Should I Consider Surgery for O-Shaped Calves to Increase Height?

The bones in my calves are growing unevenly, and I want to increase my height?

I am 15-16 years old, female, and my height is 147-148 cm.
I feel that my calves have an O-shape, so my family took me to see an orthopedic doctor.
He said that the inner side of my calf bones is developing more slowly, while the outer side is developing faster, which causes the O-shape in my calves.
The doctor mentioned that I could go to a hospital in the northern part of the country to undergo surgery, which involves placing a support on the inner side of my calves.
However, my mom initially found it quite frightening and thought it was unnecessary.
Now that I am about to enter high school, I am concerned about my height being so short.
If I undergo that surgery, is there a chance it could increase my height? Additionally, this year I twisted my ankle and went to the orthopedic doctor again, who mentioned that my growth plates have not completely closed yet and that I still have some potential for height growth.
However, he said I could only grow 1-2 cm more, so my maximum height might only be 150 cm? 😭 Should I consider having that surgery? What is the approximate cost of the surgery? Where can it be done? Are there any risks involved?

147, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/03

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics

Hello, from your article, the main concerns are height and the O-shaped issue.
Generally, if the lateral growth plate of the proximal tibia grows faster, it can indeed lead to the phenomenon you mentioned.
In your case, if conservative treatment does not yield satisfactory results, management options include controlling the speed of the lateral growth plate or waiting for the growth plate to close, followed by a high tibial osteotomy (support) on the medial side, among other methods.
Each surgical option carries potential risks, and a more accurate assessment of your condition is necessary to provide you with sound advice.
If needed, you are welcome to visit the clinic for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2021/06/03

More Info

When considering surgery for O-shaped calves, particularly in the context of height increase, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and limitations associated with the procedure. O-shaped legs, or genu varum, can result from uneven growth of the tibia, leading to a misalignment that may affect both aesthetics and function.

Understanding the Condition
Your situation involves a developmental discrepancy in the growth of the inner and outer sides of your lower legs. This can lead to the characteristic O-shape, which not only affects your appearance but can also contribute to discomfort or pain in the knees and other joints due to altered biomechanics.

Surgical Options
The surgical procedure your doctor mentioned likely involves a high tibial osteotomy (HTO) or a similar corrective surgery. This procedure aims to realign the bones to improve function and potentially enhance the appearance of your legs. However, it's crucial to understand that while surgery can correct the alignment, it may not significantly increase your height.

Potential for Height Increase
Regarding height, if your growth plates are still open, there may be a small chance for additional growth. However, as your doctor indicated, this could be limited to just a couple of centimeters. Surgical interventions like HTO are primarily focused on correcting alignment rather than promoting growth. Therefore, if your primary goal is to increase height, surgery may not be the most effective solution.

Risks and Considerations
Every surgical procedure carries risks, including infection, nerve damage, and complications related to anesthesia. Additionally, recovery from an osteotomy can be lengthy, often requiring several months of rehabilitation. During this time, you may need to limit physical activities, which could affect your lifestyle, especially if you are active in sports.

Costs and Availability
The cost of such surgeries can vary significantly depending on the hospital and the complexity of the procedure. In many cases, it can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. It's advisable to consult with multiple orthopedic specialists to get a clearer picture of the costs involved and the specific techniques they use.

Recommendations
1. Consultation: Seek a second opinion from another orthopedic surgeon who specializes in limb deformities. They can provide insights into the potential outcomes of surgery and whether it aligns with your goals.

2. Non-Surgical Options: Before committing to surgery, consider exploring non-surgical options such as physical therapy, which may help improve muscle strength and alignment without the risks associated with surgery.

3. Psychological Impact: It's also important to address the psychological aspects of your condition. If the appearance of your legs is causing significant distress, discussing these feelings with a counselor or psychologist may be beneficial.

4. Long-Term Considerations: Think about the long-term implications of surgery, including the potential need for further interventions in the future and how it may affect your overall mobility and quality of life.

In conclusion, while surgery may offer some benefits in terms of alignment and aesthetics, it is unlikely to provide a significant increase in height. Careful consideration of the risks, costs, and potential outcomes is essential before making a decision. Consulting with experienced orthopedic specialists and considering all available options will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your health and personal goals.

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