Limb Lengthening Surgery in Australia

Types of Limb Lengthening Procedures in Australia

1. External Fixation (Ilizarov Method)

• A metal frame is attached outside the leg with pins.

• Adjusted daily to gradually stretch the bone (~1 mm/day).

• Pros: Lower cost, precise control.

• Cons: Higher infection risk, less comfortable.

2. Internal Lengthening (PRECICE Nail)

A telescopic rod is implanted inside the bone. Lengthened via an external magnetic remote.

This is more comfortable and has lower risk of infection, which is why most people inch towards this. On the other hand, the downside is that they have to pay higher costs and it is not suitable for all cases.

3. Cosmetic Height Enhancement

This is a combination of femur and tibia lengthening. These are your thigh and shin bones, respectively.

Getting cosmetic limb lengthening can help increase your heigh by a total of 5-15 cm or 2-6 inches. In comparison to the 2-3 inches in normal lengthening.

It is also important to note that the height increase is in two parts as thigh and shin bone lengthening is done in a gap of 12-14 months.

The Limb Lengthening Process

Before Surgery

• X-rays, MRI, blood tests are the primary tests in your medical evaluation.

• Then comes the psychological assessment to check the correct motivation and ability to see through the recovery.

• Before the operation you would be asked to adjust any medications that you take and stop smoking.

During Surgery (3–5 Hours)

1. The first step after prepping the area for surgery is cutting the bone carefully. This is also known as osteotomy.

2. Depending on the best option and patient preference, either the external fixator or internal nail is placed.

3. You may need to stay in hospital for 3-5 days.

Lengthening Phase (1–3 Months)

This will feel like the longest periods but it is important that you stay patient and follow your doctor’s instructions.

The new bone stretches around 1 mm/day. You will be put on physical therapy to prevent muscle stiffness and allow smooth adjustment to the new height.

Consolidation Phase (3–6 Months)

This is the period when your new bone starts hardening after forming. You will continue your physical therapy.

As you progress through this phase, you start depending less on any support to walk. This is encouraged for weight-bearing and making the new bone stronger.

Device Removal & Final Recovery

• External fixators: Removed after ~6 months.

• Internal nails: May stay permanently.

• Full recovery: 6–12 months.

How Much Height Can You Gain?

• Femur (thigh bone): 5–8 cm (2–3 inches).

• Tibia (shin bone): 4–6 cm (1.5–2.5 inches).

• Combined (femur + tibia): Up to 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) total.

Note: Greater increases require staged surgeries.

Limb Lengthening Surgery Cost in Australia

• External fixation (Ilizarov): AUD $70,000–$120,000.

• Internal nail (PRECICE): AUD $100,000–$180,000.

Additional costs:

• Hospital fees, surgeon fees, physiotherapy.

• Possible revision surgeries.

Does my insurance cover limb lengthening?

• Medically necessary cases (e.g., leg length discrepancy): Partial coverage possible (check with Medicare/private insurer).

• Cosmetic cases: Not covered.