- What is limb lengthening surgery?
Limb lengthening surgery is a medical procedure that increases the length of a bone in the arm or leg. This is usually done by surgically cutting the bone (osteotomy) and gradually stretching it using a specialized external or internal device. Over time, new bone forms in the gap, resulting in a longer limb.
The procedure is commonly performed on:
Patients with congenital limb length discrepancies
Those with traumatic injuries that caused limb shortening
Individuals seeking height increase for cosmetic reasons
- How does the surgery work?
The surgery follows three main phases:
Surgical Phase: The bone is carefully cut and a device is attached to stabilize it. This can be an external fixator (frame outside the limb) or an internal lengthening nail.
Distraction Phase: The device slowly stretches the bone, usually by 1 millimeter per day, allowing new bone tissue (callus) to form in the gap.
Consolidation Phase: Once the desired length is achieved, the bone hardens over several months, and the device is eventually removed.
This gradual process is what makes the surgery safe and effective, as the body has time to generate new, strong bone tissue.
- Who is a suitable candidate for limb lengthening surgery?
Candidates typically include:
Individuals with leg length discrepancies due to birth defects, injury, or disease
Adults or adolescents in good overall health
Patients with realistic expectations about the results and recovery
Those willing to commit to post-surgery rehabilitation
A thorough medical assessment by a qualified orthopedic surgeon is necessary to determine suitability, especially for cosmetic height increase procedures.
- How long does the surgery take?
The surgical procedure itself generally takes 3 to 6 hours, depending on the complexity and number of bones being lengthened. Most procedures are performed under general anesthesia.
The overall treatment duration, including distraction and consolidation phases, can range from 4 to 12 months, depending on the amount of lengthening and the patient’s rate of bone healing.
- Is the surgery painful?
Some discomfort is expected, particularly during the early stages of bone distraction. Pain is usually managed with:
Oral or injectable pain medications
Local anesthesia during adjustments (for external devices)
Regular monitoring and follow-up care
Most patients find that the gradual nature of limb lengthening keeps the pain manageable, and physiotherapy helps alleviate stiffness and muscle tightness.
- What are the risks and complications?
Like any surgical procedure, limb lengthening carries potential risks. Common complications may include:
Infection at the surgical site or pin sites (for external fixators)
Delayed bone healing or non-union
Joint stiffness or contractures
Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
Device-related problems (loosening or mechanical issues)
At Adam Vital Hospital, our orthopedic specialists minimize these risks through meticulous surgical technique, advanced devices, and close post-operative monitoring.
- How much length can be gained safely?
Typically, the safe increase in bone length is 5 to 8 centimeters per limb. Attempting greater lengthening can increase complications, so surgeons often take a conservative and gradual approach to protect bones, joints, and muscles.
For cosmetic height increase, patients should discuss realistic goals with their surgeon to ensure safe and balanced outcomes.
- What is the recovery process like?
Recovery involves both physical and functional rehabilitation:
Physiotherapy begins early to maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength
Gradual weight-bearing is introduced as the bone consolidates
Regular imaging monitors bone growth and alignment
Device removal occurs once the bone has fully healed
Most patients achieve full functional recovery within 6 to 12 months, though minor adjustments and follow-ups may continue afterward.
- Will the surgery leave scars?
All surgical procedures leave some scarring, but the location and visibility vary depending on the device used:
External fixators may leave small pin scars, which usually fade over time
Internal nails involve small incisions, leaving minimal scarring
Adam Vital Hospital’s surgeons employ techniques to minimize visible scarring while ensuring effective treatment.
- How is physiotherapy integrated into treatment?
Physiotherapy is crucial to:
Maintain joint mobility and flexibility
Strengthen muscles around the lengthened bone
Improve balance, coordination, and gait
Prevent long-term complications such as stiffness or muscle shortening
Our multidisciplinary team at Adam Vital Hospital works closely with orthopedic surgeons to ensure a seamless rehabilitation program throughout the lengthening process.
Final Thoughts
Limb lengthening surgery is a transformative procedure, whether for correcting medical conditions or enhancing height and symmetry. While it requires commitment, patience, and follow-up care, modern techniques make it safer and more effective than ever.
At Adam Vital Hospital, we prioritize precision, safety, and personalized care to ensure patients in Dubai and beyond can achieve their goals — safely, confidently, and successfully.