INTRODUCTION
Height reduction surgery—also known as limb shortening—offers a solution for individuals seeking to adjust their overall stature for personal or cosmetic reasons or, significant leg-length discrepancies in some cases. With a typical hospital stay of just a few days, followed by months of rehabilitation and physical therapy, the entire process demands careful planning, realistic expectations, and a commitment to proper aftercare. In this guide, we will explore every phase of height reduction surgery in detail—from pre-operative considerations and surgical techniques to post-operative recovery and potential risks—ensuring you have the comprehensive information needed to make an informed decision.
WHAT IS HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY?
Height reduction surgery is a specialized orthopedic procedure designed to decrease the length of one or both legs by surgically removing a small segment of bone. By precisely cutting and stabilizing the bone with internal devices such as rods or metal plates, the procedure can improve overall body balance and potentially alleviate both physical and psychological burdens.
Once the patient is under general or regional anesthesia, the surgeon makes a small incision to expose the bone and performs an osteotomy—carefully cutting the bone at a predetermined point. A small segment of bone is then removed to achieve the desired reduction, after which the two cut ends are brought together. To secure the shortened bone, the surgeon uses either an intramedullary rod placed inside the bone canal or a metal plate and screws on the outer surface; both methods are designed to maintain correct alignment during healing and are typically removed after about a year. The incision is then closed, and the patient’s initial recovery may involve a few days of hospital monitoring for pain control and prevention of complications such as infection. Early physical therapy is often introduced to preserve muscle strength and joint mobility, ensuring that, with proper care and follow-up, the shortened leg heals in a stable and functional manner.
THE HISTORY OF HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY
Height reduction surgery has its roots in the same orthopedic principles that gave rise to limb lengthening and deformity correction techniques, which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Early pioneers, such as Alessandro Codivilla, initially focused on lengthening procedures to address congenital or post-traumatic limb disparities, but physicians soon realized that shortening an overly long limb could also restore balance and functionality. Throughout the mid-20th century, especially with the groundbreaking work of Dr. Gavriil Ilizarov in the Soviet Union, external fixation devices became more refined and allowed for more precise manipulation of bone. Although Ilizarov’s research predominantly popularized lengthening, his methods and principles of distraction osteogenesis also paved the way for improved bone healing in shortening procedures. Over time, advances in implant technology, anesthesia, and sterilization techniques further expanded the options for orthopedic surgeons, with intramedullary rods and specialized metal plates transforming what was once a highly invasive operation into a more controlled and relatively safer intervention. While cosmetic height reduction remains less common than its lengthening counterpart, increasing global mobility and patient awareness in recent decades have sparked renewed interest in limb shortening for both medical and personal reasons. As a result, the history of height reduction surgery intertwines with the broader story of orthopedic innovation, reflecting continuous efforts to refine surgical tools, optimize recovery, and ultimately improve patients’ quality of life.
HOW IS HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY PERFORMED?
Height reduction surgery is a specialized orthopedic procedure that focuses on shortening the legs by removing a segment of bone from either the femur or tibia. Designed to address significant leg-length discrepancies or, in some cases, to achieve a lower overall stature, this operation requires a precise surgical approach, thorough preparation, and diligent post-operative care. Below is an overview of the main surgical methods, necessary evaluations, and the recovery process—including the vital role of physiotherapy in achieving optimal outcomes.
Below, you can see the moment of height reduction surgery.
1. Methods/Techniques: Height reduction surgery typically involves removing a predetermined segment of bone (most commonly from the femur or tibia) to achieve the desired decrease in leg length. After making a small incision, the surgeon performs an osteotomy—carefully cutting the bone at the calculated point—then removes the excess portion. To stabilize the newly shortened bone, intramedullary rods (inserted into the bone canal) or metal plates and screws (fixed to the bone’s outer surface) are used; both methods help maintain proper alignment during the healing phase and are usually removed about a year later.
2. Evaluations and Examinations Before Surgery: Before any surgical intervention, patients undergo comprehensive imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to measure leg-length disparity accurately and identify the precise location for osteotomy. A thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and overall health screenings, ensures that no underlying conditions will complicate anesthesia or recovery. Psychological assessments may also be conducted to confirm realistic expectations and to ensure the patient is prepared for the physical and emotional commitment required by this procedure.
You can watch the video of examinations made with our doctor before the surgery.
3. Recovery and Physiotherapy: Post-surgery, patients typically spend a few days in the hospital for pain management and monitoring for complications like infection. Walkers may be needed initially for mobility support. Then most can gradually switch to crutches and then return to unassisted walking within two to three months. A structured physiotherapy program is vital to maintain muscle strength, joint flexibility, and proper gait mechanics; it may include targeted exercises, range-of-motion activities, and, when necessary, manual therapy. Full bone healing generally takes six to seven months, although this varies based on individual health factors, and regular follow-up appointments help ensure that any potential issues—such as delayed healing or alignment concerns—are addressed promptly.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY
Height reduction surgery can offer significant benefits for individuals seeking to address leg-length imbalances or achieve a lower overall stature, but like any surgical intervention, it also comes with inherent risks and drawbacks. Below is a concise overview of the main advantages and disadvantages you should consider.
1. Advantages
Improved Gait and Function: Correcting significant discrepancies often alleviates chronic pain, reduces joint strain, and leads to a more natural walking pattern.
Enhanced Quality of Life: When physical mobility and self-image improve, patients may experience greater comfort and confidence in daily activities.
Psychological Relief: Patients uncomfortable with their height or experiencing anxiety due to limb disparities can find emotional and mental well-being post-surgery.
2. Disadvantages
Surgical Risks: As with any invasive procedure, infection, blood loss, and nerve or muscle damage are possible complications.
Prolonged Recovery and Rehabilitation: The healing process typically requires months of follow-up appointments, physiotherapy, and restricted mobility, placing both time and financial burdens on the patient.
High Cost: This procedure may require financially more than other cosmetic procedures.
WHO IS SUITABLE FOR HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY?
Height reduction surgery can be transformative for individuals seeking relief from leg-length discrepancies or a lower overall stature. However, determining if one is a suitable candidate involves much more than a simple desire to reduce height; careful medical, psychological, and practical considerations all play a pivotal role.
1. Those Considering Surgery for Medical Reasons
Patients who benefit most from height reduction surgery often have a significant leg-length discrepancy leading to:
Mobility issues
Chronic pain
Joint strain
A thorough orthopedic evaluation—which may include X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs—helps confirm both the severity and exact location of the discrepancy. By addressing the underlying imbalance, the surgery can alleviate pain, improve gait, and reduce stress on the joints.
2. Those Seeking an Aesthetic Outcome
Some individuals pursue height reduction surgery to lower their overall stature for cosmetic or personal reasons. While they may not have a medical need, these patients should:
Have realistic expectations regarding final appearance
Be aware of the inherent risks and lengthy recovery
Understand the financial and emotional investment involved
Careful psychological assessment is crucial, ensuring patients are prepared for the permanent nature of the surgery and the changes it will bring to their self-image.
3. Age, General Health, and Other Considerations
Age is an important factor, as adults with fully developed bones are typically more suitable candidates. Younger individuals whose growth plates remain open may require alternative interventions or need to wait until skeletal maturity. Overall physical health also matters:
Adequate bone density
Healthy bloodwork
Low risk of infection or delayed healing
Finally, maintaining good mental health and having a solid support system are essential. The procedure can be demanding—physically, financially, and emotionally—so patients should be prepared for:
Months of rehabilitation
Potential lifestyle adjustments
Close collaboration with orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists
By examining these factors alongside expert medical guidance, individuals can make an informed decision about whether height reduction surgery is the right path for them.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS OF HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY
Height reduction surgery is a specialized orthopedic intervention that can greatly enhance a patient’s comfort and quality of life—whether by correcting a leg-length discrepancy or achieving a lower overall stature for personal reasons. Like any surgical procedure, however, it comes with inherent risks and complications. At our clinic, our quick, careful, and highly experienced medical team employs strict protocols, advanced monitoring technology, and targeted postoperative care to minimize these potential issues. Below is an overview of the most common risks associated with height reduction surgery and how we proactively work to prevent them.
1. Muscle Weakness
Description: Post-operative muscle weakness may result from reduced mobility, surgical manipulation, or disuse of specific muscle groups.
Our Approach: We incorporate individualized physical therapy programs soon after surgery to help rebuild muscle strength, improve range of motion, and maintain flexibility.
2. Delayed Bone Healing
Possible Outcome: Prolonged pain and extended recovery times if the bone takes longer than usual to fuse.
Mitigation Strategies: We closely monitor bone healing through regular imaging and patient check-ups. Nutritional support, bone stimulators, and early mobilization (when safe) further aid in promoting proper and timely healing.
3. Thickening of the Upper Leg
Cause: Post-surgical responses, altered biomechanics, or changes in soft tissue around the shortened bone can sometimes lead to increased muscle bulk or swelling, particularly in the thigh.
Management: Targeted physiotherapy helps smooth out these changes by focusing on strengthening and flexibility. Our team also offers guidance on massage techniques and posture correction to support a more symmetrical appearance.
4. Edema
Definition: Edema is a buildup of excess fluid in the tissues, causing swelling that can occur around the surgical site.
Prevention & Care: Elevation of the affected limb, compression stockings, and gentle movement are often recommended. Our medical team may also prescribe diuretics or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce fluid accumulation and facilitate healing.
5. Hematoma
Cause: A hematoma is a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, typically resulting from bleeding during or after surgery.
Monitoring & Treatment: Small hematomas can often resolve independently; however, larger or painful hematomas may require drainage. Our surgical team carefully monitors for excessive bleeding both during and after the procedure to minimize this risk.
6. Nerve Pain
Explanation: During surgery, nerves may become irritated or damaged, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness. These risks generally occur on tibia since that area is closer to the nerves, and they are not seen on femur.
Management: Our approach includes careful surgical techniques to avoid nerve structures whenever possible. If nerve pain arises; medications, acupuncture or specialized physical therapy may be recommended to support nerve regeneration and reduce discomfort.
7. Non-Bone Union (Nonunion)
Problem: In rare cases, the bone segments fail to fuse (nonunion), resulting in instability and persistent pain.
Intervention: We closely monitor healing with regular imaging. Where nonunion occurs, additional procedures such as bone grafting or revision surgery might be necessary. Ensuring optimal nutrition, following weight-bearing guidelines, and attending regular follow-up visits can help prevent or detect nonunion early.
Conclusion
While height reduction surgery offers significant benefits, patients must understand and weigh these potential risks. Thanks to our meticulous surgical methods, advanced technology, and dedicated postoperative care, our specialized team maintains exceptionally high safety standards. By staying vigilant, addressing any concerns immediately, and providing customized rehabilitation regimens, we ensure the lowest possible complication rates and the most positive outcomes for our patients.
Below, you can see the video of our medical team performing Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in order to prevent muscle weakness.
RECOVERY PROCESS AFTER HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY
After height reduction surgery, patients go through a careful recovery phase that balances physical healing with gradual mobility. Bone healing, weight-bearing progress, and regular doctor visits all play a vital role. With the support of physical therapy and consistent patient effort, most can safely return to daily activities over time.
1. First Days After Surgery
Hospital Stay
Monitoring and Pain Control: Most patients remain in the hospital for a few days, which medical staff monitor vital signs, incision sites, and overall, during comfort. Pain management typically includes oral or intravenous medications to address any immediate post-surgical discomfort.
Wound Care: Incision sites are cleaned and dressed regularly. Proper hygiene is critical to prevent infection.
Mobility and Support
Assistive Devices: In the early days, patients often use a walker or a wheelchair to move around. Reduced weight-bearing on the operated leg(s) helps protect the shortened bone as it begins to heal.
First Steps: While complete bed rest is not usually required, activity levels must be carefully balanced to avoid putting excessive strain on the bones. Your medical team will guide you on how much weight you can safely place on the affected limb.
Initial Exercises
Blood Flow and Joint Movement: Light ankle pumps, leg lifts, or toe wiggles can help maintain circulation and prevent blood clots. Your doctor or a physiotherapist will advise on simple exercises suitable for this period.
Edema and Swelling Management: Elevating the legs and using compression garments or stockings may help reduce swelling. In some cases, mild cold therapy can provide additional relief.
2. Bone Healing and Physiotherapy
Importance of Bone Healing
Timeline: While the initial healing begins soon after surgery, full bone consolidation typically takes several months—often 6 to 7, depending on factors like age, nutritional status, and overall bone health.
Follow-Up Imaging: X-rays or other imaging techniques will track the progress of bone fusion. Delayed union (slow healing) or nonunion (failure to heal) are rare but possible complications that can prolong recovery.
Physiotherapy Goals
Muscle Strength and Flexibility: After surgery, muscle weakness can occur due to reduced activity or the body’s reaction to the altered bone structure. A customized physiotherapy plan helps restore strength in the thighs, calves, and surrounding support muscles.
Joint Mobility: Gentle stretching and controlled range-of-motion exercises prevent stiffness in adjacent joints (hip, knee, and ankle). Early interventions can satisfy issues like joint contractures.
Gradual Weight-Bearing: Depending on your surgeon’s guidelines, you may gradually increase the amount of weight placed on the shortened legs. This progression is critical for proper bone remodeling and minimizing muscle strength loss.
Techniques and Therapies
Manual Therapy: Skilled physiotherapists may use massage, joint mobilizations, and other hands-on techniques to improve blood flow and relaxation.
Strengthening Exercises: Targeted workouts (e.g., leg presses, squats, or resistance band exercises) will be introduced incrementally to match your healing stage.
Edema and Pain Management: Strategies include gentle compression, cold/heat therapy, and electrical stimulation when appropriate, all of which can alleviate swelling and discomfort.
3. Full Recovery
Transition to Unassisted Walking
Reduced Dependence on Devices: As bone healing progresses and your leg muscles strengthen, you’ll rely less on crutches or walkers. Many patients can walk unassisted within 2 to 3 months, though this timeline can vary.
Balance and Coordination: Advanced exercises, such as single-leg stands or gentle balancing tasks, may be introduced to improve stability and confidence.
Return to Daily Activities and Exercise
Light Activities and Work: Many patients resume desk-based jobs a few weeks to a couple of months after surgery, depending on pain control and mobility. Jobs requiring significant standing or physical exertion may need a longer healing window.
Sports and Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can be reintroduced once your doctor approves. High-impact sports (running, basketball) generally require a longer clearance time to ensure the shortened bone is fully stable and capable of handling additional strain.
Internal Nail Removal Surgery
Timing: If your surgeon used intramedullary rods or metal plates and screws, these are often removed once the bone has fully consolidated—commonly around 1 year post-op.
Long-Term Considerations
Monitoring and Check-Ups: Regular follow-up appointments ensure proper alignment, maintain bone health, and address any late-emerging issues such as nerve discomfort or muscular imbalances.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Continuing an appropriate exercise routine, maintaining a healthy diet, and monitoring weight can all contribute to sustained joint health and overall wellbeing.
Conclusion
The recovery process after height reduction surgery is a journey that demands patience, consistent physiotherapy, and close collaboration with healthcare professionals. By following a structured post-operative plan—focusing on the crucial early days of healing, ongoing bone consolidation, and comprehensive rehabilitation—patients can safely regain mobility, improve function, and enjoy the positive long-term outcomes of a well-executed height reduction procedure.
Our experienced team is ready to guide you through every step of your journey. Thanks to our experienced surgeons and strict care protocols, we keep potential risks during recovery process minimum. Thorough post-surgery checks and regular follow-up visits ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Plus, our physical therapy and rehabilitation plans are key to supporting your recovery and helping you get back on your feet.
Limb lengthening surgery requires a significant financial investment. The cost of the procedure varies depending on the method used, the surgeon’s expertise, the quality of the hospital, and additional services. Turkey has become a leading destination in this field, offering high-quality healthcare services at more affordable costs compared to many other countries.
In the video below, you can see a day of our patient who underwent height reduction surgery.
HOW BODY PROPORTIONS ARE MAINTAINED?
Height reduction surgery is carefully designed to maintain natural body proportions while achieving the desired decrease in leg length. Our surgeon limits femur (thigh bone) shortening to approximately 5.5 cm and tibia (shin bone) reduction to about 3 cm. One key reason for these recommended limits is that the femur is naturally longer than the tibia, so proportional changes must reflect those initial anatomical differences. By carefully calculating the reduction based on the patient’s overall height, leg length, and torso-to-leg ratio, the surgical team helps ensure that post-surgery body balance—including factors like gait, posture, and even aesthetics—remains as harmonious as possible.
Furthermore, these constraints also reduce potential stress on the joints and soft tissues, as removing too much bone can strain the knees, hips, and other weight-bearing structures, potentially leading to discomfort or long-term complications. Through this measured approach, the patient can achieve improved balance and comfort while preserving a natural-looking physique after surgery.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY AFTER HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in a successful recovery after height reduction surgery. By focusing on muscle strength, flexibility, and pain management, it helps patients regain their mobility and prevent complications like muscle weakness or joint stiffness. Proper, regular physiotherapy not only supports bone union and functional capacity but also boosts self-confidence, setting the stage for a smoother transition back to everyday life.
1. Restoring Mobility and Aiding Bone Union
Height reduction surgery can temporarily limit mobility. By engaging in regular physiotherapy sessions, patients regain leg strength and maintain proper joint function. These exercises also stimulate healthy bone healing—often referred to as bone union—ensuring that the surgically shortened bones fuse securely and effectively.
2. Rapid and Effective Recovery
One of the main goals of post-operative physiotherapy is to speed up and enhance the healing process. Targeted exercises and specialized treatment methods help reduce the risk of complications, such as swelling and stiffness, thereby guiding patients back to their daily routines more quickly.
3. Enhancing Functional Capacity
After surgery, it’s crucial to preserve and gradually improve the legs’ functional abilities. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening muscles, increasing flexibility, and building overall endurance. This holistic approach makes activities like walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily tasks more manageable and comfortable.
4. Preventing Potential Complications
Extended periods of reduced movement can lead to problems like muscle weakness and joint stiffness. Through a structured physiotherapy regimen, patients lower the chances of such complications, promoting smoother transitions to weight-bearing and normal movement patterns.
5. Managing Pain and Discomfort
Pain is a common part of recovery, but physiotherapy plays a major role in controlling it. A mix of therapeutic exercises and techniques helps alleviate discomfort, making the healing process more tolerable and preserving the patient’s motivation to stay active.
6. Building Self-Confidence and Independence
Progressive gains in strength, mobility, and comfort often result in boosted self-esteem. As patients notice improvements in their ability to move freely and carry out daily tasks, they experience a growing sense of independence—an essential component of overall wellness after height reduction surgery.
HEIGHT REDUCTION SURGERY COSTS
Height reduction surgery is a medical procedure that requires a good amount of financing. The costs of this surgery vary between countries, clinics and doctors. Since Turkey has now become very popular in this field by offering affordable medical treatments especially in cosmetic area, it is chosen more often by many people. However, one of the biggest questions people always ask about is the cost of this procedure. Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you understand the financial aspects, why Turkey has become a major hub for height reduction surgery, what’s usually included in the total fee, and how insurance or alternative payment options come into play.
1.Factors That Affect the Cost
Because height reduction surgery is a specialized procedure, the cost range in Turkey can vary depending on multiple factors—such as the clinic, surgeon’s experience, and whether the package includes accommodation and post-operative care.
1. Surgeon’s Experience
Although surgeons with specialized skills can lower the likelihood of complications and promote a more comfortable healing process, their advanced training and extensive experience typically charge higher fees.
2. Hospital Services
Hospitals that are equipped with more advanced technology and extensive services may cost higher. Therefore, it is wiser to do research about your needs and requirements before choosing the right clinic and hospital for you.
Height Reduction Surgery Costs in Turkey
As one of the leader countries in the field of medical treatment, Turkey has been also known by the affordable prices it offers compared to other countries. As of 2025, the prices of height reduction surgery in Turkey vary between $15,000 and $25,000.
Services Included in The Surgery Price
Although the services that are included in the surgery prices may differ from clinic to clinic, usually it includes the services listed below:
· Pre-surgery tests and examinations
· Surgery and hospitalization
· Surgery equipment
· Post-surgery equipment such as walker, wheelchair etc.
Insurance and Payment Methods
Since height reduction surgery is considered as a cosmetic operation, it is usually not covered by insurance. Insurance coverage for height reduction surgery varies widely and primarily depends on the reason behind the procedure. For example, in conditions of significant leg-length discrepancy causing chronic pain, mobility issues, or other medical complications, some insurance providers may consider the procedure medically necessary. In such cases, they might cover part or all of the surgery.
Payment options in Turkey are, however, flexible. Many clinics and hospitals offer payment methods that allow the opportunity to pay with credit cards, bank transfers, or cash. When all those possibilities are considered, many people choose to get their treatment in Turkey.
Advanced Care with Affordable Prices
High quality care cannot always be associated with high prices. Even though Turkey has been popular for offering affordable prices for medical treatments in general, it also offers modern techniques and treatments with advanced technology, which is used by expert surgeons.
Therefore, it is crucial to pay great attention to the surgeon, clinic or the hospital you are going to choose. Aside from the prices, the expertness of the surgeon, the techniques used by the hospital along with the reliability should be prioritized.
As Turkey's First Height Reduction Surgery Center (heightreduction.com), we offer the following prices for those choosing to undergo surgery at our facility:
Height reduction surgery prices: $22,850.
These prices include comprehensive services designed to ensure your comfort and peace of mind throughout the process. Undergoing medical treatment abroad can be daunting, so we’ve considered every detail to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our dedicated team provides personalized care and support at every step. From your arrival to your complete recovery, we ensure every aspect of your journey is comfortable, safe, and successful.
Our All-Inclusive Package Covers:
· Meeting and greeting at the airport
· VIP transfer throughout your journey
· Two nights’ accommodation in a luxury hotel before the operation
· An English-speaking care-taker to support you during your hospital stay
· Free tour in Istanbul: Includes historical and tourist sites, a boat tour, and meals at renowned restaurants
· Pre-surgery medical examinations
· 3-day hospital stay
· Physiotherapy support and necessary medications during your hospital stay
· Provision of walker, crutches, and wheelchair
· Free consultations with doctors and advisors when needed
· All hospital expenses related to the operating and recovery rooms
· Fees for the hospital, surgeon, anesthesiologist, and surgical assistant
POST-SURGERY CARE AND ACCOMMODATION
Height reduction surgery is an operation that requires a thorough care and support during the recovery process. During this process, we support you to make you comfortable both physically and mentally. We offer accommodation options that will ensure you get the right treatment along with the comfortable place to stay at in order to achieve healthy results.
As Height Reduction, we provide a range of accommodation options, including comfortable hotel rooms designed for your comfort after the surgery or private home in an apartment, ensuring you have the perfect place to relax.
1.Comfortable Accommodation at Blue Vista Hotel
To make your recovery process after the surgery more comfortable and relaxing, our partner Blue Vista Hotel offers features that combine the comfort of home with hotel standards:
Price:
All-Inclusive: $3,550 per month
3-Month Package: $10,450
Rooms with Kitchens: Fully equipped kitchens to prepare your own meals.
2+1 Luxury Concept: Spacious living areas, separate bedrooms, and disability-friendly bathrooms to make your long recovery period more comfortable and pleasant.
Health and Relaxation Facilities: Physical therapy center, sauna, spa, and indoor pool.
Daily Services: Daily room cleaning, complimentary breakfast, unlimited Wi-Fi, and 24/7 health support.
At our hotel, our friendly staff and expert healthcare professionals are always by your side. The medical support, regular health check-ups, and physical therapy services you need after surgery aim to speed up your recovery and enhance your comfort.
2.Home Accommodation: Safe Recovery in a Homely Place
Our home accommodation option is specially designed for patients who prefer a more private space and cost-effective option. This choice provides both physical and mental comfort for those who want to recover in a home-like environment:
Price:
Monthly Accommodation Package: $2,150
3-Month Accommodation Package: $6,300
Fully Equipped Kitchen: Allows you to prepare meals tailored to your healthy and specific dietary needs.
Standard Room and Cleaning Services: Hygienic and well-maintained environment.
Physical Therapy Area: Personalized physical therapy under the supervision of expert physiotherapists.
Digital Health Monitoring: Regular X-rays and doctor analyses.
Daily Services: Unlimited Wi-Fi and 24/7 health support.
During home accommodation, our expert team provides comprehensive services such as weekly nurse visits, medication monitoring, wound care, and psychological support. These services ensure that you don’t feel alone during your recovery and can focus solely on your treatment.
Services Included in the Accommodation Prices
Services We Offer
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is Height Reduction Surgery?
Answer: Height reduction surgery (or limb shortening) is a specialized orthopedic procedure aimed at shortening one or both legs by removing a small segment of bone. Commonly performed on the femur (thigh bone) or tibia (shin bone), the surgery is intended to correct leg-length discrepancies or achieve a lower overall stature.
2. Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Height Reduction Surgery?
Answer: Ideal candidates typically have:
Fully developed bones, which generally means being past the growth plate stage.
Good overall health, with no underlying conditions that may complicate anesthesia or recovery.
Realistic expectations and an understanding of the lengthy recovery and rehabilitation process.
3. How Much Height Can Be Reduced?
Answer:
Femur (Thigh Bone): Often shortened by approximately 5–5.5 cm.
Tibia (Shin Bone): Typically shortened by about 2–3 cm.
The specific amount depends on your anatomy, surgeon’s recommendations, and the final goal you hope to achieve.
4. How Is the Surgery Performed?
Answer:
Incision & Osteotomy: The surgeon makes a small incision and cuts the bone at a precise point.
Removal of Bone Segment: A measured section of bone is removed based on the desired reduction.
Fixation: The cut ends of the bone are brought together and stabilized using either an intramedullary rod (inserted within the bone canal) or a metal plate with screws.
Wound Closure: The incision is closed, and the area is bandaged.
Initial Recovery: Patients often stay in the hospital for a few days to manage pain and monitor for complications.
5. How is the scarring in height reduction surgery?
Answer:
Scarring from height reduction surgery is generally minimal. Only small incisions are needed to perform the osteotomy (bone cut) and insert the internal fixation nails, so there are no large external frames or hardware sticking out of the skin. Here’s what you can expect:
Small Incision Sites: The surgeon makes every effort to keep the incision as tiny as possible, which helps reduce the visibility of scars over time.
Internal Nails Only: Because the fixation rods are placed inside the bone, there are no external metal parts, leading to fewer external wounds and thus minimal scarring.
Post-Surgery Skin Appearance: In the early phases of recovery, some skin shriveling or wrinkling can occur around the incision areas. This is a common response to the reduced bone length and temporary swelling.
Importance of Physiotherapy: Regular exercises and physical therapy sessions help smooth out the skin and strengthen surrounding muscles, making the scars less noticeable as you heal.
Long-Term Management: Proper incision care—keeping the area clean, hydrated, and protected from direct sun exposure—further minimizes scar formation. If concerns persist, your surgeon or a dermatologist can discuss additional scar-reduction options.
By following your medical team’s recommendations—especially concerning wound care, exercise, and physical therapy—you can keep post-operative scars as inconspicuous as possible while ensuring a smooth recovery.
6. What Is the Recovery Timeline?
Answer:
Hospital Stay: Typically, 3–5 days, depending on your condition and doctor’s advice.
Wheelchair/Walker: Needed for 2–4 weeks while the bone starts to mend.
Walking Unassisted: Usually possible by 2–3 months, although this can vary.
Full Bone Healing: Frequently takes around 5–7 months, subject to your general health and bone quality.
Throughout this period, physical therapy is crucial to maintain muscle strength, joint flexibility, and proper gait.
You can see the condition of our patient 4 months after height reduction surgery.
7. What Are the Main Risks or Complications?
Answer:
Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection.
Delayed Bone Healing/Nonunion: The bone may heal more slowly or fail to fuse.
Muscle Weakness or Strength Loss: Particularly if a significant bone segment is removed.
Thickening of the Upper Leg: Sometimes occurs as the tissues adapt post-surgery.
Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury: Rare, but a possibility in any orthopedic procedure.
Working with a skilled, experienced surgical team and following post-operative instructions greatly reduces these risks.
8. Will the Internal Nails Be Removed?
Answer: Yes, in most cases. If your surgeon uses an intramedullary rod or a metal plate and screws, they may recommend removing these devices about one year after your bone has fully healed. The removal process typically involves a shorter surgery than the initial procedure and can further improve comfort in the long term.
9. How Much Does Height Reduction Surgery Cost?
Answer: At our facility, the price for height reduction surgery is $22,850, covering essential elements such as the surgeon’s fees, hospital stay, and initial physiotherapy sessions. However, the exact cost may vary depending on the specifics of your procedure—like the number of nights you stay in the hospital, and any additional treatments or special requests.
We strongly recommend reviewing exactly what services are included when choosing a clinic for your treatment—for instance, airport transfers, accommodation, medical equipment (e.g., crutches or walkers), and follow-up appointments—to ensure you have a clear picture of the total cost. Ask about potential hidden fees, such as extra nights in the hospital, additional physiotherapy sessions, or medication beyond the standard protocol. By clarifying these details upfront, you can budget accurately and avoid any unpleasant surprises during your treatment journey.
10. Does Insurance Cover Height Reduction Surgery?
Answer: It depends on the reason for surgery:
Medical Necessity (leg-length discrepancy): Some insurance plans may cover part or all of the cost if a doctor can show that the discrepancy causes significant pain or mobility issues.
Cosmetic Reasons: Insurance is unlikely to cover elective procedures done purely to reduce overall stature.
Always confirm coverage details in advance and explore payment plans or other financing options if insurance does not apply.
11. How Does It Differ from Limb Lengthening?
Answer:
Goal: Limb lengthening increases the length of a bone to correct discrepancies or raise stature, whereas height reduction decreases leg length.
Techniques: Both procedures involve bone manipulation and fixation. Limb lengthening often uses external frames or internal nail systems for gradual bone growth, while height reduction involves removing a bone segment and fixing the ends with rods or plates.
Recovery: Both require months of rehabilitation, but lengthening typically demands a more extended timeframe since the bone is being “grown” rather than just healing from an osteotomy.
Below, you can also watch the video of our doctor speaking about height reduction surgery.
Conclusion
Height reduction surgery can be a transformative solution for those seeking relief from leg-length discrepancies or a reduced overall stature. Yet, it demands meticulous planning, a highly specialized team, and a patient-first philosophy. From deciding on the procedure to navigating the recovery process, having comprehensive information and professional guidance is key to achieving both safe and satisfactory results.
As the first company in Turkey to focus on height reduction procedures, we have guided many individuals from various countries through a secure and well-coordinated journey. Our skilled team and commitment to patient-centered service allow us to tailor each surgical plan to the highest standards, meeting the unique needs of every patient.
Our mission extends beyond adjusting your physical height. We aim to provide a nurturing and informative environment that ensures you feel supported through every stage of your journey. Accessing the right information and working with a team that prioritizes your well-being can make a significant difference in your outcome and overall experience.
If you’re considering height reduction surgery, we encourage you to contact our dedicated experts. We offer personalized solutions and thorough consultations, giving you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward. Let us help you achieve the change you’ve envisioned and support you every step of the way.
Telephone&WhatsApp: +90 531 988 30 90
Instagram: heightreduction
E-mail: contact@heightreduction
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