Am I a Candidate for Limb Lengthening?
Short answer
You may be a good candidate if all of the following are true:
• your growth plates are closed (usually from about 18),
• you are in good general health,
• you do not smoke, or you can stop before and during treatment,
• you have realistic expectations,
• you can commit to about 3 months in Istanbul and months of physiotherapy.
The final decision is made by the surgeon after X-rays and an examination.
Usually suitable
• Adults with closed growth plates
• Healthy bone density
• Normal weight, or a weight that can be managed
• No active infections
• Stable mental health and realistic goals
Usually not suitable, or needs extra assessment
• Open growth plates (teenagers still growing)
• Smokers who cannot stop. Nicotine slows bone healing.
• Uncontrolled diabetes, osteoporosis or bleeding disorders
• Severe obesity
• Untreated depression or body dysmorphic disorder
Psychological assessment
Height concerns are real, and many of our patients have lived with them for years. See Height Dysphoria. During the consultation, the doctor assesses whether surgery is the right answer for you. A psychologist's report is not mandatory, but the doctor may ask for one if your health history or the consultation suggests it.
Free pre-assessment
Send us the following on WhatsApp for a free first opinion:
• your height
• your weight
• your age
• any medical conditions
• a full-length standing photo
FAQ
Is there a minimum height to qualify?
No. Candidacy depends on health and expectations, not on how short you are.
Can I have limb lengthening if I smoke?
You must stop smoking well before surgery and through bone healing.
Do I need a psychologist's report?
Not as a rule. The doctor may request one during the consultation, depending on your health history and how the conversation goes.
Related pages
• How much taller can limb lengthening make you?