Is height increase surgery a safe and effective option for adults?

Height Increase Surgery for Adults

Height increase surgery (limb lengthening) can be performed safely in adults with short stature using the Ilizarov external fixation technique, achieving excellent outcomes with minimal serious complications when performed by experienced surgeons with proper patient selection and close follow-up. 1

Evidence for Safety and Efficacy

The strongest evidence comes from a prospective study with long-term follow-up (minimum 5 years) of 50 patients who underwent cosmetic limb lengthening for short stature. 1 This study demonstrated:

• Excellent final outcomes in 98% of patients (49 of 50), with only one patient requiring additional surgery 1
• Safe application when using maximum stability technique with the Ilizarov ring external fixator 1
• Early ambulation possible from the first week postoperatively with walker assistance 1

Technical Considerations

Surgical Technique

• The Ilizarov ring external fixator with maximum-stability technique is the recommended approach, as it achieves frame stability while allowing early mobilization 1
• Multiple factors influence outcomes including ring material, hybrid pin-wire techniques, pin diameter and number, ring size, surgical insertion technique, and pin coating materials 1

Critical Success Factors

• Close postoperative follow-up is essential for early detection of complications 1
• Intensive physiotherapy is mandatory to improve ankle function and prevent plantar flexion deformity during the lengthening process 1
• Experienced surgical team is crucial for optimal outcomes 1

Important Caveats and Limitations

Patient Selection

This procedure is specifically indicated for cosmetic purposes in individuals of short stature who are psychologically prepared for the lengthy treatment process and rehabilitation requirements. 1

Realistic Expectations

While the study demonstrates safety and efficacy, patients must understand:

• The procedure requires prolonged external fixation (typically several months) 1
• Intensive rehabilitation is necessary throughout and after treatment 1
• Regular monitoring by the surgical team is non-negotiable for success 1

Contrast with Other Height-Related Procedures

It's important to distinguish cosmetic limb lengthening from:

• Epiphysiodesis surgery, which is used to reduce height in extremely tall adolescents, not increase it 2
• Spinal deformity correction, which can result in height gain (mean 7.6 cm) but is performed for medical indications, not cosmetic height increase 3

Quality of Life Considerations

The available evidence focuses on technical outcomes and safety rather than long-term quality of life metrics. However, the 98% excellent outcome rate and absence of serious complications in long-term follow-up suggests favorable patient satisfaction when proper technique and patient selection are employed. 1