Surgeons use a medical procedure known as limb lengthening surgery to lengthen the bones of the arms or legs. As the name implies, this medical procedure fixes problems that arise due to limb damage or underdeveloped limbs that may be genetic or other such abnormal conditions. This medical procedure also improves the patient’s height proportions, balances their walk, and addresses appearance issues. In this blog, we provide a brief look at the limb lengthening surgery cost in India. We also look at the factors that affect the cost and the reasons that make this surgery a preferred choice in India.
On average, this medical procedure in India costs between INR 1,50,000 and INR 8,50,000 (approximately USD 2,000 to 10,000) depending on several factors. With the advancement in medical science and affordable healthcare, India has become a popular destination for limb lengthening surgery.
Cost of Limb Lengthening Surgery in India
This procedure helps to stretch and straighten broken bones caused by accidents or birth abnormalities. Although this medical procedure is available to everyone, it is most commonly performed on people aged 18 to 50 years. A high success rate of around 95% makes this treatment a reliable option for those suffering from severe limb abnormalities. Several factors decide the cost that including:
- Type of hospital or clinic, if it is government, private, or aided
- Surgeon’s level of experience
- Patient’s health
Patients can anticipate paying anywhere from Rs. 1. 5 lakh to Rs. 8. 5 lakh, or USD 2,000 to 10,000, on average. The cost of treatment in private hospitals in urban regions can vary between Rs. 5.0 lakh and 10.0 lakh. However, it may not cover extra expenses such as drugs, follow-up appointments, and therapies all of which are necessary for a complete recovery.
The most common type, i.e., Ilizarov procedure, uses an external implant to gradually grow the bone. Even though being efficient, this method entails a lengthy recovery period and intensive postoperative care. More modern procedures, such as the Precice nail system, are less intrusive and enable internal extension via changeable implants. As technology advances and requires skill, these options are becoming more expensive.
Cost Breakup of the Surgery
Here’s a typical breakdown of the cost for limb lengthening surgery in India:
| Services | Approx. Cost (INR) |
| Pre-surgery consultation, including diagnosis | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Hospital stay (5–7 days) | 70,000 – 80,000 |
| Surgical procedure | 4,00,000 – 7,00,000 |
| Implant/Device (PRECICE, etc.) | 2,00,000 – 5,00,000 |
| Medications & follow-ups | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Post-operative physiotherapy (3-6 months) | 50,000 – 1,00,000 |
Cost Factors Related to this Medical Procedure
This medical procedure’s cost is associated with:
- Type of implant: External fixator or internal magnetic nails impact the cost. Internal fixation instruments like the PRECICE nails are high in quality and made from robust materials like titanium alloy are typically more expensive.
- Patient’s condition: Overall health and a comorbidity condition can complicate the medical procedure. And this adds to the associated cost.
- Length to be achieved: More lengthening of the limbs requires longer treatment and higher costs.
- Hospital & surgeon fees: Premium hospitals in metros may charge more.
- After surgery, healthcare professionals recommend various therapies to promote a quick recovery. These therapies are usually 12 weeks or more, depending upon the individual’s health and condition.
For whom is Limb Lengthening Surgery a Good Option?
A surgeon has to take into consideration a number of things that determine whether or not limb lengthening is a good option for the patient:
- Stability of the limb: As the bone lengthening is a slow process, it needs strong joints on both ends. Otherwise joint issues could arise from lengthening.
- Tissue health: Any harm to the surrounding tissues puts the elongation limb at risk for additional injury.
- Patient age: In childhood and the early years of adulthood, when the body is most likely to produce new bone, limb lengthening is best performed though it is occasionally performed on elderly patients.
- Length dissimilarity between limbs: Leg lengthening is only recommended when the limb-length disparity interferes with the person’s ability to perform daily tasks.
- Capacity to meet limb lengthening requirements: Throughout the long and intricate process of limb lengthening, the patient must be watchful each day. He or she must keep covering the limb for several months after the lengthening phase is finished in order to give the soft tissues and bone time to heal.
Risk of Health Problems Post Surgery
This medical procedure is done for medical as well as cosmetic reasons. Outcomes and complications can vary depending on the type of surgery. Some risks that are of concern include:
- Insufficient lengthening of the bone
- Muscle or nerve damage
- Joint dislocation
- Injury to the blood vessel
- Tightness in the muscles
What Makes Patients Choose India for Limb Lengthening Surgery?
In India, this medical procedure is still less expensive than in the US or Europe. If you opt for this medical procedure in India, you are likely to decrease your overall expenses by nearly 30 to 40%. Surgery is still a significant financial commitment even when it is affordable, and is reckoned as the last option. The factors that make patients choose India for this surgery include:
- Hospitals are equipped with modern devices like PRECICE nail systems.
- The cost is up to 70% lower than in Western countries.
- India has highly experienced orthopedic specialists with global training.
Many foreigners choose India as a desirable location for limb-lengthening surgery due to its affordable price. As the surgery is prohibitively expensive, one will have to think twice before going ahead with the procedure. A health insurance policy is likely to lessen the financial burden for a common man to restore normal limb function.
Conclusion
In this article, we have made you familiar with the limb lengthening surgery cost in India and the various factors that affect its cost. India is a good geographic location for this procedure that strictly adheres to international standards, provides high-quality care, and is within the reach of a common man.
Patients with the consultation of an expert healthcare provider can make wise and informed decisions regarding this life-altering procedure if they have a clear understanding of the overall cost, breakdown cost, and the associated factors. Whether for medical correction or cosmetic enhancement India remains the top destination for this life-changing procedure.