A 42-year-old man from India, Mukesh, undergoes a limb lengthening surgery using the Ilizarov method, also known as the Elizabeth method, to increase his height. This procedure, originally developed to correct limb deformities, has gained popularity in India for cosmetic purposes. Mukesh's decision to undergo the surgery is motivated by the societal pressure to be tall, particularly in the context of marriage and social standing.
The surgery, performed by Dr. Mina, involves cutting the bone and attaching a device to gradually lengthen the leg. However, the procedure is not without risks, and complications can arise, such as infection, deformity, and delayed healing.
The documentary follows Mukesh's journey, from his decision to undergo the surgery to his recovery and the development of complications. It also features interviews with Dr. Mina and another orthopedic doctor, Dr. Vivek Tiwari, who discuss the risks and challenges associated with the Ilizarov method.
The film highlights the societal pressure to conform to certain physical standards, particularly in India, where height is often seen as an asset. It also raises questions about the ethics of cosmetic surgery and the risks that people are willing to take to achieve their desired physical appearance.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Mukesh, a 42-year-old man from India, is undergoing surgery to increase his height.
2. The surgery is using the Elizabeth method, which was originally developed to correct limb deformities.
3. The Elizabeth method involves breaking the leg bones and attaching them to a device that will slowly lengthen the bones.
4. The procedure can take around 1.5 hours per leg.
5. The average height of men in India is around 5 feet 8 inches (172 cm).
6. Indian men have, on average, become 1 cm shorter in the past decade.
7. Dr. Gabriel Ilizarov developed the ring fixator method in 1951 to fix limb deformities in soldiers.
8. The ring fixator method is now used for cosmetic limb lengthening in India.
9. Mukesh will need to return to the hospital after two weeks for a follow-up check.
10. The maximum amount of lengthening that can be done at one time is 15-18% of the normal length of the extremity.
11. At least a dozen botched surgeries or complications have been recorded in India using the Ilizarov method.
12. Complications can range from simple infections to the loss of a limb in extreme cases.
13. Pin track infections are commonly seen complications of the Ilizarov method, but can be treated with antibiotics or dressing changes.
14. Discrepancy in the limb is not very common, but can be corrected with a shoe raise if necessary.
15. The pressure to be tall in society, particularly in Indian society, is significant and can affect a person's marriage prospects, job opportunities, and self-esteem.