Limb Lengthening Surgery
肢体延长手术
Duration
Initial surgery 2-3 hours, lengthening phase 2-4 months
Recovery
6-12 months for full bone consolidation and rehabilitation
Savings
~76% vs US
Average savings compared to US prices
Limb lengthening surgery corrects leg length discrepancies or increases height through controlled bone distraction, using either external fixators (Ilizarov) or internal lengthening nails (PRECICE). Chinese orthopedic centers, particularly those specializing in limb reconstruction, offer both cosmetic height increase and medical correction of deformities at substantially lower costs. Advanced intramedullary magnetic nails allow lengthening with less external hardware and improved patient comfort.
Pre-Operative Planning
Full-length limb X-rays, CT scan, and bone density assessment to plan osteotomy site and target length
Duration: 1-2 weeksOsteotomy & Device Placement
Bone is carefully cut and internal magnetic nail or external fixator is placed
Duration: 2-3 hoursDistraction Phase
Bone is gradually lengthened at 1mm per day using device adjustments, with regular X-ray monitoring
Duration: 2-4 monthsConsolidation & Rehabilitation
New bone hardens during weight-bearing progression with intensive physiotherapy
Duration: 4-8 months- Can achieve 5-8cm of height increase per segment
- Internal nails offer better cosmesis than external fixators
- Corrects leg length discrepancies and angular deformities
- Significantly more affordable than Western centers
- Prolonged treatment timeline (6-12 months total)
- Pin site infections with external fixators
- Joint stiffness requiring aggressive physiotherapy
- Premature consolidation or non-union of new bone
Prices shown are approximate ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by hospital, complexity, and individual patient needs. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical decisions.