Today in Focus Would you have your legs broken to be taller?
11 snips
Sep 5, 2025 Ruth Michaelson, a journalist based in Istanbul, delves into the booming industry of leg-lengthening surgery in Turkey. She uncovers the emotional and physical toll of the procedure, revealing patients’ struggles with pain and regret. The conversation highlights how societal pressures shape the desire for height, particularly among men, and discusses the psychological complexities tied to body image. Additionally, Michaelson explores the rise of medical tourism and the allure of combining surgery with a vacation, while cautioning about the potential risks involved.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Brutal Early Recovery
- Ezekiel described waking after surgery with extreme, explosive pain and intense early regret.
- He said he had to self-manage medicines and turn a screw four times daily to lengthen one millimetre each time.
Outcome Hinges On Patient Aftercare
- Patients must self-administer careful aftercare including antibiotics, blood thinners and precise screw turns to create new bone.
- The success depends heavily on patient adherence once discharged from hospital.
From Niche Medicine To Big Business
- Leg lengthening has shifted from niche orthopaedics to a multibillion-pound industry despite risks and small height gains.
- Social demand and cosmetic tourism have driven clinics to scale this intense procedure.