a small piece of bone is taken from the patient's pelvis and placed at the clavicle site to help the bone heal properly (a process known as bone grafting). A titanium plate is then attached to each clavicle to provide stability and support the newly lengthened bone.

This image shows the second phase of clavicle lengthening. On the left, an X-ray shows titanium plates after external fixator removal. On the right, the patient shows healing progress after bone grafting and plate placement.

Recovery Timeline

• Hospital Stay for Surgeries: Each surgery requires a hospital stay of 2-3 days. This means a total of 4-6 days in the hospital for both the initial and second surgeries.

• Total Stay at Facility: Including both surgeries and the initial recovery period, patients typically stay at the medical facility for 2 to 2.5 months.

• Bone Healing: Full bone consolidation continues over the next 6-7 months as the bones fully heal and consolidate.

• Plate Removal: Once the bones have fully healed, the titanium plates can be removed in a minor surgical procedure.

• Full Recovery: Most patients achieve complete recovery within 6-9 months, after which they can gradually return to normal activities, including lifting heavier objects.

Potential Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, clavicle lengthening comes with certain risks. Here are some potential complications to consider:

• Infection: Maintaining a sterile environment and regular dressing changes are crucial to prevent infections. Staying at our facility during the initial recovery helps manage this risk effectively.

• Bone Healing Issues: Sometimes, the bone may heal slower than expected or not fuse properly, which can require additional treatment.

• Muscle Tightening: The muscles around the collarbone might become tight after surgery, affecting shoulder movement temporarily.

• Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage: Although rare, there is a possibility of injuring nearby nerves or blood vessels during the procedure.

• Joint Stiffness: Limited movement in the shoulder joints can occur as the area heals, but this typically improves with physical therapy.

• Pain and Discomfort: Some level of pain is expected during the healing process, which can affect daily activities and sleep. Effective pain management strategies are in place to help you cope.

• Limited Mobility: Patients need to avoid heavy lifting and adhere to activity restrictions for 6-9 months until bone healing.

Real Patient Experience: 7 cm Taller and 6 cm Wider

Meet one of our patients who previously gained 7 cm in height through limb lengthening surgery on his femurs using the Precice 2 system with Dr. Yuksel Yurttas. He was satisfied with the result, so he decided to further enhance his physique by having clavicle lengthening surgery to broaden his shoulders.

Note: In the video interview, he shared that during the initial phase of the clavicle lengthening process, he had gained 2 cm on each side. However, by the end of the treatment, he added another 1 centimeter on each side and increased his shoulder width by 6 centimeters in total.

"I wanted to improve the appearance of my shoulders to look more masculine," he explained. The surgery was driven by his desire to achieve a stronger, more masculine look that matched the confidence he felt after his leg lengthening surgery.

When asked about the experience of clavicle lengthening compared to leg lengthening, he noted that it was actually easier. "This surgery is easier than femur lengthening. You can't lift heavy things, but you can still move around. The restrictions are less compared to leg lengthening," he shared. Despite the challenges of adapting to his new shoulder width and managing some discomfort, he found the process worth it.

"It's been a challenging process, but worth it," he added. Having broader shoulders not only enhanced his appearance but also boosted his confidence even further.

The patient appreciated the consistent support of the medical team during his recovery. "The support team is really good. The physiotherapists were professional and gave me great advice, both physically and emotionally," he said.

His advice to others considering the surgery was simple: "If you're going to do it, stay positive and work hard during rehab. Trust the physiotherapy team because they know what's best for you."

Frequently Asked Questions About Clavicle Lengthening

How much shoulder width can I gain from clavicle lengthening surgery?

Patients typically gain between 4 to 6 cm in total shoulder width through clavicle lengthening surgery, with an average of 2-3 cm on each side. The amount of increase depends on individual anatomy and the lengthening process.

How much time is needed for treatment and recovery?

The treatment process, including both surgeries and initial recovery, usually takes 2 to 2.5 months. Full recovery, including bone healing and rehabilitation, can take 6 to 9 months. During this time, it’s important to follow post-surgery care instructions and attend physiotherapy sessions for the best results.

Will there be visible scars after the surgery?

Yes, scarring is inevitable after clavicle lengthening surgery. However, the scars are minimal and usually fade over time. You can also consider scar care treatments after the healing process to reduce the appearance of the scars.

How can I get a personal consultation and cost information?

For personalized consultation and detailed cost information, you can contact us via email at info@dryukselyurttas.com or reach out through WhatsApp at +905339735289.