Limb lengthening surgery involves lengthening bones in the arms or legs. This is done using a device, which pulls the bone segments apart, allowing new bone to form in the gap.

If you are looking for the cost for the limb lengthening surgery in India, then this blog is perfect for you.

Karetrip is here for you to provide the details of the cost for a limb lengthening surgery in India so that your journey becomes simple.

When do you need a limb lengthening process?

The process can correct discrepancies in limb length, improve height, or address congenital or trauma-induced deformities. Following are a few reasons when the process is really needed.

• Correction of limb length discrepancies.
• Treatment of dwarfism.
• Cosmetic height increase.
• Repair of bone damage due to fractures or infections.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Limb Lengthening Surgery

The cost can vary significantly based on the hospital or clinic where the surgery is performed. Renowned hospitals with advanced facilities, international accreditations, and a reputation for high standards of care will charge more.

Smaller clinics may offer lower prices but may not provide the same level of care. The surgeon's experience, reputation, and specialization in limb lengthening procedures play an important role in determining the cost.

The geographical location of the hospital also affects the cost. Hospitals in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai generally charge more compared to those in smaller cities or towns. The higher cost of living and operational expenses in major cities contribute to the increased costs.

Diagnostic tests, consultations, and follow-up appointments, adds to the total cost. There may be physical therapy and rehabilitation needed for good recovery, which may also add to the total cost.

The length of the hospital stay can affect the cost, such as longer stays result in higher room charges, nursing care costs, and additional medical services. Costs for medications, implants, and other medical supplies required during and after the surgery add to the overall cost. Advanced materials and specialised medications may be costlier.

Average Cost of Limb Lengthening Surgery in India

The cost of limb lengthening surgery in India can be different depending on the places. Following are the average costs in India.

• Delhi: ₹7,00,000 to ₹15,00,000
• Mumbai: ₹8,00,000 to ₹16,00,000
• Bangalore: ₹6,50,000 to ₹14,00,000
• Chennai: ₹6,00,000 to ₹13,00,000

Major metropolitan areas have higher living costs, which demands higher hospital and surgical fees. Cities with advanced medical infrastructure and technology may charge more for their services. Experienced and renowned surgeons in big cities may ask for higher fees.

Limb lengthening surgery in India is usually more affordable compared to other countries. The comparison can be given as follows.

• United States: ₹25,00,000 to ₹40,00,000
• United Kingdom: ₹20,00,000 to ₹35,00,000
• Australia: ₹22,00,000 to ₹38,00,000

Cost Breakdown

Before the surgery, several consultations and diagnostic tests are required to assess the patient's condition and plan the procedure. Following is the breakdown of the costs.

• Initial Consultations: ₹2,000 to ₹10,000
• Diagnostic Tests: ₹8,000 to ₹40,000

1. X-rays: ₹1,000 to ₹5,000
2. MRI Scans: ₹5,000 to ₹20,000
3. Blood Tests: ₹2,000 to ₹10,000
4. Other Tests: ₹1,000 to ₹5,000

• Surgeon's Fees: ₹2,50,000 to ₹6,00,000 1.Includes the fees for the primary surgeon and any assisting surgeons.
• Anaesthetist's Charges: ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 1.Fees for the anaesthetist who will administer and monitor anaesthesia during the surgery.
• Operation Theatre Costs: ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,00,000 1.Charges for using the operation theatre, including the equipment and staff involved.

There are hospital charges also such as accommodation, nursing care, and other hospital services etc.

• Room Charges: ₹1,50,000 to ₹4,00,000
• Nursing Care: ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000
• Other Hospital Services: ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000

Then there may be medication charges of about ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. After the surgery, patients may need a physical therapy, which costs around ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 and a follow-up which costs ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000.

Insurance and Financing Options

Health insurance can reduce the financial burden of limb lengthening surgery. This coverage varies depending on the insurance provider and the policy.

If the surgery is really necessary such as correcting limb length discrepancies, or congenital deformities, many health insurance policies may cover a major portion of the costs. If the surgery is for cosmetic purposes such as height increase for aesthetic reasons, it is usually not covered by standard health insurance plans.

Some policies may exclude certain elements such as cosmetic procedures, experimental techniques, or specific types of implants and devices. Insurance companies often require pre-authorization for the selected surgeries. Detailed medical documentation and justification for the procedure are needed to approve coverage.

There are various other options also if it is not covered by insurance companies such as equated monthly instalments (EMI), medical credit cards, in-house financing etc.

Additional Considerations

Limb lengthening surgery has some risks and complications. Infections can occur at the surgical site or around the implanted devices. The nerves may also get damaged, which can lead to numbness, or weakness in the affected limb. Post-surgical immobility can increase the risk of blood clots, which can be life-threatening.

The bones may take longer to heal. Long immobilization can develop joint stiffness. Patients may experience some pain and discomfort during and after the lengthening process.

Sometimes additional surgeries may be needed if there are Issues with the external or internal devices, such as loosening, or malfunctioning. Regular physical therapy sessions are important for regaining strength, mobility, and function in the affected limb.