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Orthopaedics & Traumatology · Antalya, Turkey

Limb Length & Alignment

Limb Shortening in Turkey

Discuss limb shortening with Dr. Mesut Sançmış, an orthopaedics and traumatology specialist in Antalya. Understand the procedure, its limitations and the recovery it requires.

Results

Before & After Results

Videos

Limb Lengthening Videos

Short videos from MSM Klinik: Dr. Sançmış explains limb lengthening methods and suitability, with one patient result.

Which Limb Lengthening Methods Are Used?Methods and how the decision is made
FITBONE, PRECICE 2 or LON MethodLengthening methods
Who Is a Candidate for Limb Lengthening?Candidacy
What Is Limb Lengthening Surgery?The basics
Leg Lengthening Result: +5.5 cm Height GainPatient result

Videos from MSM Klinik's YouTube channel. Results vary between patients.

What Is Limb Shortening?

Limb shortening reduces the length of a bone through an operation called a shortening osteotomy. A measured section of bone is removed, and the remaining ends are brought together and secured while they heal.

The procedure can address a difference between leg lengths. It may also be considered for elective height reduction, although these are different treatment goals.

Unlike limb lengthening, shortening does not involve gradually separating the bone over several weeks. The change in length occurs during surgery, but bone healing and rehabilitation still take time.

Height Reduction and Leg Length Correction

Correcting Unequal Leg Lengths

When one leg is longer than the other, shortening the longer side may help reduce the difference. Assessment identifies the size and cause of the discrepancy before comparing shortening with other options, such as a shoe lift or lengthening the shorter leg.

A small difference does not automatically require surgery.

Elective Height Reduction

Height reduction involves planning across both legs rather than correcting one longer limb. It changes leg length relative to the rest of the body, so proportions and muscle function matter alongside the requested reduction.

Being tall does not itself require treatment. An elective decision should consider expectations, potential functional consequences and the option not to have surgery.

Assessment Before Limb Shortening

Assessment includes a discussion of your goals, medical history, previous operations and current symptoms. Examination considers how you stand and walk, joint movement and the relationship between the two legs.

Imaging helps measure bone lengths and plan the location of the correction. The femur, or thigh bone, and tibia, or shin bone, require different surgical considerations.

General health and factors that affect bone healing are also reviewed. Tell the surgeon about smoking, medications and existing medical conditions. A preferred final height is not enough to determine whether surgery is appropriate.

How Limb Shortening Surgery Works

Planning the Correction

The surgeon selects the bone, the amount of shortening and the method of fixation. For unequal legs, this decision is guided by the measured discrepancy; for height reduction, both sides require coordinated planning.

The amount removed must respect the surrounding muscles and other tissues.

Shortening and Fixation

Surgery is performed under anaesthesia. After removing the planned bone segment, the surgeon aligns the remaining ends and stabilises them with an internal rod or a plate and screws.

This fixation holds the correction while the bone joins. It does not make the operated leg immediately ready for unrestricted activity.

Early Recovery

Initial care addresses pain, wound healing and safe movement. You receive instructions on how much weight you may place through the leg and whether crutches or other mobility support are needed.

Recovery After Limb Shortening

Recovery involves both bone healing and rebuilding function. Muscle weakness can occur after shortening, making rehabilitation an important part of treatment.

Physiotherapy works on movement, strength and walking within the restrictions set by the surgical team. Follow-up assessments monitor the healing bone and help determine when activity can increase.

An improving wound or reduced pain does not necessarily mean the bone has fully healed. Return to work, driving and sport requires separate consideration of your mobility and the demands of each activity.

The expected recovery schedule should be discussed before surgery, including arrangements if progress is slower than anticipated.

Risks and Limitations

Limb shortening carries risks including infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve or blood vessel injury, persistent pain and joint stiffness. The bone may heal slowly, fail to unite or heal in an unintended position.

Shortening also changes how the muscles function. Excessive reduction can cause weakness, and some patients may experience lasting functional limitations.

Complications may require further treatment or another operation. A technically achievable reduction is not necessarily an appropriate target, and neither a specific final height nor an unrestricted return to sport can be guaranteed.

Limb Shortening Cost in Turkey

An estimate should reflect the proposed operation rather than a price per centimetre. Ask whether the quotation covers one or both legs and which hospital, implant and rehabilitation services it includes.

Request separate clarification of imaging, medication, follow-up appointments and any possible implant removal. Accommodation and transport should be identified as included or separately charged.

Before making a payment, check the cancellation terms and the arrangements for unexpected treatment or an extended stay.

Request a Quote

Planning Your Stay in Antalya

Plan your visit around clinical appointments and the support you may need after surgery. Discuss accommodation accessibility, transport with mobility aids and whether someone should accompany you.

Before returning home, agree how physiotherapy, imaging and follow-up will continue. Obtain written instructions and contact details for concerns, including where to seek urgent assessment locally.

Ask the surgical team when travel is appropriate rather than choosing a departure date based only on the planned hospital discharge.

Ask About Accommodation

This information does not replace an individual medical consultation. Treatment suitability and outcomes vary between patients.

Reviews

What Patients Say

Read reviews of Dr. Sançmış and MSM Klinik on Google, WhatClinic and Trustpilot.

Google

I wish to take this opportunity to thank Dr Mesut Sançmış for his kind, caring and professional approach to my long term medical issues. He very efficiently examined, tested and diagnosed my medical issues and offered treatment of arthroscopic knee surgery for the following day.

The surgery was an absolute success with my original pain now gone and the procedure stiffness subsiding daily. I can already walk and sleep better and my quality of life is improving. The constant pain etched on my face and in my daily life has gone and I can never thank him enough. He is a true gentleman and 5 star surgeon.

TTheresa Glasgow
Trustpilot

From the very beginning, I felt that I was in good hands with Dr. Mesut Sançmis . The consultation was clear, supportive, and reassuring, which made me feel confident about moving forward. Throughout the treatment, Dr. Mesut Sançmis showed great care and professionalism, always making sure I was comfortable and informed.

The results have exceeded my expectations — my feet not only look better, but I feel more confident and at ease in my daily life. It has truly been a positive change for me, both physically and emotionally.

I am very grateful for the expertise, kindness, and attention to detail that Dr. Mesut Sançmis provided. I would gladly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for high-quality, compassionate care.

MMayra Tapia
WhatClinic

The Dr was very helpful and honest and gave me my options how to go forward. Very pleased with the support. I requested injections and the Dr recommended would not help as my condition requires surgery in the near future

PPaul FUK
Google

MSM Klinik have been excellent. From the initial consultation, through the Hospital procedure and the after care absolutely fantastic. Communication about the knee procedure and the ease of making it happen with genuine concern for your welfare and recovery. Highly recommend this great Klinic. Thanks MSM

PPaul Farrell
Google

I fortunately came across Dr. Mesut while researching orthopedic surgeons in Antalya after suffering a severe heel fracture in the United States. From the beginning, I was uneasy with the treatment plan proposed by my U.S. surgeon. After more than a year of being told that it was simply a “bad break” that would take time to heal, it was finally discovered that I had also severely sprained my ankle at the time of the injury, resulting in partial ligament and tendon tears that had been missed entirely.

When these tears were eventually identified, the solution I was given was ankle fusion surgery, an option that would have permanently limited my mobility. This did not sit right with me.

While in Antalya for my spouse's dental care, I had the opportunity to consult with Dr. Mesut at MSM Klinik. His team quickly arranged comprehensive testing to fully understand what was happening with my foot. Dr. Mesut confirmed the ligament and tendon damage but was very clear that ankle fusion was not the appropriate solution for my case. Through my time there, it was clear to me that he treats a wide range of complex orthopedic conditions, not just ankle cases, which gave me even more confidence in his overall experience. From our first conversation, I felt confident in his expertise. He immediately recognized the complexity of my injury, especially given that my foot had healed incorrectly over the course of more than a year and a half.

After returning to the U.S. and doing further research, I made the decision to go back to Antalya and proceed with surgery under Dr. Mesut’s care. One of the major factors in my decision was his use of stem cell therapy, an option that was never even discussed by my doctors in the United States.

From start to finish, the level of professionalism and compassion at MSM Klinik was exceptional. Everyone in the office was attentive, organized, and supportive. Eli was especially wonderful, managing all logistics and providing clear translation throughout the entire process, which made everything seamless and stress free. During my stay, I also received IV vitamin and supportive therapies at the office designed to aid healing and speed recovery.

I am now just 2.5 weeks post surgery and already able to walk at approximately 50% weight bearing. In the U.S., I would have been non-weight bearing for at least two months before even beginning this stage. My recovery has been faster and smoother than I ever expected, and everything is healing remarkably well.

IIldiko Allen
Trustpilot

Near Lara/speak English/top orthopedic

Top orthopedic. We needed a hand surgeon for our son who had an accident with a knife. Great Service via WhatsApp/speak English. Modern clinic. All innovative methods. State of art Equipment. Near hotels in Lara/Kundu. Also good for international tourists.

JJ. Müller
Google

I had a bit of a medical emergency during my trip to Antalya, and I'm so glad I found this clinic. They managed to squeeze me in right away and built a care program that worked perfectly with the rest of my stay. The doctor was wonderful, and having a translator there made the whole process stress-free. I felt truly well-cared for at every appointment!

PP. Martin Dufresne
WhatClinic

Dr Mesut and the team were exceptional and delivered excellent service. My issue was well investigated and management options/plans were provided. I am well satisfied with the service and happy with the outcome. Thank you again

AAbdimalik IUK
Google

Service was excellent. I’m forever grateful to Surgeon Mesut Sancmis for taking care of me. I’m still recovering and have a follow up coming soon but I’m confident I will recover 100%. The whole staff was very attentive and professional. Starting with the driver he was so helpful and nice assisting me with my wheelchair. Amy who was with me throughout the whole process made sure all my needs and concerns were addressed. I didn’t feel there was a language barrier because she was there to translate and facilitate all my needs. Even after discharge Dr Mesut and Amy visit me multiple times to check on me and make sure everything was going well. I highly recommend them. Dr Mesut Sancmis is an awesome surgeon I’m glad I found him and if I ever need surgery again i will choose him, I highly recommend him. Thank you 🙏🏽

JJulio-Pierre Fuertes
Google

My wife had a knee injection at MSM Klinik in Antalya in Turkey last year. She had been suffering from severe knee pain for several years and the injection really helped her regain mobility. So, we returned to MSM Klinik this year, where she has now had a second injection, which we expect will help her sustain her ability to walk at least another six months free of pain. My wife has been referred to NHS orthopedic specialists in the UK and is waiting for their diagnosis also. Waiting times are very long still in the UK, so the assistance provided by MSM Klinik in Turkey in the meantime has been extremely helpful.

PPaul Choate
WhatClinic

I visited Antalya in early May of 2025, while experiencing acute sciatica pain going down my left leg. I got in touch with MSM Klinik and had the exam scheduled promptly after talking over the phone with the staff. I had the X-rays and MRI done very promptly at Yasam Hastanesi Life Hospital. MSM Klinik staff, Mr. Mursel, took me to the hospital and was with me there while I was getting the x-rays and MRI done. Then he drove me back to the MSM Klinik where we reviewed the results with the Doctor. The Doctor appeared very knowledgeable and offered an effective treatment plan. However, it was beyond my budget. I continued to manage my back pain with NSAID.

I'm giving 5 starts for the service and promptness, but not for any medical procedure as no medical procedure was done.

The Doctor, his assistant Mr. Murcel, and the office staff were very kind, professional and attentive to my issue, which deserves a 5 star review.

The MRI, x-rays and the consultation were reasonably priced.

AAPUS
Google

I couldn't recommend this clinic more!

In addition to achieving my desired results, the clinic and doctor were constantly in touch with me (both in person and by phone) and responded quickly to any questions or concerns I had. This gave me peace of mind and made the process feel much easier, while giving me confidence in it.

SSamuel
Google

Challenging or mild conditions require the type of specific attention provided! Dr. Mesut Sancmis Ortopedi and his entire staff are highly knowledgeable and solution focused! It is incredible to witness the difference their patient care delivers. Do you have back pain, shoulder issues, orthopedic problems, here’s your source for these and MUCH more! Please don’t hesitate to book your 1st consultation to start on the path of healing!

JJacqueline Poss
Google

The staff / ladies at the clinic are very professional, friendly and cute,,,, nothing is too much trouble.

Dr Mesut is also very Professional and knowledgeable, and if his treatment works successfully, which i have no doubt about, I will return annually for check overs / mot.

If not I will return just once,,,, for a refund 😂🤣

Seriously he is very very good, i totally recommend him and his team and I have experienced hospitals / clinics all over the world due to my previous life racing Speedway,,,, tge racing was fine,,,, the crashes were the problem.

JJD

Ratings as shown on each platform on 15 October 2026. Reviews cover a range of treatments and are the opinions of individual patients.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Antalya

Ask the team about accommodation at Ramada Plaza Antalya and the arrangements relevant to your planned stay.CONFIRM: partnership

  • ~10 minto the clinic
  • On sitesea platform
  • ~20 minfrom the airport

Distances are approximate.CONFIRM

Everything set up for recovery

  • Accessible roomSpace for crutches and a wheelchair
  • Walk-in showerGrab rails and a shower seat
  • Step-free accessLift to every floor
  • Sea-view diningBreakfast included daily
  • Clinic transfersTo every physio and check-up
  • 24/7 supportReception and your local coordinator
Ask About Accommodation Details depend on your treatment plan.CONFIRM
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Limb Shortening

Other questions can be sent through the enquiry form.

Message on WhatsApp+90 533 312 35 53
How Much Shorter Can I Become?

There is no suitable reduction that applies to everyone. The proposed amount depends on bone dimensions, leg proportions, muscle function and the purpose of surgery.

Is Limb Shortening Permanent?

Shortening changes the structure of the bone and should be regarded as permanent. Restoring length would require further major treatment, not a simple reversal.

Are Both Legs Always Operated On?

Not necessarily; correcting a discrepancy may involve only the longer leg. Elective height reduction is a different plan involving both sides.

Is Shortening the Same as Stopping Bone Growth?

No; growth-limiting surgery acts on open growth plates in children who are still growing. Adult bone shortening removes existing bone and does not rely on remaining growth.

Will I Need Another Operation to Remove the Implant?

Implant removal is not automatic in every case. The decision depends on the fixation used, bone healing, symptoms and the surgeon's assessment.

Medically Reviewed by

Op. Dr. Mesut Sançmış

Reviewing surgeon

Op. Dr. Mesut Sançmış

Orthopaedic Surgeon · Founder of MSM Klinik · Antalya, Türkiye

  • Orthopaedics & Traumatology Specialist
  • Specialist since 2015
  • Health Tourism Authorised
About Dr. Sançmış

The information on this page has been reviewed by Dr. Sançmış. It does not replace an individual medical consultation.

Enquiry

Ask About Limb Shortening

Contact Dr. Sançmış's team to discuss limb shortening in Turkey. Explain whether your enquiry concerns height reduction or unequal leg lengths, and share your questions about assessment, recovery or costs.

  1. 1
    Send your enquiry

    Tell the team what you would like to discuss.

  2. 2
    The team gets in touch

    They explain the next steps and whether any reports or images are needed.

  3. 3
    Orthopaedic assessment

    Options are discussed with Dr. Sançmış once the relevant information is available.

Current height