Famous Model Undergoes Surgery to Lengthen Legs
Worst Side Effect: 'Loss of Leg Function'
A famous German female model has shocked the public by confessing that she underwent the height-increasing surgery called 'limb lengthening surgery' twice.
On the 10th (local time), the New York Post reported that German female model Terezia Fischer (31) recently appeared on the German version of the reality show 'Celebrity Big Brother' and admitted to having undergone limb lengthening surgery twice.
Before and after photos of a female model who underwent 'limb lengthening surgery' twice. [Photo by Terezia Fischer Instagram]
Fischer said she spent $124,000 (164 million KRW) on the surgery alone, and including physical therapy and medication costs, she spent $160,000 (212 million KRW).
She explained, "With two surgeries, my height increased from 169cm to 183cm, and especially my legs grew 14cm longer." She proudly said, "After the surgery, I became famous for my long legs. I received more modeling offers, got a new boyfriend, and my followers increased."
However, Fischer lamented, "I am now satisfied and happy with my legs, but malicious comments continue on the internet." Fans are concerned that Fischer's legs look disproportionately long compared to her body, making her overall appearance unbalanced, and they argue that such surgery should not be encouraged.
Limb Deformity Treatment Surgery Used for Cosmetic Purposes
Before and after photos of a female model who underwent 'limb lengthening surgery' twice. [Photo by Terezia Fischer Instagram]
Limb lengthening surgery is a procedure that artificially increases the length of the arms and legs. It was originally designed to treat patients with congenital or acquired limb deformities but has evolved for cosmetic purposes. It has become a kind of plastic surgery to overcome height complexes.
The surgery utilizes the principle that new bone forms when a bone is broken. The calf or thigh bone is surgically cut, a metal rod is inserted, and a mechanical device is connected to gradually lengthen the bone. The process stops once the desired length is achieved, and rehabilitation is conducted to fully harden the bone.
The lengthening process is very painful. After the treatment is completed, rehabilitation takes another 1 to 2 months. Generally, it takes about a year to walk naturally again.
Later, a separate surgery is required to remove the fixation device. Experts advise caution with the surgery because, in the worst cases, patients may not be able to walk.
Since the surgery involves manipulating bones, there are many side effects. Complications from limb lengthening occur because the soft tissues do not stretch as much as the bone lengthens. Soft tissues include nerves, muscles, blood vessels, and joints. Specific complications include nerve paralysis, muscle contracture, vascular occlusion, and joint movement restrictions.
Moreover, since not only bones but also ligaments, skin, nerves, and blood vessels are stretched as if torn, it is impossible to restore the original state after surgery due to side effects.
Meanwhile, China banned cosmetic height-increasing surgeries in 2006. This measure was reportedly taken as the number of people exposed to side effects after surgery increased.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
