Frequently Asked Questions
Direct, honest answers to the questions we receive most often. No marketing speak – just facts.
How much height can I realistically gain with limb lengthening surgery?
Safe lengthening in a single procedure is typically 5–8 cm (2–3.1 inches) in the femur (thighbone), or 4–6 cm (1.5–2.4 inches) in the tibia (shinbone). The exact amount depends on your individual anatomy and flexibility. Attempting to lengthen beyond these safe limits significantly increases the risk of complications. While some patients choose to undergo a second surgery on the other bone 12–18 months later to gain additional height, this requires careful medical evaluation to ensure long-term safety and stability.
Can I run and play sports after limb lengthening surgery?
Yes, but it takes time and depends heavily on proper rehabilitation. Light jogging is typically possible around 9–12 months post-surgery. Returning to high-impact sports like basketball, soccer, or martial arts usually requires 15–18 months. Before resuming these activities, your newly lengthened bone must be completely consolidated, and your muscle strength fully restored. While some patients experience slight changes in peak athletic performance, the majority successfully return to their pre-surgery activity levels with dedicated physical therapy and training.
What is the PRECICE nail in limb lengthening surgery, and how does it work?
The PRECICE system is an advanced internal limb lengthening nail inserted directly inside the bone. Unlike older external fixator methods (bulky metal frames worn outside the leg), the PRECICE nail is completely internal. This dramatically reduces the risk of infection, minimizes scarring, and offers greater comfort. It uses an innovative magnetic mechanism to gradually extend the bone. You control the lengthening process at home using an external magnetic remote control—a painless process that takes just a few minutes daily. As an FDA-approved device, it allows for highly precise, controlled lengthening and is widely considered the gold standard in modern limb lengthening surgery.
How painful is limb lengthening surgery and the recovery process?
Pain levels vary by individual, but the first week post-surgery is typically the most intense (around 6–8/10 on the pain scale). This initial pain is carefully managed with prescription medication and hospital care. During the actual lengthening phase (weeks 2–12), most patients describe a deep stretching sensation or tight muscles rather than sharp bone pain (around 3–5/10). Once you enter the consolidation phase (when the lengthened bone heals and hardens), the process becomes much more comfortable, with only occasional muscle soreness. Strict adherence to prescribed physiotherapy and your pain management plan significantly reduces overall discomfort.
Will my height increase be permanent?
Yes. Once your bone consolidates (hardens), the lengthening is permanent. Your body creates new bone tissue to fill the gap. Unlike temporary procedures, this is a structural change to your skeleton. However, normal age-related bone changes still occur over decades, and you may lose 1-2 cm in your 60s-70s due to spinal compression – same as anyone else.
Can I do both legs at the same time?
We typically perform bilateral (both legs) surgery simultaneously. This is safer than doing them separately and halves total recovery time. You lengthen both legs equally to maintain balance. Doing one leg at a time would require two separate recovery periods and create a limping gait during the months in between.
What are the psychological requirements?
We screen for mental health stability because this surgery is physically and mentally demanding. You must have realistic expectations, strong motivation, patience for lengthy recovery, and emotional resilience. Body dysmorphic disorder or expecting surgery to solve deep psychological issues are contraindications. We may request clearance from your psychiatrist/therapist if you have mental health history.
How long until I can return to work?
Desk jobs (remote work): 2-3 weeks. Office jobs requiring commuting: 4-6 weeks. Light physical work: 3-4 months. Heavy labor/construction: 6-9 months. Most patients take 1-2 months off work completely. If your job is flexible, you can work part-time from week 2-3 onwards from your accommodation.