Internal vs External Limb Lengthening
Short answer
There are two families of lengthening methods:
• Internal methods (PRECICE, FITBONE) lengthen the bone from inside with a nail, so there are no frames and no pin sites.
• External methods (Ilizarov, LRS) use a frame outside the leg.
LON is a hybrid: it uses a frame for the lengthening and a nail for stability, so the frame comes off early. Internal methods are more comfortable. External and hybrid methods cost less.
The four methods at a glance
• PRECICE 2.2: type: internal · frame time: none · our package (hotel excl.): $56,000
• FITBONE: type: internal · frame time: none · our package (hotel excl.): $50,000
• LON: type: hybrid · frame time: lengthening phase only · our package (hotel excl.): $26,000
• Ilizarov / LRS: type: external · frame time: lengthening and consolidation · our package (hotel excl.): used only in medical (reconstructive) cases, not for cosmetic lengthening
Why most cosmetic patients no longer choose a frame-only method
With Ilizarov or LRS, the frame stays on until the bone hardens. That can take many months. Modern hybrid (LON) and internal methods shorten or remove that frame time, which lowers infection risk and makes daily life easier.
FAQ
Is external lengthening outdated?
Frames are still very useful in deformity correction and complex cases. For cosmetic height gain, LON and internal nails are the usual choice today.
Which method has the lowest infection risk?
Fully internal nails, because they have no pin sites.
Can I switch from LON to an internal nail later?
Not during the same lengthening. The method is chosen before surgery.