Height is often one of the factors that people pay most attention to in their physical appearance. While some of us dream of being tall, some of us think that we are very tall and therefore different from our peers. Although this situation may seem strange, especially to people who are short, being taller than necessary can actually be quite challenging. If you are one of those who think you are too tall and therefore decided to undergo height reduction surgery, we can say that it is necessary for you to do detailed research.
In this article, we answered frequently asked questions for those considering height reduction surgery. If you are wondering about 5 common questions about height reduction surgery, you can review the rest of our article. Also, you can also reach more detail on the subject from our article: "What is height reduction surgery?"
Can you get your height reduced?
Yes, it is possible to get your height reduced. However, for this, you must have height reduction surgery, and whether you are suitable for this surgery is determined by the doctor after the necessary examination and tests. During this process, factors such as your general health condition, age, chronic diseases, blood results and bone health are evaluated.
Height reduction surgery is a surgical intervention performed for people who think they are tall or have a medical condition. The aim of this surgery is to perform the operation in a way that does not negatively affect people's health and daily lives and for the patient to complete this process in a healthy way.
Is Height Reduction Surgery Safe?
As with every surgery, there are possible risks of complications in height reduction surgery. However, if we need to give an answer by evaluating this surgery with its general features, we can say; It is very important that you proceed with an experienced and successful doctor in your field before having this surgery. After your general health examination, your doctor decides whether you are suitable for surgery. If this surgery will not be safe for you, your doctor will share this with you beforehand. However, if the doctor makes a positive evaluation as a result of your check-ups, the surgery will not pose a problem for you. However, you should not forget that, as we mentioned above, every surgery has a risk of complications. For this reason, you should not consider the surgery one-sidedly and always consider the recovery process afterwards.
If we need to explain this situation a little more specifically, we can say that height reduction surgery requires a relatively long and difficult recovery process compared to many other types of surgery. After the surgery, patients must stay close to the doctor for at least 2-3 months and complete their physiotherapy with their physiotherapist during this period. Additionally, attention should be paid to the hygiene and dressing of the injured areas of the patients. If these factors we mentioned are not taken into consideration, complications may occur in the patient. In short, if you are concerned about whether this surgery is safe or not, you should follow your doctor's instructions carefully and not disrupt any process.
What are the complications after height reduction surgery?
The decision to pursue height reduction surgery should be thoroughly discussed with medical professionals, and potential risks should be considered. Some potential complications may include:
Infection: Infections can occur at the surgical site, leading to complications. Proper postoperative care and antibiotic treatments are crucial in preventing and managing infections.
Psychological Impact: Height reduction surgery can have a significant psychological impact. Individuals may experience emotional distress, depression, or anxiety related to body image and the decision to undergo the procedure.
Delayed Healing: The bones that are shortened need to heal properly. Factors such as poor bone quality, smoking, or underlying health issues can contribute to delayed or impaired healing.
Joint Stiffness and Pain: After height reduction surgery, individuals may experience joint stiffness and pain. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are often required to regain mobility and reduce discomfort.
Is There An Age Limit for Height Reduction Surgery?
Minimum Age Requirement for Height Reduction Surgery:
Using the puberty period as a reference, it is advised that individuals who have not completed puberty should refrain from undergoing height reduction surgery. While the conclusion of puberty varies among individuals, it generally falls within the age range of 18-21. Once you have passed this age range, consulting with your doctor to determine whether your growth plates have closed is recommended. Necessary tests and examinations can help determine your suitability for the surgery.
Maximum Age Limit for Height Reduction Surgery:
Our medical professionals recommend a maximum age limit of 50-55 years for height reduction surgery. The primary reason for this recommendation is the reduction in collagen production by bones after the age of 50. Collagen, a protein crucial for cartilage production and bone health, becomes less abundant. The diminished collagen production can complicate the post-operative bone healing process. Therefore, our doctors emphasize the importance of undergoing surgery within an appropriate age range for a healthier healing process.
Can you play sports after height surgery?
The answer to this question may vary from person to person. Performing physiotherapy regularly after the surgery will also help you return to your daily life more easily. However, your doctor will make the best decision about returning to your sports routine. At this point, your bone health, physical therapy process and post-operative complications are decisive. Therefore, it is not possible to give a very specific time period, but we should also point out that if you proceed with your post-operative treatments without interruption, it will be possible for you to return to your sports life gradually.
If you have any other questions about height reduction surgery, you can directly contact our patient representatives or get information from our patient who has experienced the process firsthand in our interview video below.