What Is Lon Method?
The LON method, also known as the Combined method, is a modern technique that maximizes patient comfort and accelerates the recovery process. By minimizing the duration of external fixators on the legs, this approach enables patients to recover in a shorter time. During the surgery, specially designed intramedullary nails are placed inside the bone, while external fixators are applied on the outside, ensuring the process proceeds safely and in a controlled manner.
Unlike traditional techniques such as Ilizarov or Holyfix, the external fixators in the LON method remain on the legs for only 2–3 months. This significantly reduces the risk of infection and allows patients to regain mobility much faster.
Its ease of application and cost-effectiveness make the LON method an ideal choice for many patients. With this technique, patients not only get rid of external fixators earlier but also adapt to their daily lives in a much shorter period.
External Fixators
The external fixator is a strong structure that provides external support to the bone during limb lengthening surgery. By holding the bone stable throughout the lengthening process, it ensures proper bone union. The device, made of thick metal rods, is attached to the bone with special pins, allowing the lengthening to proceed in a safe and controlled manner.
Placed during the surgery, the external fixator typically remains on the leg for 2–3 months until the desired height gain is achieved. During this period, it not only maintains the bone’s alignment but also supports the healthy progression of the lengthening process.
Intramedullar Nail
In limb lengthening surgeries, titanium nails are used as biocompatible implants that support the bone and ensure the lengthening process is carried out safely. During the surgical procedure, these nails are placed inside the bone canal, providing stability throughout the treatment.
The size of the nail is determined by the surgeon after reviewing X-ray images. Commonly used sizes are 8.5 mm, 10.7 mm, 11.5 mm, and 12.5 mm.
Thanks to their biocompatible nature, titanium nails do not damage body tissues or trigger negative reactions, ensuring a smooth and safe recovery process.
Who Are We? & What Do We Do?
Wanna Be Taller is recognized as the very first limb lengthening surgery center established in Turkey. Its founder, who has personally undergone two limb lengthening procedures, brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the journey patients go through. Our team works alongside a highly respected surgeon who has performed numerous successful surgeries in Turkey, dedicated to supporting individuals in living healthier, more confident lives free from unnecessary worries.
To ensure clear communication and accessibility, we provide online consultations where our surgeon offers detailed and personalized guidance. At Wanna Be Taller, we uphold the highest standards of medical care, closely monitoring each patient’s progress and tailoring our services according to their needs and feedback.
We are fully aware of the emotional challenges that may come with short stature and low self-esteem, and we deeply value the remarkable improvements in quality of life that occur when these concerns are addressed successfully.
Initial Examination and Evaluation
The initial examination involves a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, complaints, and current condition. Prior to surgery, the patient’s physical condition is assessed, tests are conducted, and necessary medical data is collected. The doctor informs the patient about the treatment process, risks, and expectations. This stage is crucial before making any decisions about treatment.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Pre-surgical preparation includes a series of procedures to ensure the patient’s body is ready for surgery. Anesthesia assessments are made, and the patient is instructed on what preparations need to be done and when. Additionally, the psychological readiness of the patient for the surgery is addressed. This stage is crucial to ensure the surgery is performed safely.
Surgery and Process
The surgery process involves performing the planned surgical procedure. The surgery is carried out by a specialized team, considering the patient’s specific condition. During the surgery, the patient’s condition is constantly monitored. Every stage is carefully checked, and the goal is to complete the surgery successfully.
Recovery and Aftercare
Post-surgery recovery is the body’s response to the surgical intervention. During this process, the doctor closely monitors the patient’s recovery and provides necessary care. Pain management, mobility, and overall health are monitored. Full recovery may take several weeks, but this process can vary from person to person.
Our Patients – Before & After
Services
At Wannabetaller®, our mission is to provide exceptional service at every stage of your limb lengthening journey. Post-operative accommodation is a vital component of the recovery process and requires just as much attention as the surgery itself. A comfortable environment significantly contributes to both your physical and psychological well-being.
During your stay, resting in a clean and comfortable setting accelerates healing and minimizes the risk of complications. In our partner hotels, your recovery is supported with rooms tailored to your needs, regular health check-ups, and physiotherapy services.
With our attentive staff, 24/7 medical support, and professional caregivers, we strive to create a home-like experience for you. Our accommodation options are designed not only to enhance your physical recovery but also to ensure your safety, comfort, and peace of mind throughout the entire treatment process.
Before undergoing limb lengthening surgery, patients need to prepare themselves both financially and psychologically. While financial matters can usually be managed more easily, mental preparation often requires more attention.
At Wannabetaller®, we provide psychological counseling with our specialist psychotherapist prior to surgery. The purpose of this service is to clarify patients’ post-surgery expectations and assess whether those expectations are realistic.
This support is not limited to the pre-operative stage; it also continues after surgery, as such a major operation may cause psychological challenges. Our goal is to guide you through every step of the journey, ensuring the process runs smoothly and safely.
If you are wondering what this insurance is for or how it may benefit you, it is the first health insurance designed specifically for international patients coming to Turkey for medical tourism. It covers the patient’s complication-related expenses in case any issues occur after surgery.
With this policy, both foreign patients and Turkish citizens living abroad are secured in the event that revision surgery becomes necessary due to complications after the initial procedure.
The hospital where you undergo limb lengthening surgery directly determines the quality of the procedure. That’s why, for your comfort and safety, we collaborate with one of the top hospitals in Turkey. Once your doctor confirms your eligibility, you are fully prepared for surgery.
You will be admitted for about 5 days to BHT Clinic Istanbul Tema Hospital, a facility recognized for its advanced technological infrastructure, hygienic surgical environments, and high-standard healthcare services.
It is worth noting that the Quality Management Systems of most private hospitals in Turkey are established in accordance with Joint Commission International (JCI) Accreditation Standards and the Ministry of Health Quality Standards in Health.
Even long before your arrival in Turkey, you have the opportunity to benefit from our free consultation service. You can reach us through Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and Viber to get detailed information about limb lengthening methods, pre- and post-surgery procedures, and our services.
We provide free consultations to our potential patients because we strongly believe that you deserve to know everything about limb lengthening before making a decision and moving forward with the process.
Physiotherapy is not only important during the limb lengthening process but also plays a vital role before surgery. Performing pre-operative exercises helps improve muscle flexibility and prepare the tendons, making the recovery phase after surgery smoother and more effective.
It is essential to know what type of documentation is required to enter Turkey. If you plan to stay for an extended period and your current visa does not allow it, our team can assist you in obtaining e-visas, regular visas, or residence permits.
We also recommend booking your flight ticket in advance to ensure you do not miss your scheduled surgery date, as tickets may sell out for that time.
Visitors requiring an entry visa must apply or schedule an appointment with a Turkish Consular office through the Pre-Application System for Turkish Sticker Visa (www.visa.gov.tr).
Applicants who meet the necessary requirements will be redirected to the e-Visa system (www.evisa.gov.tr) by the Pre-Application platform. In countries where Türkiye does not have a consular office, online scheduling is available for appointments with the nearest accredited Turkish consular office.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions about leg lengthening surgery for you. Here are the common queries and their detailed answers.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
In the LON Method, recovery is divided into two main phases: the lengthening phase and the healing phase. The lengthening phase depends on the desired height increase. For example, achieving 7 cm of height gain takes around 70 days, as the bone is lengthened at a rate of 1 mm per day. During this phase, external fixators stabilize the bones for controlled growth.
After the lengthening process, the external fixators are removed, and intramedullary nails remain in place to support the healing bones. Full recovery — including unassisted walking — usually takes 6–9 months, depending on the patient’s health and adherence to the rehabilitation program. Regular physiotherapy and doctor follow-ups are essential for successful results.
What Are the Possible Complications?
As with any surgery, the LON Method carries some risks, but these can be minimized with expert care and proper follow-up. Common complications include:
Infections around the external fixator pins,
Delayed bone healing,
Muscle stiffness during the lengthening phase.
These issues can be detected early and treated effectively through regular monitoring. Less common complications include nerve irritation or temporary numbness. Our experienced team provides comprehensive care with infection control, physiotherapy, and ongoing monitoring to reduce risks and ensure safe recovery.
How Much Height Can I Gain With the LON Method?
With the LON Method, patients can safely gain 6–10 cm in height, depending on individual factors such as bone structure and overall health. This amount is carefully planned during the pre-operative consultation to achieve optimal results without overstraining the body.
For example, 7 cm of height increase typically takes about 70 days of lengthening. Your surgeon will guide you throughout the process, considering your health, personal preferences, and the natural limits of your bones. For patients desiring greater height, additional surgeries may be considered as part of a long-term plan.
Press Coverage
Leg-Lengthening Surgery Changed My Life
Leg-lengthening surgery changed more than Ibrahim Alğan’s height: It inspired him to quit his job, and he says he gets more compliments now.
Inside the World of Limb-Lengthening Surgery
There seems to be an implicit, unstated sense that when short people do achieve high-status positions they’re still deemed to lack the ‘natural authority’ to wield real power.
“They bullied me because of my height”
To grow a few centimeters, people are going to have surgery in Turkey. This surgeon is about to fulfill his patients’ dream, and perhaps that of many of us — to grow taller. Ibrahim Algan, a former psychologist who is 1.61 m tall, founded this company after he himself grew 12 cm.
Would you have your legs broken to make yourself taller?
A 32-year-old American, wanted to extend all four leg bones to go from 5ft 8in to 6ft.
Everyone was making fun of him for being short!
He grew 1 mm every day, and his final state surprised everyone…
Leg-lengthening surgery changed my life.
Would you have your legs broken to make yourself taller? The men who go through hell for a little extra height
Turkey has made a difference in health tourism
Turkey has outpaced others in health tourism, leading with a turnover of 3 billion dollars, where hair transplantation is at the forefront. In the last 2 years, the most sought-after operation was limb-lengthening, with people coming from the USA and Japan to have their height increased.
Limb Lengthening Surgery Success Stories
