Is there a surgical procedure to increase height?

Surgical Options for Height Increase

Limb lengthening surgery is available for height increase but carries significant risks and should only be considered after thorough evaluation of the potential complications against the primarily cosmetic benefits. 1

Available Surgical Procedures

Limb Lengthening Techniques

• Ilizarov Method: The most established technique using external ring fixators

  • Utilizes distraction osteogenesis (cutting the bone and slowly separating it)
  • Allows new bone to form in the gap as the segments are gradually separated
  • Can achieve 5-8 cm of lengthening per segment 2

• Intramedullary Nail Lengthening: More recent advancement

  • Internal devices placed within the bone marrow cavity
  • Reduces external fixation complications but has its own risks
  • Generally preferred when available due to lower infection rates 1

Target Bones

• Lower Limbs: Most common target for height increase

  • Femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) are typically lengthened
  • Can be done simultaneously or sequentially 2

• Upper Limbs: Less commonly performed

  • Primarily done to maintain body proportions after lower limb lengthening
  • Higher risk-to-benefit ratio compared to lower limb procedures 3

Outcomes and Expectations

• Height Gain: Typically 5-8 cm per segment (femur or tibia)
• Total Potential Gain: 10-15 cm when both femur and tibia are lengthened
• Duration: Process takes 6-12 months including:
  • Initial surgery
  • Distraction phase (gradual lengthening)
  • Consolidation phase (bone hardening)
  • Rehabilitation 2

Risks and Complications

Complication rates are extremely high, reported between 20-100% of cases 1, 4:

• Joint contractures: Stiffness in nearby joints
• Muscle weakness: Particularly in the lengthened limb
• Nerve damage: Can cause temporary or permanent sensory/motor deficits
• Vascular complications: Blood vessel damage
• Premature or delayed consolidation: Bone healing too quickly or too slowly
• Infection: Particularly with external fixation devices
• Psychological impact: Extended treatment period with physical limitations
• Pain: Significant discomfort throughout the process
• Deformity: Angular or rotational deformities may develop 1, 4

Appropriate Candidates

Limb lengthening for purely cosmetic purposes is controversial. Better candidates include:

• Individuals with significant limb length discrepancies
• Patients with certain skeletal dysplasias (e.g., achondroplasia)
• Patients with proportionate short stature who understand the risks
• Psychologically stable individuals with realistic expectations 5

Treatment Process

1. Preoperative Assessment:

   • Comprehensive orthopedic evaluation
   • Psychological evaluation to ensure appropriate expectations
   • Radiographic studies to plan surgery

2. Surgical Phase:

   • Osteotomy (bone cutting)
   • Fixator application (external or internal)

3. Distraction Phase:

   • Gradual separation of bone segments (typically 1 mm per day)
   • Regular follow-up with orthopedic surgeon

4. Consolidation Phase:

   • Waiting for new bone to harden
   • Continued physical therapy

5. Rehabilitation:

   • Intensive physical therapy to regain strength and mobility
   • Gradual return to normal activities

Conclusion

While limb lengthening surgery is technically possible for height increase, it involves significant risks, lengthy recovery, and substantial costs. The decision should be made only after thorough consideration of the potential complications against the primarily cosmetic benefits. Most medical professionals recommend exploring psychological support for height concerns before pursuing surgical intervention.