Complications and Risks of Height Reduction Surgery

Height reduction surgery, also known as limb shortening surgery, has been performed for a long time for people who experience leg discrepancies, however, it has gained significant attention in recent years as a cosmetic procedure aimed at altering one's height and proportions. While some individuals may consider it as a solution to their height-related concerns, it is essential to be well-informed about the potential complications and risks associated with this procedure. Like every medical operation, there are some risks involved, although they can be fixed or overall prevented easily if they are detected early on and performed by a experienced team. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the intricacies of height reduction surgery, highlighting the risks and complications that individuals should be aware of while deciding for such procedure.

Understanding Height Reduction Surgery

Height reduction surgery is a surgical procedure designed to decrease a person's overall limb length. It involves the careful shortening of the bones in the limbs, as for the legs such as the femur and/or tibia. The bone is cut at the most suitable point, where blood supply is strongest, and the excess segment is removed. The cut bone ends are then joined and fixed in place with an intramedullary nail inserted into the center of the bone. Since the surgery is performed entirely inside the leg, there are no major external scars or visible devices. Now, let's dive into the risks of this surgery.

Possible Risks and Complications of Height Reduction Surgery

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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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. For further insight, you can also watch our patient consultant’s YouTube video, where the procedure and its outcomes are explained in more detail.