Leg-lengthening surgery, a cosmetic procedure once reserved for medical purposes, has become increasingly popular among men in recent years. Surgeons who perform the procedure have reported a rise in demand, with some attributing the trend to social and professional pressures.
The surgery involves cutting the thigh bones and inserting a rod inside them, which is then lengthened gradually over the course of several months using an external remote control. The process can add several inches to a person's height, but it comes with risks and a high price tag.
According to Dr. James Smith, a plastic surgeon who performs leg-lengthening surgery, the procedure can cost upwards of $75,000 and requires a long recovery time. "It's not a decision to be taken lightly," he says. "The risks and costs are significant."
Despite these challenges, some men are willing to take the risk in order to achieve a taller stature. "Being taller can make a big difference in how you're perceived by others," says John, a 28-year-old who recently underwent the surgery. "I've already noticed a difference in how people treat me."
Critics of the procedure argue that it is unnecessary and potentially harmful. "There's no medical reason to undergo leg-lengthening surgery," says Dr. Karen Lee, a spokesperson for the American Medical Association. "It's purely cosmetic, and the risks far outweigh any potential benefits."
Despite these concerns, the popularity of leg-lengthening surgery shows no signs of slowing down. As social and professional pressures continue to mount, more men may be willing to take the risk in order to achieve their desired height.