Limb Lengthening

Conceptual image representing limb lengthening or increased height

Enhance Your Height and Quality of Life

Limb-lengthening surgery is a specialized procedure designed to increase height and improve body proportions for individuals with conditions such as achondroplasia or those seeking cosmetic height enhancement. This transformative surgery offers a solution to address both functional challenges and aesthetic goals, significantly improving quality of life and self-confidence.

Benefits of Limb Lengthening

Limb-lengthening surgery offers a range of benefits for individuals seeking to enhance their height and improve their overall quality of life. Some of the key advantages include:

  • Increased height and improved body proportions
  • Enhanced self-esteem and confidence
  • Better ability to perform daily activities
  • Potential reduction in back pain or other physical discomforts associated with limb length discrepancies

Ideal Candidates for Limb Lengthening

Limb-lengthening surgery may be right for you if you meet the following criteria:

  • Individuals with achondroplasia or other forms of dwarfism
  • Adults seeking a cosmetic height increase
  • Those in good overall health, with realistic expectations
  • Non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after surgery
  • Patients committed to the lengthy recovery and physical therapy process

Methods

Limb-Lengthening Techniques Used by Dr. Drakou

Dr. Androniki Drakou employs state-of-the-art methods for limb-lengthening, ensuring precision, safety, and optimal outcomes for her patients. Her preferred technique is the Precice system, a minimally invasive, magnetically controlled intramedullary nail that allows for accurate and adjustable bone lengthening. This advanced method offers several advantages over traditional external fixators, including:

  • Reduced risk of infection: Since the device is internal, there are no external pins or wires.
  • Greater comfort: Patients experience less discomfort during the lengthening process.
  • Precise control: The magnetic mechanism allows for fine adjustments, ensuring the bone lengthens at the ideal rate.
  • Faster recovery: The internal system often leads to quicker rehabilitation and return to daily activities.

In addition to the Precice system, Dr. Drakou may use other techniques depending on the patient's specific needs, such as:

  • Ilizarov method: A time-tested external fixation system for complex cases requiring multi-plane correction.
  • Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF): An advanced external fixator that allows for precise, computer-assisted adjustments.

Dr. Drakou's choice of method is always tailored to the individual, balancing the patient's goals with the most effective and least invasive option available.

The Limb Lengthening Process

Limb-lengthening is typically performed on the legs, targeting the femur or tibia. The procedure involves a multi-step process:

  • Surgical Osteotomy: A precise cut is made in the bone to initiate lengthening.
  • Fixation: An external fixator or internal device is attached to stabilize the bone during the lengthening process.
  • Distraction Phase: Over several weeks to months, the bone is gradually lengthened by small increments (typically 1 mm) daily.
  • Consolidation Phase: The newly formed bone tissue hardens and matures over time.
  • Device Removal: Once the bone is fully healed, the fixator or internal device is removed.

The entire process can take 6-12 months or longer, depending on the desired height increase, which may range from 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) per procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Limb Lengthening with Dr. Drakou?

Limb-lengthening surgery with Dr. Androniki Drakou offers a life-changing opportunity to enhance your height, improve your proportions, and boost your confidence. With over 20 years of experience and a focus on cutting-edge techniques like the Precice system, Dr. Drakou ensures that each patient receives personalized, world-class care. Her expertise in managing complex cases, combined with a compassionate approach, makes her a trusted leader in orthopedic surgery. Whether you're seeking to address a medical condition like achondroplasia or pursuing cosmetic height enhancement, Dr. Drakou and her team are here to guide you through every step of the process, from consultation to full recovery.

Schedule Your Consultation
With Dr. Drakou

Take the first step toward your recovery. Whether you're exploring treatment options or ready to proceed, Dr. Drakou's expertise in orthopedic surgery can guide you to a pain-free life.