Cosmetic leg lengthening

Clinical Condition

A 23-year-old, athletically active man felt too short at 163 cm and wished to reach a height of 175 cm. After a detailed consultation, he decided on a bilateral upper and lower leg lengthening with fully implantable intramedullary distraction nails. In order to be able to pursue his profession without interruption and to ensure maximum mobility and independence during the treatment, the two legs were treated separately in a staged fashion.

Treatment

To main proper proportions, both the upper and lower legs were lengthened by 6 cm each, so that a total of 4 intramedullary distraction nails were required. The temporary leg length difference between the stages of right and left leg treatment was compensated for without any problems by a sports shoe lift. After 1 year, the patient had achieved his goal without any complications. He was proud and happy that he had been able to fulfil his lifelong dream.

Result

The final examination showed leg length equality and normal leg alignment. The new bone formation was regular on both the upper and lower legs, so that both legs were fully loadable and sporting activities were possible again without restriction. The patient had reached his desired height of 175 cm.