"This is not a procedure to be taken lightly"
"Do not risk your life for longer legs"
As public interest in cosmetic leg lengthening surgery surges, British health authorities have issued a warning about the dangers of the procedure.
On September 9, Yonhap News reported, citing The Guardian, that the UK National Health Service (NHS) has cautioned against undergoing leg lengthening surgery. The NHS warned that the procedure carries risks of severe pain, infection, nerve damage, and disability, strongly advising people not to undergo the surgery.
Leg lengthening surgery involves deliberately breaking the leg bone and gradually separating it over several weeks to months, allowing new bone to grow in the gap. The procedure consists of two main stages. First, a surgeon performs an osteotomy, cutting the shin or thigh bone into two segments, then attaches an extension device to stabilize the bone fragments.
The traditional method uses a thin metal frame fixed to the outside of the leg, which makes wearing clothes difficult. The latest technique involves inserting a screw-shaped device with a built-in motor or magnet inside the bone, allowing for remote control.
After surgery, patients must recover without walking for several weeks. For the next five to seven months, they adjust the device multiple times daily, gradually increasing the gap between the bones by up to 1 mm per day. During this process, new bone grows to fill the space.
The NHS has warned that the procedure is highly risky if not performed with extreme care. Patients must endure intense pain during months of treatment. If the bones are separated too quickly, they may not heal properly or may grow back too weak to support body weight.
A scene from the movie 'Materialist.' Harry, a finance industry worker with a much shorter height (played by Pedro Pascal), invested 277 million won in surgery to increase his height by 15 cm. Sony Pictures
There is also a risk of uneven leg length, infection, nerve damage, blood clots, and even permanent disability.
Tim Briggs, an orthopedic surgeon and NHS National Clinical Director for Clinical Improvement and Elective Recovery, stated, "Do not gamble with your health or life just to gain a few extra inches." He added that for those considering traveling to countries like Turkey for cheaper surgery, "It is extremely dangerous to decide on surgery without fully understanding the recovery process and risks."
China completely banned cosmetic leg lengthening surgery in 2006 after an increase in cases of deformities caused by surgical complications. However, demand continues to rise in other regions. According to one study, the global market for limb lengthening procedures is expected to reach $8.6 billion (about 11.9247 trillion won) by 2030.
Despite numerous concerns, the surgery remains highly popular. In fact, the recently released romance film 'Materialist,' directed by Celine Song, features the procedure as a way for a character to increase his value in the marriage market.
The Guardian also reported that hospitals in Turkiye are actively promoting this surgery.
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