Surgery to increase height, also known as limb lengthening surgery, carries several potential side effects. These can range from minor discomfort to serious complications that may require further interventions.
Common side effects include:
- Pain: Limb lengthening surgery is a painful procedure, and you'll likely need to take pain medication for an extended period after the surgery.
- Nerve damage: This can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lengthened limb.
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
- Muscle damage: The stretching of muscles and soft tissues during the lengthening process can cause muscle damage and stiffness.
- Joint contracture: The prolonged immobility during recovery can lead to joint contracture, limiting the range of motion in the affected limb.
- Delayed bone healing: The bone may not heal properly, leading to a need for additional surgery.
- Dislocations: The lengthened bone may be more prone to dislocations, especially during the initial healing period.
- Arthritis: Long-term effects of the surgery can include osteoarthritis in the joints of the lengthened limb.
- Blood clots: There is a risk of developing blood clots in the legs or lungs after surgery.
- Psychological effects: Some individuals may experience psychological distress related to the long recovery process and the potential for complications.
It is important to note that these are just some of the potential side effects of limb lengthening surgery. The specific risks and complications will vary depending on the individual patient and the type of surgery performed.
