Age Limit for Limb Lengthening Surgery
Short stature is a big problem for many people and can lead to mental health problems. Most people have height goals that they have wanted to achieve since childhood. However, biological and environmental factors do not allow everyone to reach the heights of their dreams.
If you suffer from short stature, or if your goal is to grow taller than you are now, there is a definitive and permanent solution: limb lengthening surgery (also known as leg lengthening surgery). In this article, you will learn about age limits for limb lengthening surgery and whether you are at the right age for surgery.
The age limit for limb lengthening surgery depends on the reason for the surgery. It is possible to do Limb lengthening surgery in childhood to treat short stature (achondroplasia), leg length mismatch, and congenital malformations.
Minimum and Maximum Ages for Aesthetic Limb Lengthening Surgery
The age limit for limb lengthening surgery relies on the growth plate closure (epiphyseal plate). Growth plates form new bones in childhood and close at the end of puberty (ages 17-20). After this age, the only scientific and possible way to increase height is through limb lengthening surgery.
In theory, there is no age limit for limb lengthening surgery. However, to undergo limb lengthening surgery at an advanced age, physical fitness, general condition, bone density, and bone quality are evaluated. Limb lengthening surgery is recommended before age 45, as bone density and quality decrease with age.
If you are over 45 and plan to have lengthening surgery, it is recommended that you have a bone density test before undergoing surgery.
What is the best age for limb lengthening surgery?
Between the ages of 20 and 30, the body no longer forms new bone as it used to, but bone reaches maximum strength and mass. However, after the age of 40, bone mass gradually decreases.
Leg lengthening surgery can be done up to age 45, but maintaining bone strength and health should be a priority. Therefore, the best age for limb lengthening surgery is between 20 and 40.
How can you tell if your growth plate is closed?
Growth plates appear on X-rays as black lines at the ends of bones. Once the growth plate has closed, and the cartilage has fully hardened into bone, this black line will no longer appear on the x-ray. This indicates that the growth plate is closed.
To see if the growth plate is closed, you can go to the hospital’s orthopedic department and have an x-ray taken.
Book a free consultation to find out if you’re eligible for surgery
If you are under 20 and you want to know how to grow taller, you can go to the blog section and read our articles about the natural growth process.
If you are over 20 and want to grow taller, book a free consultation to achieve your dream height safely and at the best price.
The most important thing for anyone considering aesthetic limb lengthening surgery is not to worry too much about whether there is an age limit as long as the bones are healthy and mature. Physiotherapy is the second most crucial factor for a successful surgery.
Proper communication between patient and surgeon is essential, regardless of age. A qualified surgeon assesses a patient’s health and condition well beyond their age to ensure that everything from the actual procedure to follow-up care is tailored to the patient’s needs.
To get more information or in case you have a question, you are welcome to email us.
Email: info@llcig.com
What is the best age for limb lengthening surgery?
Between the ages of 20 and 30, the body no longer forms new bone as it used to, but bone reaches maximum strength and mass. However, after the age of 40, bone mass gradually decreases.
What is the maximum age for limb lengthening surgery?
Limb lengthening surgery is recommended before the age of 45, as bone density and quality decrease with age.
