Limb Lengthening Surgery in Turkey

Is limb lengthening surgery safe?

Like any major orthopedic surgery, it carries risks, but it is considered safe when performed by experienced specialists. Potential complications include infection, non-union (bone not healing), and muscle tightness. Turkish clinics mitigate these risks through rigorous pre-op screening, sterile operating environments, and intensive physiotherapy protocols to ensure muscles stretch adequately.

What is the difference between LON and Precice?

LON (Lengthening Over Nail) uses an external frame on the leg combined with an internal nail. It is cheaper but requires pin care to prevent infection and is bulkier. Precice 2 is fully internal; a magnetic nail is inserted into the bone and lengthened using an external remote control (ERC). Precice leaves minimal scars and is more comfortable but is significantly more expensive.

How much height can I gain?

Generally, the safety limit is 6-8 cm for femurs (thighs) and 5-7 cm for tibias (shins). Going beyond these limits increases the risk of nerve damage and joint stiffness. To achieve greater height (e.g., 10-14 cm), patients often opt for two separate surgeries, lengthening both the femurs and tibias with a gap of 6-12 months in between.

How long is the recovery process?

The process has two phases: distraction (lengthening) and consolidation (hardening). Distraction takes about 1 day per 1 mm of growth (e.g., 60 days for 6 cm). Consolidation takes another 2-3 months before the bone is strong enough for full weight-bearing without crutches. A full return to sports can take 12-18 months.

Can I walk during the lengthening phase?

With LON and the new Stryde nails (if available), weight-bearing is often permitted with crutches/walkers. However, with standard Precice 2 nails, full weight-bearing is typically restricted to protect the internal mechanism. You will be wheelchair-bound for long distances but can stand and do transfers. Your surgeon will provide a strict weight-bearing protocol.

Will I have scars?

The LON method leaves small circular scars where the external pins enter the leg, plus incision scars for the nail insertion. These pin sites can fade but are visible. The Precice method leaves only small incision scars (about 1-2 cm) at the hip or knee where the nail was inserted, making it the most cosmetically appealing option.

Is the procedure painful?

Pain is manageable but present. The initial post-op pain is controlled with IV medication. During the lengthening phase, the stretching of muscles and nerves causes discomfort and aches, which is why daily physiotherapy is essential. Most patients manage with oral painkillers. Severe, sharp pain is rare and should be reported to the doctor immediately.

What is the best age for this surgery?

The ideal candidate is between 18 (after growth plates have closed) and 45. While older patients can undergo the procedure, bone healing (consolidation) tends to be slower, and flexibility is often reduced, making physiotherapy harder. Bone density tests are required for older patients to ensure the bone can support the device.

Do I have to stay in Turkey for 3 months?

It is highly recommended but not mandatory. Staying allows the surgeon to monitor the lengthening daily and fix any issues immediately. However, some patients return home after 2-3 weeks and continue lengthening remotely, sending X-rays to the doctor every 2 weeks. This requires finding a local physio and doctor willing to support you, which can be challenging.

Will I be able to run and play sports again?

Yes, the goal is a full return to function. Once the bone has fully consolidated (usually 1 year post-op), you can gradually return to high-impact activities like running and jumping. Many patients return to playing soccer, basketball, and lifting weights, though it requires dedication to the rehabilitation process.

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Clinic Verification

We rigorously vet clinics for safety records, surgeon experience, and facility standards, so you can trust your choice.

Package Negotiation

We help you understand and compare "Stay Packages," ensuring you get the best value for your accommodation and physiotherapy.

Surgeon Consultation

We arrange video consultations with orthopedic specialists so you can discuss methods (LON vs. Precice) and height goals before traveling.

Visa Assistance

For long-term stays (3 months+), we assist with medical visa documentation to ensure your legal status in Turkey during recovery.

On-Ground Support

We connect you with patient coordinators who assist with daily needs, from grocery delivery to transport for X-rays.

Patient Advocacy

We stand by your side throughout the lengthy process, helping resolve any communication issues and ensuring your care plan is followed.