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Are you ready to take your height to new heights? Limb lengthening surgery allows adults to increase their height by growing new bone. With advanced orthopedic technology, it's now possible to achieve your desired height within months. This guide will take you through the entire process, from the initial consultation with a qualified surgeon to post-surgery rehabilitation and final results.
Imagine being able to reach new heights in your personal and professional life. With limb lengthening surgery, it's now possible to turn your dream of being taller into a reality. So, if you're ready to take the leap and make your height dreams come true, read on to learn everything you need to know about the limb lengthening process and how it can change your life.
1- Initial Consultation with a Qualified Surgeon
The initial step in the limb lengthening process is to schedule a consultation with a highly experienced and qualified surgeon. It is crucial to select a surgeon who specializes in limb lengthening procedures and has a proven track record of successful surgeries. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the surgeon can communicate effectively in your preferred language.
During the consultation, your medical history will be thoroughly evaluated to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the surgery. The surgeon will also discuss the different methods available and recommend the best approach for your specific case. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, the surgeon's experience and qualifications, and the expected outcomes.
Many reputable surgeons offer free initial consultations, which is an ideal way to gather all the necessary information before making a decision. It's essential to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure that you're making an informed decision and that the surgery is the best option for you.
2- Pre-Surgery Preparation, Tests and Examinations
By scheduling a consultation with a qualified surgeon and being deemed a suitable candidate, you have taken the first step towards achieving your dream height. The pre-surgery phase covers all the necessary preparations leading up to the day of the surgery. This includes travel and accommodation arrangements, pre-operative examinations and tests, and final instructions from the surgical team.
Before the surgery, you’ll undergo a series of medical tests and examinations. These include a physical examination, x-rays, blood tests, possibly a bone density test, an electrocardiogram (ECG), pulmonary function tests, and allergy tests if needed. These tests ensure you are ready for the procedure and help in surgical planning.
Throughout this phase, the healthcare team and surgeon will provide detailed information about the surgery, including the risks and benefits, as well as any post-operative recovery guidelines. It's crucial to pay attention to the instructions provided to ensure the best outcome for the surgery.
3- Surgery and Hospitalization
The third phase of the process begins with your hospitalization and covers the time from the surgery until your discharge.
During this phase, you will be under the close supervision of the surgical team and healthcare professionals. Trained healthcare professionals who speak your preferred language fluently will be with you throughout the entire process to ensure all of your needs are met.
Surgery:
The surgery is performed using your chosen method, such as the LON method, or Precice 2, and typically takes 1.5-3 hours.
The procedure is usually performed with spinal-epidural anesthesia or general anesthesia.
On the day following the operation, you will not experience pain due to the effects of anesthesia and medication.
Post-Surgery Care:
The day after the surgery is when pain is typically the most severe. Strong painkillers will be administered to control the pain.
The surgeon will visit periodically to check on your condition and the healthcare team will provide constant supervision.
Within two days following the surgery, you will start to feel better. Pain will still be present but will be managed with painkillers.
On the fifth day after surgery, the healthcare team will perform the first lengthening of the bone and show you how to perform daily distractions (lengthening) on your own, clean the pin sites, and change bandages (applicable for LON and external methods). They will also ensure that you can follow the procedures independently.
Discharge:
After your initial post-surgery recovery and feeling better, you will be discharged from the hospital on the fifth or sixth day after surgery under the guidance of your healthcare team.
After discharge, you will be provided with instructions and guidelines for post-operative care and rehabilitation.
You may need to visit a physiotherapist for further rehabilitation and physical therapy after your discharge from the hospital.
4- Lengthening and Physiotherapy
The fourth phase of the process is a crucial stage as it involves post-operative recovery and rehabilitation. Whether you continue your recovery at home or receive physiotherapy and post-operative care under the supervision of a healthcare team, the process and challenges will be similar. However, it is highly recommended to be under the supervision of an expert healthcare team and physiotherapist during this phase to ensure maximum protection from potential risks, complications, and side effects.
Distraction Phase (Lengthening)
After surgery, patients use screws from external fixators (LON) or a remote control device (Precice) to lengthen legs by approximately 1mm per day.
Pain is common during this process and is managed with painkillers prescribed by the doctor.
By the 2nd week post-surgery, most patients using the LON method are able to walk with crutches, walkers, or without assistance. However, patients using the Precice method typically use a wheelchair during this time
In about 1 month or more, as patients reach 3-4 cm in leg length, pain and tension in the leg muscles may occur. It is recommended to take 1-3 physical therapy sessions per week to alleviate this.
In addition to physiotherapy, patients using the LON method will also be responsible for daily pin site care. Our healthcare team or other qualified healthcare providers may provide this service, including providing and instructing patients on proper bandage care to maintain proper hygiene and prevent infection. For patients continuing treatment at home, we provide and instruct on the use of a bandage care kit.
Patients who choose to continue the lengthening phase at home can do exercises suggested and taught at home, but it is often not enough. The harder patients push themselves to exercise and walk, the faster their bone regeneration process and recovery will be.
X-rays of the legs should be taken at least once a month to monitor growth and bone regeneration progress.
Patients who continue treatment at home communicate with the doctor via internet and send their x-rays for evaluation. During this process, patients can stay in constant contact with the healthcare team and doctor, and get 24/7 support.
In external and LON methods, the doctor will invite patients for device removal after evaluating x-rays. This usually takes around 2-6 weeks after the end of the lengthening phase.
In the Precice 2 method, patients can start walking without assistance after adequate bone union is achieved (about 4-8 weeks after the end of the lengthening phase).
During this time, patients will also continue to participate in physiotherapy sessions and do recommended exercises to aid in the recovery process.
5. Bone Consolidation
The Consolidation Phase is a critical stage in the limb lengthening process as it is the time when the bone begins to heal and strengthen. Typically taking 3-5 months after the completion of the distraction phase, it is crucial to focus on promoting bone healing by following the guidelines provided by the healthcare team. This includes:
Maintaining a diet rich in protein and calcium to aid in the healing process
Engaging in low-impact exercises and activities to promote blood flow and muscle strength
Avoiding activities that put excessive pressure on the bones
Regularly monitoring bone healing progress through x-rays
Being patient and allowing the body enough time to heal
During this phase, patients can expect to return to their normal daily activities, including walking.
6. Full Recovery
After the bone consolidation phase, patients will have reached full recovery and can expect to return to their normal activities, including sports and other physical activities. The length of time it takes to reach full recovery may vary depending on the individual and the method used for the surgery, but generally, it takes 9-12 months. During this phase, it is important to focus on maintaining the results of the surgery by following the post-operative instructions provided by the healthcare team. This includes:
Monitoring bone healing progress by regularly taking x-rays
Gradually increasing physical activity and avoiding high-impact sports or activities
Staying in touch with the healthcare team and getting 24/7 support if needed
Taking precautions to avoid any complications or risks
Listening to your body and resting when necessary
Additionally, after the bones are fully consolidated and full recovery, internal nails placed in the bone marrow can be removed with a minor operation. This surgery typically takes about 1 hour and patients will be able to resume daily activities within a few days.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for a free personalized consultation. We are here to help you achieve your goals and live your best life. You can contact us via WhatsApp at +905339735289 or E-mail: info@dryukselyurttas.com
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