WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM HEIGHT THAT CAN BE ACHIEVED?

The current capacity of the implant in 8 cm of length (3.15 inches) and this is the maximum length that can be achieved per surgical segment. Theoretically for thigh (femur) and leg (tibia/fibula) 16 cm could be achieved. However, attaining maximum lengths are difficult especially in the leg (tibia/fibula). Lengthening on the thigh (femur) is generally easier and getting to maximal length is more likely. The leg (tibia/fibula) can be safely lengthened to 2.0- 2.5 inches. Overall, the more length attempted to be achieved the more risk of complications.

WHAT ARE THE ANY LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF LIMB LENGTHENING SURGERY?

Data and publications exist for distraction osteogenesis dating back over 50 years. Pertaining to aesthetic limb lengthening data from about 30 years have been published using an older form of technology. These studies showed good results with good long-term satisfaction. With new technology and minimal invasive surgery we expect overall even better long-term outcomes. Publications available upon request.

HOW LONG DOES SURGERY TAKE?

Surgical timing is variable depending on the case but can usually can be done in an hour and a half for both legs.

What are the benefits of surgery at The LimbplastX Institute?

LimbplastX offers several advantages that you won't find at any other practice or facility in the world. We are proud to provide the most advanced surgical techniques for stature lengthening treatments and the most comprehensive physical therapy routine post-operation for all patients.

Advanced surgical techniques include:

• Dedicated oversight and efficient access to our exclusive surgeon, Dr. Kevin Debiparshad

• Superior surgical placement of implant devices

• Effective surgical pain blockers

• Minimized post-operative surgical pain

• Reduced complication & transfusion risks

• Virtual elimination of scarring due to minimally-invasive incision techniques

• Rapid recovery optimized for comfort and return to a normal, healthy lifestyle

• Clinically-proven supervision by a robust multidisciplinary medical team with 10+ years of surgical expertise

Comprehensive Physical Therapy includes:

• Pre-surgery physical therapy planning and education

• Seamless transition from surgical center to local physical therapy support

• Highly trained and dedicated physical therapists applying experience from over 400 prior limb-lengthening patients

• Diet, nutrition and supplement guides curated to limb-lengthening recovery

• Robust aftercare planning and resource navigation for patients returning home outside of Las Vegas, the home of LimbplastX Institute

WHAT ARE THE RISKS & POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS?

Limb lengthening surgery carries significant risks for complications. However, the overall rate of occurrences is extremely low and The LimbplastX Institute employs every preventable measure to reduce even further the rate of complications and side effects. Possible health risks include fat embolism, transfusion, infection, non-union, deep vein thrombosis, implant failure, delayed bone healing, premature bone consolidation, nerve palsy, muscle tightening, joint issues, or compartment syndrome. Through Dr. Debiparshad’s extensive practical experience with limb lengthening and reconstruction, he has developed comprehensive preventative measures, including highly specialized surgical techniques and protocols and pre and post-operative physical therapy programs, to greatly mitigate the rate, risk and extent of complications.

WHAT IS THE PAIN LEVEL EXPERIENCED DURING THE PROCEDURE AND REHABILITATION?

Pain tolerance is variable among patients and having insight into this is helpful to predict how you will do during this journey. Generally some local anesthetic blocks are given during surgery. Afterwards pain is controlled with oral pain medications with tapering doses down to minimal quantities in the first week or two.  Occasionally, patients find it useful to maintain some pain medications or muscle relaxant prior to therapy.

HOW DO YOU LENGTHEN A BONE?

Bone is living tissue. It can regenerate itself. This is best illustrated by thinking about a broken bone. Many times, when a patient presents to the surgeon with a broken bone, a cast is placed on the injured arm or leg. Over the next few weeks, the bone repairs itself and heals. The cast is removed and the patient can resume his/her daily activities. This same healing response can be used to lengthen a bone. The surgeon can make a precise surgical break in the bone and then allow it to start to heal. Instead of having the bone heal in its original position, however, the bone is slowly pulled apart (approximately 1mm per day) through a process called “distraction”. As the two bone ends gradually separate, the body fills in the gap with new bone. The new bone slowly heals over a few months and creates the additional length in the previously shorter bone.

DOES COSMETIC LIMB LENGTHENING HURT?

Lengthening a bone through a process called “distraction” seems like something that should be painful. However, the daily adjustments with the Precice internal lengthening device are so small that most patients don’t even feel them. Everyone has a different experience with limb lengthening. In general, the first inch is the easiest, and then it gets a little more difficult. Once the initial discomfort from surgery has passed, many patients don’t require any pain medication during the lengthening process.