How Does The Height Reduction Surgery Work?

Height reduction surgery is a highly specialized orthopedic procedure designed to reduce overall height or correct disproportions in the body. Unlike limb lengthening, which can be performed through several different techniques, height reduction surgery relies on one safe and proven surgical approach.

These are actual bone segments removed from our patients during their Height Reduction Surgery, shown here for educational and medical demonstration purposes.

On this page, you will find a clear explanation of how the procedure works, who may benefit from it, and what to expect during the recovery process. Our goal is to provide transparent, reliable information so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

Cosmetic And Medical

Height reduction surgery is a highly specialized procedure. While it has been performed rarely worldwide for leg length discrepancies, our doctor successfully carried out such a surgery for a cosmetical purpose, on January 17, 2023. This marks one of the first documented cases globally. Cosmetic Height Reduction surgery can be performed under many circumstances; when patients wish to achieve a more balanced body proportion, have unresolved body dysphoria, or during their gender transition as part of their gender affirming care.

Conditions For Eligibility

Before undergoing limb reduction surgery, patients must meet several medical and physical requirements to ensure safety and achieve the best possible results.

Growth Plates Must Be Closed

The most important condition is that the patient’s growth must be complete. This is confirmed by an X-ray scan of the legs showing closed growth plates. In most individuals, growth plates close between the ages of 18 and 20. Surgery is not advised to be performed before this stage.

General Health and Readiness

Patients must be in good overall health and prepared for both the surgery itself and the recovery process that follows. This includes both physical and psychological readiness.

Physical Requirements

Leg Anatomy: Especially with femoral shortening, the thigh bone must be suitable. After removing a segment of bone, muscle density in the area increases, so patients with thinner thighs are generally better candidates.
Upper Body Strength: During recovery, patients will rely on a walker and crutches, which requires strong arms and shoulders. We advise pre-surgery exercises* to reduce thigh muscle density and to strengthen the upper body.

Mental Preparation

The recovery process can be demanding. To support psychological readiness and additional emotional support, our patients are encouraged to contact our consultants to schedule online meeting sessions or work with a mental health professional.

Stages Of Limb Shortening Surgery Process

Consultation & Medical Examination

The process begins with a detailed consultation and a full medical evaluation. Radiological examinations, measurements, and blood tests are performed. The doctor explains the surgery in detail and evaluates both the physical and psychological readiness of the patient. If there are no medical obstacles, the surgery date is scheduled.

The Surgery

The procedure is carried out under general or spinal anesthesia, depending on the doctor’s recommendation and patient preference. A tourniquet is used to minimize blood loss.

During surgery:

The bone is cut (osteotomy) at the planned site.
A measured segment of bone is carefully removed.
An intramedullary nail is inserted into the bone canal.
The nail is fixed in place with interlocking screws for stability.

Expected Results:

Femur (thigh bone): up to 5–6cm reduction
Tibia (shin bone): up to 2–3 cm reduction
With combined femur and tibia surgeries, up to 8–9 cm reduction may be possible.

Although limb reduction can also be performed on the arms, leg surgeries are more common.

Hospital Stay

Patients usually remain in the hospital for about 5 days in a private room. During this period:

Two physiotherapy sessions are provided.
Patients learn the exercises required for recovery.
Dressings are changed, and post-operative care instructions are explained.

Recovery Process

After discharge, patients are encouraged to stay in Turkey for at least 2 months to receive regular physiotherapy and medical care.

Our patients’ recovery accommodation: World Point Hotel.

Mobility Support:
- Weeks 1–4: walker + wheelchair assistance
- Weeks 4–6: transition to crutches
- Week 6 onwards: gradual reduction to one crutch
- By 2–3 months: most patients can walk unaided
Physical Therapy:
- Daily exercises for stretching*, joint movement, and muscle strengthening are essential.
- Neglecting physiotherapy may cause stiffness, contractures, or imbalance.
Other Guidelines:
- Driving is usually possible after 2–4 months.
- Sports and high-impact activities are restricted until full bone healing.

Bone Healing: Typically 6–9 months, depending on individual recovery speed.

Nail Removal Surgery

Once full bone healing and consolidation are confirmed, the intramedullary nail is removed under general or local anesthesia. This is a simpler procedure compared to the initial surgery.

Possible Risks And Complications

Important Note: It is important to remember that no medical operation can ever be considered completely risk-free. To date, none of our patients have experienced any of these complications mentioned below, and our success rate has remained exceptionally high. Thanks to our experienced team and rigorous follow-up process, we continue to maintain these excellent outcomes.

Please be cautious with “no risks at all” claims, as that is simply not realistic.

Infection

One of the most significant risks associated with any surgical procedure, including height reduction surgery, is the possibility of developing an infection. Since implants or fixators are placed inside the bones, there is always a small chance of infection.

Prevention & Management: This risk can be minimized through strict sterilization during surgery, careful wound care, and prescribed antibiotics when necessary. Patients should follow all postoperative hygiene and medication instructions. As Height Reduction, we provide consistent medical dressing change service to our patients.

Muscle-Related Problems (Pain, Weakness & Stiffness

After height reduction surgery, patients may experience different types of muscle-related issues, such as pain, temporary weakness, or stiffness. These problems arise naturally due to the manipulation of soft tissues during surgery, reduced activity levels, and the body’s adjustment to its new biomechanics. If not managed properly, they can cause discomfort, limited mobility, and a slower recovery.

Prevention & Management:

At Height Reduction, we place great emphasis on postoperative rehabilitation to minimize muscle-related complications. Patients are guided through intensive physiotherapy sessions, where they receive:

Targeted pain management with prescribed medications and gentle stretching
Progressive strengthening exercises in physiotherapy sessions to restore muscle function
Mobility and flexibility training to prevent stiffness and support a smooth recovery

By combining these methods under a structured rehabilitation program, our team ensures that patients experience effective relief and regain their muscle strength and flexibility as quickly and safely as possible.

Nerve Pain

In rare cases, nerves close to the surgical site can be irritated or compressed, resulting in tingling, numbness, or sharp pain.

Prevention & Management: In the hands of an experienced surgeon, this risk is extremely minimalized. When it occurs, surgeons take care to protect nerves during the operation. If nerve pain occurs, medications, physiotherapy, and in some cases minor corrective procedures may be required.

Edema (Swelling)

Edema, or swelling, is a natural reaction of the body that can occur after surgical procedures, including height reduction surgery. Since the operation involves cutting and reshaping the bone (osteotomy) as well as manipulating the surrounding soft tissues, the body responds with inflammation and fluid accumulation in the treated area. While mild to moderate swelling is expected during the healing process, excessive edema may cause discomfort, restrict mobility, and potentially slow down recovery.

Prevention & Management:

At Height Reduction, edema is closely monitored and managed as part of our postoperative care program. Patients receive:

Leg elevation and proper positioning techniques to improve circulation and reduce fluid build-up
Compression garments to support tissues and minimize swelling
Cold therapy and physiotherapy interventions in the early recovery phase
Prescribed anti-inflammatory medications when necessary

By combining these methods, our team ensures that swelling is effectively controlled, healing progresses smoothly, and patients can return to daily mobility with greater comfort and confidence.

Nonunion or Slow Bone Union

The fractured bones must heal and fuse after the surgery. In some cases, healing may be delayed (delayed union) or not occur at all (nonunion), which can lead to persistent pain and limited mobility.

Prevention & Management: Ensuring good nutrition, following all rehabilitation protocols, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and attending regular check-ups help promote bone healing. If nonunion occurs, additional procedures or bone grafting can be performed to resolve the issue.

Contracture (Hip, Knee, and Ankle)

Contracture refers to the loss of range of motion or restriction of joint movement in certain directions. This occurs when the muscles, tendons, joint capsules, and ligaments surrounding the joint lose their elasticity due to prolonged immobilization, healing responses, or inadequate rehabilitation.

Prevention & Management:

The most effective way to prevent or reduce contractures is through consistent physiotherapy. A well-structured rehabilitation program helps maintain flexibility and joint health, significantly reducing the severity of movement limitations. However, if rehabilitation is neglected, contractures may become severe and, in rare cases, require additional surgical intervention.

Muscle Imbalance

After height reduction surgery, some patients may temporarily experience muscle imbalance, which can make walking and daily movements more difficult. This typically occurs due to uneven strength or flexibility between muscle groups as the body adapts to new biomechanics.

Prevention & Management:

With intensive and personalized physiotherapy sessions, patients can restore proper muscle coordination and regain their natural walking pattern. Strengthening weak muscles, stretching tight areas, and practicing balance exercises are key to preventing long-term complications.

Psychological Impact

Undergoing any surgical procedure can have psychological implications, and height reduction surgery is no exception. It is essential to acknowledge potential psychological effects, such as body image concerns, emotional distress, and adjustment challenges during the recovery phase. Professional counseling and continuous support can play an important role in helping patients prepare for and cope with these aspects.

As the world’s first height reduction facility, we provide our patients with comprehensive support at every stage of the journey. From medical guidance to psychological assistance, our team ensures that each patient feels safe, informed, and cared for throughout the entire process.