How does leg lengthening surgery work?

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Jason Hoellwarth |

TED-Ed

• November 2025

Differences in leg length can emerge for various reasons, from genetic and hormonal conditions to injuries that impact bone growth. But while we still don’t know exactly what degree of difference causes health issues, doctors have made great strides in figuring out how to even out these mismatched limbs. Jason Shih Hoellwarth digs into the benefits and limitations of bone lengthening surgery. [Directed by Igor Ćorić, Artrake Studio, narrated by Addison Anderson, music Cem Misirlioglu, WORKPLAYWORK].