Limb Lengthening Forum

Limb Lengthening Surgery => Limb Lengthening Patients Experiences => Topic started by: RazalDazal on October 22, 2020, 03:09:31 AM

Title: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on October 22, 2020, 03:09:31 AM
Hi everyone,

For past 10 years I have only observed these forums and read about leg lengthening. Main reason was money and career. I was working on both and hence the surgery was out of my affordability range. Anyway, now I am ready and have taken the first step of contacting Dr. Assayag. We did our tele-health meeting and he answered all of my concerns/questions. Now to the next step of looking at the potential dates for surgery. We believe it will be in December.

A little bit about me:

- I am 5.4" and will be doing Femur lengthening
- I believe I am probably the oldest guy on this forum to do the LL? (I am in my late 30s)
- I have told my wife, co-workers etc.
- I will be staying in Maryland for the first three weeks

Fingers crossed. Lets see :)       

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Stryde2021 on October 22, 2020, 03:29:55 AM
Check PM!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Bane on October 22, 2020, 04:17:02 AM
Nice to read about a diary of a US doctor other than Paley, Mahboubian, or Debiparshad.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on October 22, 2020, 04:23:19 AM
Hi everyone,

For past 10 years I have only observed these forums and read about leg lengthening. Main reason was money and career. I was working on both and hence the surgery was out of my affordability range. Anyway, now I am ready and have taken the first step of contacting Dr. Assayag. We did our tele-health meeting and he answered all of my concerns/questions. Now to the next step of looking at the potential dates for surgery. We believe it will be in December.

A little bit about me:

- I am 5.4" and will be doing Femur lengthening
- I believe I am probably the oldest guy on this forum to do the LL? (I am in my late 30s)
- I have told my wife, co-workers etc.
- I will be staying in Maryland for the first three weeks

Fingers crossed. Lets see :)     

1. What was the total price?

2. What are your thoughts on doing this option and living with a family member in northern Virginia during the process? Too far from Baltimore?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on October 22, 2020, 04:26:40 AM
Hi everyone,

For past 10 years I have only observed these forums and read about leg lengthening. Main reason was money and career. I was working on both and hence the surgery was out of my affordability range. Anyway, now I am ready and have taken the first step of contacting Dr. Assayag. We did our tele-health meeting and he answered all of my concerns/questions. Now to the next step of looking at the potential dates for surgery. We believe it will be in December.

A little bit about me:

- I am 5.4" and will be doing Femur lengthening
- I believe I am probably the oldest guy on this forum to do the LL? (I am in my late 30s)
- I have told my wife, co-workers etc.
- I will be staying in Maryland for the first three weeks

Fingers crossed. Lets see :)     

Did he have lengthening limits? Ex: only willing to do 5cm or 6cm?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on October 22, 2020, 02:41:37 PM
Hi SpeedDialer,

Dr. Assayag is preparing a quote for me (so I don’t know the final price yet). Btw I myself am in a healthcare industry :)

COST

Couple of points on the cost:

-   On average the cost of Femur lengthening in the US is between $80k- $110k
-   The high cost medical system in the US is designed for insurance companies and not for the out-of-pocket/cash payors.
-   The high cost of LL is not always because of the surgeon but also depends on the hospital where the surgery is being performed. Hospital prices are inflated based on the rates at which insurance companies will reimburse the hospital on a patient's behalf. That's why a single aspirin can cost $30 per pill in the E.R., which is more than six times the price for a bottle of them at the drug store.
-   The Stryde Nail itself is extremely expensive which inflates the cost of surgery in US
-   You can lower you final cost by staying less at the hospital. For example: Dr. Assayag's price may quote you for a 3 day hospital stay. But if you leave the facility after 2 days, you can save money on that extra 1 day (make sense?)


My purpose of highlighting the crazy hospital cost system in the US was to point out that surgeons like Assayag, Janet or Paley are not making bank from each surgery. Of course, they are still getting paid handsomely :) but what they get paid vs. what we pay for the procedure are two different things.

Also FYI - The interest rates in US are the lowest that I have seen. This is a good time to research if you can get home equity loan, Home Equity line of credit or a Personal Loan to fund your surgery. I don't like the so called medical financing companies like care credit because their intertest rates are crazy high. Meanwhile the banks may give you loans for a very low apr.  (you guys may disagree but I am just posting my thoughts)
   


LIVING

I think for the first couple of weeks at least you would want to be close to Baltimore. You can stay on the campus of Sinai Hospital at the Hackerman-Patz House for $15/day.
I have family and pets that will be staying with me which is why I will simply rent an AirBNB for first 3 weeks. After three weeks, I will visit Dr. Assayag every 2 weeks. I live close to Pittsburg, so I have a 5 hour drive each way. One thing I am really uncomfortable doing while lengthening is flying. 

LIMITS

He does not have a pre-defined limit nor can he guarantee how much length I will be able to gain. It all depends on complications and nerve pain issues that could arise once you go beyond 5cm. From what I know 5cm is almost always achievable… its “after” 5cm that lots of patients suffer from numbness, pain or other issues…

For myself, to get maximum gain I am doing stretches right now. We'll see

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Hagane on October 22, 2020, 06:26:17 PM
Hi everyone,

For past 10 years I have only observed these forums and read about leg lengthening. Main reason was money and career. I was working on both and hence the surgery was out of my affordability range. Anyway, now I am ready and have taken the first step of contacting Dr. Assayag. We did our tele-health meeting and he answered all of my concerns/questions. Now to the next step of looking at the potential dates for surgery. We believe it will be in December.

A little bit about me:

- I am 5.4" and will be doing Femur lengthening
- I believe I am probably the oldest guy on this forum to do the LL? (I am in my late 30s)
- I have told my wife, co-workers etc.
- I will be staying in Maryland for the first three weeks

Fingers crossed. Lets see :)     

when are you looking to do the procedure?
i have been in talks with dr A and once i finish my exam next week, i am lookign to get my procedure done in nov! maybe ill see you there :)

i belive SNC is probably older than you by a good 10 years and he just finished his distraction!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on October 22, 2020, 06:58:19 PM
Awesome! I will send you my date as soon as mine is scheduled
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on October 22, 2020, 11:37:21 PM
Looks like the three of us are going to be lengthening around the same time!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 08, 2020, 05:31:21 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PoZfagietZY
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: las vegas baby on December 09, 2020, 08:12:03 AM
good stuff. youll do great brother. the fact that the best of best surgeons do cosmetic leg length surgery is reassuring. your in great hands
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: las vegas baby on December 09, 2020, 08:13:44 AM
you said your in the medical field. what line of work can I ask?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: deaddog on December 09, 2020, 11:14:25 AM
Hi Razle, best wishes on your surgery with Dr. Assayag! Thank you for your great diary and for sharing your experience(s) with us on this great forum as well... Please keep us updated on your progress when you are able and again, best wishes to you! ;)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 09, 2020, 04:41:00 PM
Hi Friend, I work in Artificial Intelligence field at a hospital system (health system)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 09, 2020, 05:41:02 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DeTzuf3g7Y
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: 184dream on December 09, 2020, 05:47:50 PM
please share you physical therapy regimn  day by day
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 10, 2020, 03:47:42 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7EwTa4-0R4
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Highest on December 10, 2020, 06:47:22 AM
Did you discuss with Dr Assayag the pain management plan and what drugs you'll be taking? There is a huge variance in terms of pain patients have under different doctors for example Dr Debiparshad appears to have the pain management under control but Paley patients still complain about it even though Paley is the best doctor.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Movie on December 10, 2020, 07:14:13 AM
nice man! you seem to have everything ready for a sucessful journey, got the walker, crutches, accessible shower, and STAIRS with a rail! those are going to be giving you gains during distraction and help you recover quick! best of luck man hoping to maybe have removal with Dr. Assayag and hop on a zoom meeting when his secretary replies to my emails lol. you got this
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Jokerhastowait2022 on December 10, 2020, 08:51:51 AM
Good Luck RD! Wish you a smooth surgery!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on December 10, 2020, 05:37:34 PM
I mean this question with all respect because I could see myself in this situation if I do tibias relatively late in my life. What are your thoughts on getting LL so late even though many of your dating years are over?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 11, 2020, 12:26:32 AM
Yep. Pain was one of the first questions I asked Assayag.  I am a big wuss and when it comes to pain. I'm not worried about narcotics such as oxycodone or other drugs because getting addicted is not one of my concerns because of the nature of my job I get drug tested regularly so that would not happen. However getting ample supply of pain medicine was one of my top requirements and I spoke to Assayag and he was okay with it
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 11, 2020, 12:33:22 AM
Yes I would recommend it. I am personally doing it for my mind and not for sex or job etc. I have a beautiful wife that I still think was out of my league.. we are happily married with very active life and I love my job. So no issues there.

HOWEVER, Having said that, the LL surgery was ALWAYS in the back of my mind. I have achieved everything I set as a goal in life and due to COVID, the time felt right to do it.

I recommend that if this makes u happy for even 40 more years, I think it's worth it.

Sorry for saying 40 lol, I wish u a long prosperous life my friend

I mean this question with all respect because I could see myself in this situation if I do tibias relatively late in my life. What are your thoughts on getting LL so late even though many of your dating years are over?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 12, 2020, 02:13:12 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foQ9VqmlgzY
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on December 12, 2020, 03:17:12 AM
Just watched your video - I'm about 3 weeks ahead of you. Ice pads over the surgical incision sites helped me a ton during the first few days in and out of the hospital, so I'd recommend using those when you can.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Movie on December 12, 2020, 03:43:02 AM
Pretty awesome video diary Razal! exciting, looks good, you're moving great for 1st day post op rooting for you!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: las vegas baby on December 12, 2020, 07:00:03 AM
bro its like I'm there with you. very nice documentation

one ques I Have: does assayag offer EOS scans or normal xray scans?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: NEET on December 12, 2020, 01:17:18 PM
Best of luck brother.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 12, 2020, 04:52:06 PM
Thank you BelowTheMean! excellent advice :) I am using ice round the clock

Just watched your video - I'm about 3 weeks ahead of you. Ice pads over the surgical incision sites helped me a ton during the first few days in and out of the hospital, so I'd recommend using those when you can.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 12, 2020, 04:55:52 PM
Thank you Movie! <3

Pretty awesome video diary Razal! exciting, looks good, you're moving great for 1st day post op rooting for you!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 12, 2020, 04:58:41 PM
Hi Las Vegas baby, With Dr. Assayag I have only gotten regular xrays so far



bro its like I'm there with you. very nice documentation

one ques I Have: does assayag offer EOS scans or normal xray scans?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 12, 2020, 04:59:23 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mk56o6BQCCE
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 12, 2020, 05:53:06 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syYUVYUAhyI
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 12, 2020, 09:07:41 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKgoZd45Wag
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: MeanGoal on December 12, 2020, 11:19:33 PM
We're a part of your support group, and cheering for you. Please keep us updated.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 13, 2020, 03:14:53 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U28USaktLaI
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 13, 2020, 03:53:19 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J328XbDJRg0
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: small on December 13, 2020, 06:47:09 PM
Hey Razzle, your video diary is extremely informative and helpful, thanks so much for doing this! Glad to see you're progressing well and good luck getting to your goal :)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Sunshine on December 13, 2020, 08:35:52 PM
Hey Razal!
Good luck Man, I'm sure you will hit 8cm. Watching your videos brings up so many memories from my own hospitalization last summer...
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 15, 2020, 11:31:45 PM
Thank you Sunshine and Small  :)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 15, 2020, 11:37:06 PM
First PT Appointment
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICHFMiugdew
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 16, 2020, 12:17:37 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCMFcxPOhw0
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 16, 2020, 01:20:54 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d96eyKpJVgs
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 18, 2020, 04:49:12 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J91dNbUQ_zc
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on December 18, 2020, 08:36:58 PM
That PT is right when she say the Thomas stretch is very important. I wish I had focused more on hamstrings in my first month. I'm afraid that I've fallen behind on stretching the hamstring already, though some of it might be due to the recurrence of swelling.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 24, 2020, 01:03:08 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhb2TifxSsc
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on December 24, 2020, 05:18:33 AM
Thanks for making these vids!!! What options did Dr. Assayag talk to you about he could do if there are complications and how much money did he advise you to keep in reserve in case of complications?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 24, 2020, 01:35:38 PM
Hi SpeedDialer,

Dr. Assayag spoke to me about many many complications. First was nicotine use of any kind and issues related to that. Then there was too much soda and alcohol consumption based complications. Finally there were things like non-union, bent nails and uber stretched muscles like the ones causing bent knee, duck ass or ballerina foot.

He had advised me to have 10-15k USD ready for any complications. Knock on wood, so far I have not had any

The complications did not concerned me as much because after talking to Assayag I could tell these people have seen a thing or two and know how to fix them before they get too problematic. In my case all I am doing is following the plan they are telling  me to.

Due to HIPAA and PHI laws I cannot talk about other patients at Siani however, I can assure you one thing, I have seen many many kids and adults here getting their limbs fixed (not cosmetic) but discrepancy issues in one of their legs.(their methods are exactly same as cosmetic)

Hope this helps
RD

Thanks for making these vids!!! What options did Dr. Assayag talk to you about he could do if there are complications and how much money did he advise you to keep in reserve in case of complications?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 25, 2020, 08:27:32 PM
Getting Custom Knee Device
14 Days since surgery


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlRoBilkIbg
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on December 26, 2020, 01:08:53 AM
RazalDazal - Thanks so much for the videos - they are pure gold!! And discovering them was like my best Christmas present.  Rooting for you.  Keep it up and stay strong.  Happy holidays 😊
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 26, 2020, 03:47:47 PM
Tips and advice so far
15 days since surgery


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qr7BeqhKXOg
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Siegfried on December 26, 2020, 04:33:11 PM
Hey Razal, great stuff! i have my upcoming LL surgery in about 3 weeks, so really appreciating the content you are putting up. You mentioned it has been very rewarding for you so far. Could you elaborate on this part? How come?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 26, 2020, 05:57:47 PM
Thank you L8GrowthSpurt  :)

 
RazalDazal - Thanks so much for the videos - they are pure gold!! And discovering them was like my best Christmas present.  Rooting for you.  Keep it up and stay strong.  Happy holidays 😊
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 26, 2020, 06:06:51 PM
Hi Siegfried,

Ok, this may sound a little weird or even crazy lol. So even though I know lengthening is slowly tightening me up and may even start to hurt more.... and even though my thighs are sore, I find myself more happy and looking forward to reaching my goals.

I am quite happy at the moment and am not in the mindset of "just get this over with", instead I am quite enjoying this time, the therapies, the stretches... its quite an experience.

The point is - I have spent a considerable amount of money on this anyway, so why not enjoy the journey as a unique experience in life lolz   :P :)

One for the bucket list!!  ;D





 

Hey Razal, great stuff! i have my upcoming LL surgery in about 3 weeks, so really appreciating the content you are putting up. You mentioned it has been very rewarding for you so far. Could you elaborate on this part? How come?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on December 26, 2020, 06:58:39 PM
Good luck on your surgery!

What do you have in your list of stuff to pack/bring with you when you move to the area of your surgery? I'm still not sure the right amount of stuff to bring
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 27, 2020, 11:45:14 PM
Here is what i brought:

- Crutches
- Toilet seat
- Walker
- Baggy clothes
- cooking supplies
- Slippers

that's pretty much it

Good luck on your surgery!

What do you have in your list of stuff to pack/bring with you when you move to the area of your surgery? I'm still not sure the right amount of stuff to bring
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 27, 2020, 11:49:45 PM
PT head at Sinai, Anil Bhave kicked my butt. I was sweating after his session

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My-R2jRnG5w
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on December 28, 2020, 03:39:32 AM
Hi Siegfried,

Ok, this may sound a little weird or even crazy lol. So even though I know lengthening is slowly tightening me up and may even start to hurt more.... and even though my thighs are sore, I find myself more happy and looking forward to reaching my goals.

I am quite happy at the moment and am not in the mindset of "just get this over with", instead I am quite enjoying this time, the therapies, the stretches... its quite an experience.

The point is - I have spent a considerable amount of money on this anyway, so why not enjoy the journey as a unique experience in life lolz   :P :)

One for the bucket list!!  ;D

I’m no expert for sure, but I’d say the battle is already won with this mental approach and attitude 👍; keep it up! 💪
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 28, 2020, 01:25:47 PM
My first ASTYM session

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8U6yJXGadY
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Siegfried on December 28, 2020, 10:11:43 PM
Fantastic Attittude! I hope I will be able to approach it the same way!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 29, 2020, 02:33:28 PM
Very first Post-Op Exam, X-Ray and Stitch removal

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yxwa2qA2TIk
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Shadow91 on December 29, 2020, 04:47:29 PM
Looking good bud!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: InFullStryde on December 30, 2020, 12:11:36 AM
These videos are giving prospect CLL'ers an incredible look inside the CLL process.  Thank you for doing this RazalDazal!   For those of us that have been through the CLL process...this serves as a wonderful trip down memory, lane. LOL.

Great job, Raz! Keep going strong!

All the Best,

IFS.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 31, 2020, 03:31:37 AM
thank you so much  :)

These videos are giving prospect CLL'ers an incredible look inside the CLL process.  Thank you for doing this RazalDazal!   For those of us that have been through the CLL process...this serves as a wonderful trip down memory, lane. LOL.

Great job, Raz! Keep going strong!

All the Best,

IFS.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 31, 2020, 03:32:23 AM
20 days after surgery


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJvYF5pZiHs
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Highest on December 31, 2020, 03:42:09 AM
Hi RD great to see how your progressing. Following up from what I asked you earlier about pain management. How would you rate the pain levels from post surgery compared to currently and have you been using anything other than OxyContin?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on December 31, 2020, 04:42:53 AM
Hey Highest,

pain is still manageable. On scale of 1-10, my pain at night gets around 6 but then I take pain medication and it is then manageable.

Other than OxyContin, I take Acetaminophen and Naprosyn


Hi RD great to see how your progressing. Following up from what I asked you earlier about pain management. How would you rate the pain levels from post surgery compared to currently and have you been using anything other than OxyContin?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: sportiveshort on December 31, 2020, 06:08:32 AM
Great video!
Thank you for providing all this information. It will definetly help when I go for the surgery.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: montahn on December 31, 2020, 06:20:55 PM
perfect  :)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on January 06, 2021, 03:35:01 AM
Happy New Year Razal! Hope you’re doing well; thanks so much for the video and other diaries. Much appreciated by future LL’ers like me.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on January 06, 2021, 03:47:35 AM
Thanks for the update RazDal!

If you could do it over again, what would you have brought with you for entertainment or convenience?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 09, 2021, 03:23:00 PM
Happy new year to you as well :)

Thank you


Happy New Year Razal! Hope you’re doing well; thanks so much for the video and other diaries. Much appreciated by future LL’ers like me.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 09, 2021, 03:26:07 PM
this is a very good question. i will make a video for you :)

Sorry I was away since new year. First I was celebrating new years, then due to SolarWinds hack I was called back to work  :P

So i have been busy at work (from home of course) and then I had t move back home from Baltimore. So perfect storm for not allowing me to post updates.

I will start posting today



Thanks for the update RazDal!

If you could do it over again, what would you have brought with you for entertainment or convenience?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: LegSGo! on January 09, 2021, 06:37:35 PM
@RazalDazal,

Love the videos and you sharing about your LL journey. Keep them coming. It’s really good to hear LL’ers experience going through this. Thanks!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on January 09, 2021, 11:22:08 PM
Hey RazDal, thanks for posting the vids!!!

When you go to the PT place or to see Dr. Assayag, what are some things you like and dislike about Baltimore in the nearby area within walking distance of them for fun or good food (that a guy on crutches/cane can do?)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: dore on January 10, 2021, 04:40:25 AM
what are some things you like and dislike about Baltimore in the nearby area within walking distance of them for fun or good food (that a guy on crutches/cane can do?)

There isn't anything within walking distance of the hospital. It's in a rather suburban part of Baltimore. Definitely wishing I had a car. I also lived in a more happening neighborhood for awhile but the walking distances were still a bit much (we take for granted how fast we can walk when well...).
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 11, 2021, 02:40:09 AM
It's a good question. Before surgery I had planned all kinds of things like walking around Inner Harbor, Zoo or Aquarium. After surgery I just stayed home. While you may not be in pain all the time, the surgery does take a toll on you.

I rested as much as i could, ate good and stretched.

The one thing I dont like about Baltimore is its traffic... its a big city

The one thing I really like about this city is food. You can order different kind of food every day and you will not run out of variety


Hey RazDal, thanks for posting the vids!!!

When you go to the PT place or to see Dr. Assayag, what are some things you like and dislike about Baltimore in the nearby area within walking distance of them for fun or good food (that a guy on crutches/cane can do?)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 11, 2021, 02:43:35 AM
PT and ASTYM with Annie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EROf8ifi1Js
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 11, 2021, 02:46:18 AM
First time traveling after surgery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mmcS7GYDHw
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on January 11, 2021, 04:43:54 AM
RD - Gratitude for the great diary and videos, a valuable contribution to this community and for all like me who plan on following your example!  If my math is right, you’re like 30 days post surgery.  How’s your pain levels and function 30 days in? Watching along and rooting for you! 👍😁
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: montahn on January 11, 2021, 08:46:10 PM
First time traveling after surgery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mmcS7GYDHw


how much you gain ? whats is your target height ?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 11, 2021, 11:57:18 PM
yep. you are correct. However, the videos I am loading are week old (I dont want to miss out anything that happened) I should be able to catch up this week. The pain is still manageable. Its a different pain now (the stretching kind)


RD - Gratitude for the great diary and videos, a valuable contribution to this community and for all like me who plan on following your example!  If my math is right, you’re like 30 days post surgery.  How’s your pain levels and function 30 days in? Watching along and rooting for you! 👍😁
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 11, 2021, 11:58:29 PM
3 inches will be dream come true but if I ended up with a little over 2 inches I will be a happy camper. So far I have gained 1 inch



how much you gain ? whats is your target height ?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 12, 2021, 04:05:45 AM

First time I noticed I am TALLER  :) :o


25 Days after surgery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ki2CPMldjw
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on January 12, 2021, 04:29:39 AM
Happy for you, RD; sounds very exciting! Keep the videos coming - everyone here is in your debt for sharing and for being so open about the process and your experience. Stay strong, brutha 💪
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 15, 2021, 05:25:17 AM
thank you  :)


Happy for you, RD; sounds very exciting! Keep the videos coming - everyone here is in your debt for sharing and for being so open about the process and your experience. Stay strong, brutha 💪
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 15, 2021, 05:26:44 AM
Things I have purchased post surgery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KP8hOnjC5GY
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 16, 2021, 05:14:20 AM
29 days after surgery

leg lengthening pain

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amTJwQhpB_s
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: small on January 16, 2021, 07:16:03 AM
The journey's going to get a bit tougher at this point but it's only for a couple months, keep fighting! Stay focused on the end goal, it will all be worth it :)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 16, 2021, 09:51:48 PM
thank you my friend <3

The journey's going to get a bit tougher at this point but it's only for a couple months, keep fighting! Stay focused on the end goal, it will all be worth it :)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 16, 2021, 09:53:18 PM
traveling back to Baltimore to see Assayag. 31 days after surgery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNtTkuFeg_s
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 17, 2021, 06:28:15 PM
Assayag visit - 33 days after surgery

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oox2w_m5tzw
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on January 18, 2021, 01:23:01 AM
Looking good RD! Will be interesting to get your perspective on things after you slow the distraction pace. Stay strong 💪...you’re like about 1/3 towards your new height!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 18, 2021, 05:35:13 AM
Definitely my friend. I will report back with progress report

Looking good RD! Will be interesting to get your perspective on things after you slow the distraction pace. Stay strong 💪...you’re like about 1/3 towards your new height!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 18, 2021, 05:36:01 AM
PT after visiting Assayag

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqD9nnFefR0
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: 6CMFemurs on January 18, 2021, 06:03:28 AM
@Razal: I remember when I slowed down from 1 MM to 0.75, literally all my pain went away, and I had a painless rest of the lengthening process. You will feel much better.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 21, 2021, 12:27:47 AM
I agree with you 6CMFemurs. I am liking slowing down as well

@Razal: I remember when I slowed down from 1 MM to 0.75, literally all my pain went away, and I had a painless rest of the lengthening process. You will feel much better.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 21, 2021, 12:35:36 AM
40 day check-in
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtTQOw_1zUo
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on January 21, 2021, 01:48:09 AM
Hey RD, I know it sometimes feels like things are getting worse as you lengthen, but it's also possible for things to get better as well. Overall, I feel so much better right now at 5cm than I did a few weeks ago at 4cm that the difference is like night and day. If anyone asked me right now if I was getting better, I can answer 100% confidently YES. Of course, I still have 3cm to go and a lot can happen, but I currently have an optimistic outlook. I hope things start feeling better for you soon! -BTM
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 21, 2021, 02:47:42 AM
Hey BTM, nice to hear from you  :)

I am definitely better than when I was doing 1mm daily. I hope to feel as better as you are. Especially at 5cm (man that will be so cool)

Was there something specific you did that helped you? Like did you stretched more or did some specific stretches?

Thank you for valuable feedback!! I am not in excruciating pain or anything but any increase in comfort is always welcome  ;D

Hey RD, I know it sometimes feels like things are getting worse as you lengthen, but it's also possible for things to get better as well. Overall, I feel so much better right now at 5cm than I did a few weeks ago at 4cm that the difference is like night and day. If anyone asked me right now if I was getting better, I can answer 100% confidently YES. Of course, I still have 3cm to go and a lot can happen, but I currently have an optimistic outlook. I hope things start feeling better for you soon! -BTM
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Stryde2021 on January 21, 2021, 03:39:52 AM
Hey RD, I know it sometimes feels like things are getting worse as you lengthen, but it's also possible for things to get better as well. Overall, I feel so much better right now at 5cm than I did a few weeks ago at 4cm that the difference is like night and day. If anyone asked me right now if I was getting better, I can answer 100% confidently YES. Of course, I still have 3cm to go and a lot can happen, but I currently have an optimistic outlook. I hope things start feeling better for you soon! -BTM

According to your most recent journal entry it looks like you've lengthened 2.33mm over the past 8 days.   I guess that's one way to feel better, but i don't think it's a realistic option for most people (pre-consolidation/too much time/etc.). 
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on January 21, 2021, 03:22:42 PM
Hey BTM, nice to hear from you  :)

I am definitely better than when I was doing 1mm daily. I hope to feel as better as you are. Especially at 5cm (man that will be so cool)

Was there something specific you did that helped you? Like did you stretched more or did some specific stretches?

Thank you for valuable feedback!! I am not in excruciating pain or anything but any increase in comfort is always welcome  ;D

Hey RD, my major issue was nerve pain to the point where it was constantly affecting me. Slowing down/taking a break and taking meds for that greatly helped with it. I actually don't feel very tight right now in my muscles, so I've just been stretching a lot in general and lengthening pretty slowly. If tightness is your issue, then slowing down and stretching even more are probably the best solutions.

According to your most recent journal entry it looks like you've lengthened 2.33mm over the past 8 days.   I guess that's one way to feel better, but i don't think it's a realistic option for most people (pre-consolidation/too much time/etc.). 

Hi Stryde2021, it's true that I took a 3 day break and I'm currently lengthening at 0.52mm/day on average. My doctor says I actually have above average growth in my bone callus. It's only the people who have extreme growth that need to increase past 1mm/day or are unable to slow down and take breaks. Once the bone has been distracted far enough, most people can slow down as needed. In terms of time spent, I would strongly suggest that you set aside more time than the minimum for the distraction phase. If I only let myself lengthen for 3 months, I'm certain that I would only be able to get 6 to 6.5cm. Most people run into some kind of roadblock during lengthening which extends the amount of time spent.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: azaghul on January 21, 2021, 10:45:24 PM
Hey Razal,

Why did you choose Dr. Assayag? How’s the experience?


Also, he said you should always walk with support cause even though the nail is weight-bearing, when you walk there is more force? Did you try climbing up/down stairs?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 24, 2021, 05:25:35 AM
Hi Azaghul,

I choose Dr. Assayag because I felt most comfortable when I spoke to him. He was personable and available. Moreover, the Sinai hospital has a dedicated department for bone issues. And finally Baltimore is a place I can visit by car. I really really dont want to fly during LL. I fly airplanes as a hobby so I not afraid to fly. Just during lengthening.

I am walking without cane now. Only for stairs I use a crutch. Dr. Assayag had told me to not walk without assistance in the first 3 weeks. I am ok now

Thanks,
RD


Hey Razal,

Why did you choose Dr. Assayag? How’s the experience?


Also, he said you should always walk with support cause even though the nail is weight-bearing, when you walk there is more force? Did you try climbing up/down stairs?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: azaghul on January 24, 2021, 06:38:22 PM
Hey, I thought that about Dr. Assayag too so if I do go through with this surgery, it would either be him or the Canadian doctor he highly recommends.

Going into the surgery or just planning to get it, were you nervous or having second thoughts? Idk why I’m feeling that a lot rn. I’m 24 and would have the surgery next year anyways if I do but I’m not sure.

Thanks for the answers RD, good luck lengthening.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: overandover on January 25, 2021, 03:52:30 PM
subscribe
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on January 27, 2021, 08:05:01 PM
First time going into office  :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiWzaI5i3PE
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on January 28, 2021, 12:32:35 AM
Hah, I totally get leaving that walker in the office. We have no idea how capable we are going to be after surgery. I stocked up on so many cans of vegetables and packs of frozen meat before surgery, but it wasn't necessary since I could have started shopping alone six weeks after surgery.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: ggg112 on January 28, 2021, 02:57:45 AM
Continued luck with your process.  I appreciate your detailed logs/blogs, as I too am entertaining possibly going with Dr. Assayag, as a viable option, as location wise we are similar, (I live in Pittsburgh, and have relatives that will be soon moving to either Owings Mills or Towson).

It was interesting to see some of your therapy performed as I was surprised to see internal and external rotation of the hip performed, (learn something every day I guess), as a practicing PTA the patients that I've seen that have procedures that would be similar are hip ORIF, (Open Reduction Internal Fixation), patients.

Although I haven't practiced in an outpatient setting in years, and it's technically not a contraindication, (however I have seen certain ortho docs request these patients have total hip precautions, which in those cases External and Internal rotation, along with crossing midline of the body and hip flexion of 90 degrees and greater are contraindications), we usually  avoid those motions with patients due to pain as complaints of instability in that area.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Vibes on January 29, 2021, 01:25:30 AM
Loving the detailed video diaries. They are a huge help for those of us who are still deciding into the day to day life during the process.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 06, 2021, 03:09:53 AM
Visiting Assayag 48 days after surgery. Bone formation is not looking very good so we will be slowing the lengthening down to 0.5mm per day

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jNXXXLhxFI
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 06, 2021, 03:12:01 AM
One of my viewers on youtube asked the question from Dr. Assayag about Nerve Damage. What are the symptoms, when to best detect it and how to triage it


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zn7hQUU2sdg
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: permanentlybanned on February 06, 2021, 03:40:46 AM
Damn dude that is basically no callus almost non union not looking good

Accordion method will have to be done (distraction and then compression cycled daily)

Razaldazal you should stand more, like most of the day. You need that weightbearing not gonna grow bone sitting down

Good luck man I hope it improves and you stand more
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: pownzorgeek on February 06, 2021, 10:28:21 AM
Hi RazalDazal, you have done great so far. That being said, I also see some of the problems you are having with pain, bone growth etc.

Would you say you are doing enough PT and stretching at home? Also were you flexible pre-op? Sorry if you have answered this already.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Dirona on February 06, 2021, 11:01:25 AM
Pl be careful while walking dude...Prioritise safety and function over anything else at this point..Good luck !
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 06, 2021, 01:32:29 PM
Thank you ghkid. It's quite a coincidence that you mentioned about moving and standing. About a couple of days ago I noticed that as well and started to deliberately move and walk extra everyday. my next appointment with Dr Assayag is in three four days so we will see how it goes.

Fingers crossed!

Damn dude that is basically no callus almost non union not looking good

Accordion method will have to be done (distraction and then compression cycled daily)

Razaldazal you should stand more, like most of the day. You need that weightbearing not gonna grow bone sitting down

Good luck man I hope it improves and you stand more
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 06, 2021, 01:35:44 PM
Hi PG,

I am doing PT daily but as Ghkid said about moving, I was staying mostly sedentary. I have started to walk more.

As for pre-op flexibility, I was not flexible at all

Hope this helps

 

Hi RazalDazal, you have done great so far. That being said, I also see some of the problems you are having with pain, bone growth etc.

Would you say you are doing enough PT and stretching at home? Also were you flexible pre-op? Sorry if you have answered this already.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 06, 2021, 01:36:59 PM
Hi Realistic, thank you! Yep safety is. number one priority



Pl be careful while walking dude...Prioritise safety and function over anything else at this point..Good luck !
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: permanentlybanned on February 06, 2021, 02:08:16 PM
Thank you ghkid. It's quite a coincidence that you mentioned about moving and standing. About a couple of days ago I noticed that as well and started to deliberately move and walk extra everyday. my next appointment with Dr Assayag is in three four days so we will see how it goes.

Fingers crossed!

🙏🏼🙏🏼 that extra walking/standing will 100% help, you will get through this if you stand and move more. Weightbearing more is 100% correlated to good callus growth backed by decades of orthopedic research and Paley rozbruch and every CLL doctor toutes this (way more important than any vitamin D 10000iu or calcium supplement). A person taking no vitamins whatsoever but weightbearing will have much faster growth than someone very sedentary and taking all the supplements in the world (in my opinion weightbearing is the only thing that matters to determine callus bone growth)

You don't even have to walk if not practical like as you are doing like an office job, walking is preferred but you can conjure a standing desk setup and just stand prolonged periods daily. Most important is just femur bone resisting gravity, pushing it down



Good on you for noticing it as well, you are on the path to recover strong 💪🏻

Cheers razal
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: las vegas baby on February 06, 2021, 02:33:58 PM
(way more important than any vitamin D 10000iu or calcium supplement). A person taking no vitamins whatsoever but weightbearing will have much faster growth than someone very sedentary and taking all the supplements in the world (in my opinion weightbearing is the only thing that matters to determine callus bone growth)

broscientist ghkid2021 highest honors
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: las vegas baby on February 06, 2021, 02:36:08 PM
razal my man great going! assayag seems like he really cares. can you ask him about the nuvasive precice stryde mess please? we'd love to know what he things about all those risks like odd bone formation, material leakage and cancer / tumors.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Tartar on February 06, 2021, 05:40:45 PM
From what I've verified, if you don't put any pressure/weight on the bone and just laze on the bed, it will not create any new "fiber" (you'll not see NEW lines between the 2 parts of the bone), even if the already present bone tissue will get thicker and closer to the nail.
That's what happens when the bone is healed enough and there are not movements in the nail so it just tends to remodel.

So yes, even walk with crutches is very useful, walking aided at least a couple of hours every day is very important. Even if it looks so easy and trivial, it's more important than all the PT you can do on the floor or on the bed.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: 6CMFemurs on February 06, 2021, 07:36:21 PM
@Raz: I had this same problem too at 4 CM and was able to clear it up in 2 weeks. I don’t have time rn to write a super long post with everything Paley had me do,  but if you want to chat, just PM me.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 06, 2021, 10:33:15 PM
Thank you ALL OF YOU! I really appreciate this! Much Love <3

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 06, 2021, 10:34:29 PM
PT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_z7dPO3T0s
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 08, 2021, 04:17:37 AM
Pooping and Peeing after Leg Lengthening Surgery  :o 8)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25jfEEEV7yQ
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: precice strider on February 08, 2021, 05:05:12 AM
Lol that title is all you need to make every 5 year old boy laugh
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 09, 2021, 01:43:06 PM
It has been about a week since I have started to Drive :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65y_BofXWcY
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 16, 2021, 01:09:38 AM
Visit to Dr. Assayag. Bone growth was little better than before. It had only been 3-4 days that I started to walk more so the results you see are not that great but still better than my previous visit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mfz8r-U_eyQ
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 16, 2021, 01:13:09 AM
Questions from Dr. Assayag






http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVTlDxmwR3g
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Dirona on February 16, 2021, 09:53:40 AM
Good stuf Razal..The bone is growing slowly but surely..Did you ask the doctor on what factors help in bone growth?Is it just putting pressure or is it just plain old genetics?Can we do something pre LL or test pre LL for this?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 17, 2021, 09:11:05 PM
It ended up being mixture of things.

Like the other guys on this forum pointed out it was standing up more and taking Vit D and Calcium

- I was not walking enough so more weight bearing was needed
- I started to take more Vitamin D and Calcium
- I was not eating much and Dr. Assayag instructed me to increase protein and other nutrients



Good stuf Razal..The bone is growing slowly but surely..Did you ask the doctor on what factors help in bone growth?Is it just putting pressure or is it just plain old genetics?Can we do something pre LL or test pre LL for this?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Shadow91 on February 18, 2021, 07:11:47 AM
Looking good! As you stated earlier, eat, move more and you will be fine. Remember, keep a positive mindset ;)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: permanentlybanned on February 18, 2021, 07:38:09 AM
Razal,

In order of importance for bone generation:
Weightbearing 75% - 95% (Wolff's law of bones)
Food 20%
Vitamins 5%

As you can see, weight bearing is the most important thing, even if you don't take vitamins it's fine

Just if you're doing office work or vibing on YouTube, just stand and watch or do work. Tiring but worth. Stand stand stand and walk if you have energy but stand otherwise

Glad Dr. A said you're bone is doing better. There is big hope to resolve the lack of callus!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: 6CMFemurs on February 18, 2021, 11:05:05 AM
@ghkid2021,

I would caution you against giving people advice that it is fine not to take vitamins and that nutrients are only a small percentage of bone consolidation. When I got my lengthening done, the protocol for delayed consolidation was:

1) Slow down the rate of lengthening
2) Monitor and increase Vitamin D level
3) Monitor and increase calcium and nutritional intake
4) Encourage more weight-bearing as tolerated and within the restrictions of the lengthening device.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: th on February 18, 2021, 11:16:08 AM
ghkid really hasn't got a clue
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: permanentlybanned on February 18, 2021, 11:22:00 AM
I'm not saying actively DONT TAKE VITAMINS (why the fück would I encourage that), I'm literally just putting a hypothetical to emphasize the weight of the importance of weightbearing compared to other things

The reality is, most people have enough vitamins. if anything there's a misinformation about the dosage of vitamin D. 5000iu or less is not even enough to support the real RDA (not the fake 800iu RDA that hasn't been updated in decades). I cringe when I see doctors prescribing 2000ius for vitamin D deficiency. 10k minimum a day.

Just to put it out there so I don't get sued: I recommend to take all your vitamins, eat all the fücking food you can and nutrients, but most importantly stand and walk and weightbear.

U know I was never implied in that comment to actively say not take vitamins but of course that's how forums work people dervive strawman arguments . U know what I meant. Twist my intent words. Chose to give more fuel to the argumentative user "th"
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Tartar on February 18, 2021, 11:26:29 AM
I've checked on myself, 1 month without touching the ground and 1 month full/partial weight bearing. This is the most important factor as often said. It's not important to strictly full weight bearing but just to constantly stimulate the bone with a good pressure according to your nail tolerance. Supplements are not so useful actually, it's very important be sure to don't have a lack about them though; they are naturally produced by your body for the most. A good nutrition is enough often, take them to be sure to don't have any problem related to, but don't expect any miracle by them, but after the distraction is almost always a good idea to take them.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: th on February 18, 2021, 11:29:14 AM
u just need the right foods - that's what a supplement may replace...
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: las vegas baby on February 19, 2021, 07:18:11 AM
thanks for asking my question razal. I appreciate it.

and dont listen to that ghkid. listen to your doctor. lots of people heal even without weightbearing. its all random. dont start walking too much because you read it here.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: permanentlybanned on February 19, 2021, 07:48:41 AM
Dr. A is also telling him to weightbear more so.. lol 😳

Definitely eat food and vitamins in addition, obviously. But focus shud be weightbearing 💪🏻
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: 6CMFemurs on February 19, 2021, 08:31:14 AM
I'm not saying actively DONT TAKE VITAMINS (why the fück would I encourage that), I'm literally just putting a hypothetical to emphasize the weight of the importance of weightbearing compared to other things

The reality is, most people have enough vitamins. if anything there's a misinformation about the dosage of vitamin D. 5000iu or less is not even enough to support the real RDA (not the fake 800iu RDA that hasn't been updated in decades). I cringe when I see doctors prescribing 2000ius for vitamin D deficiency. 10k minimum a day.

Just to put it out there so I don't get sued: I recommend to take all your vitamins, eat all the fücking food you can and nutrients, but most importantly stand and walk and weightbear.

U know I was never implied in that comment to actively say not take vitamins but of course that's how forums work people dervive strawman arguments . U know what I meant. Twist my intent words. Chose to give more fuel to the argumentative user "th"

@GH Kid: I don't want to hijack this guy's diary with this, so this is the last thing I'll say on the topic. The problem was you said 75-95% weight-bearing.. 20 percent nutrition... 5 percent vitamin, etc, and now you are writing about how much Vitamin D doctors should and shouldn't prescribe. I know your intentions are good but you are spreading your opinion (that has no basis in medical knowledge or your experience as a patient) and other people who either haven't had the surgery or are in the process of lengthening are internalizing it.


 

 
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Tomhard on February 19, 2021, 09:10:46 AM
Razal,

In order of importance for bone generation:
Weightbearing 75% - 95% (Wolff's law of bones)
Food 20%
Vitamins 5%

As you can see, weight bearing is the most important thing, even if you don't take vitamins it's fine

Just if you're doing office work or vibing on YouTube, just stand and watch or do work. Tiring but worth. Stand stand stand and walk if you have energy but stand otherwise

Glad Dr. A said you're bone is doing better. There is big hope to resolve the lack of callus!

Stop spreading bull . You have no clue what youre talking about.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: kpa on February 19, 2021, 10:57:45 AM
Dr. A is also telling him to weightbear more so.. lol 😳

Definitely eat food and vitamins in addition, obviously. But focus shud be weightbearing 💪🏻

how many doctors u goin to u funny but talk
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 21, 2021, 02:06:32 AM
Slant Board

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWiBpFQ515s
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on February 21, 2021, 03:51:38 AM
Thanks RD! As always, I very much appreciate your videos and I know they take a lot of time and effort. I’m glad to hear you’re doing well and look forward to continuing to hear good news. It must be great to be almost 2/3 of the way there 😁; Stay strong 💪
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: canterk on February 26, 2021, 03:26:18 PM
Thanks for posting vids. They're really helpful. Wish you the very best in your journey!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Dirona on February 26, 2021, 03:46:13 PM
Hey Razal...How is your bone growth?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: overandover on February 26, 2021, 04:12:43 PM
hey Raaz,

As you are working during the distraction phase, How's your focus? Are you able to work comfortably? How many days after the surgery did you start working?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 27, 2021, 05:08:56 PM
Hi there,

Bone is growing but not as fast. Last visit to Dr. Assayag we decided to start doing the accordion method. So now aside from my regular 0.5mm lengthening , i am also lengthening  by 0.25mm and then shortening by 0.25mm everyday. Dr. Assayag is hoping that will fast track the bone growth

Hey Razal...How is your bone growth?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 27, 2021, 05:09:57 PM
I started to work from home after 1 month. The first month my mind was cloudy. And I started to physically go to work 2 months after the surgery

hey Raaz,

As you are working during the distraction phase, How's your focus? Are you able to work comfortably? How many days after the surgery did you start working?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 27, 2021, 06:16:38 PM
Bone is growing but not as fast. Dr. Assayag decided to start doing the accordion method. So far I have lengthened 5cm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyhjlCwDIWc
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on February 27, 2021, 07:29:21 PM
Congrats on 5cm RD. The end is finally in sight!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Dirona on February 28, 2021, 06:49:51 AM
Nice..good luck!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: canterk on February 28, 2021, 10:50:40 AM
wow, congrats on 5cm!!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Limbfan2020 on February 28, 2021, 12:56:10 PM
Congrats dude! There is a clear bone formation! What'S ur age exactly?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 28, 2021, 05:49:20 PM
Thank you guys! I am getting there :)


Congrats on 5cm RD. The end is finally in sight!

Nice..good luck!

wow, congrats on 5cm!!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on February 28, 2021, 05:50:40 PM
I am 38. Yea I felt a lot better at this last visit

Congrats dude! There is a clear bone formation! What'S ur age exactly?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Vibes on February 28, 2021, 06:36:20 PM
So glad to see you doing "better" RD  8) (not that you were ever doing bad!)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 03, 2021, 04:00:53 AM
Thank you Vibes  ;D


So glad to see you doing "better" RD  8) (not that you were ever doing bad!)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 03, 2021, 04:04:14 AM
Emotional Rollercoaster

Just some ramblings....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcd4z8YVQQA
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: 6CMFemurs on March 03, 2021, 05:05:48 AM
Emotional Rollercoaster

Just some ramblings....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcd4z8YVQQA

Great job man! Stay strong!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on March 03, 2021, 05:42:00 AM
Thanks for another great video, RD.  You’re an inspiration to all LLers and especially me. Stay strong amd keep up the good work!  😎
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Bantem on March 03, 2021, 06:51:02 AM
What was the cost?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Shadow91 on March 03, 2021, 09:25:45 AM
Your best video yet mate! I love that you talk about the fears about the surgery, that is something i think about all the time. Btw congrats to the 2 inches, keep fighting. You are almost there!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Erkan on March 03, 2021, 10:06:58 AM
Wow great video! Thank you!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: canterk on March 03, 2021, 11:38:54 AM
Thanks for the latest video. I've watched all your videos and I will rewatch them once I go through my own surgery. Thank you so much RD for taking the time to make these and I'm looking forward to more vids especially your after-consolidation recovery updates in the future. hope you can still share with us those things!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Kal el on March 03, 2021, 09:49:20 PM
Excellant video RD gr8 info. keep going u got his....btw how wht's ur age at the moment??
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: more on March 05, 2021, 04:34:14 PM
Real diary
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: overandover on March 05, 2021, 06:44:48 PM
Great video!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 06, 2021, 03:36:15 AM
Thank you everyone <3

@Kal el, I am 38 years old
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: more on March 06, 2021, 06:41:24 PM
You are a warrior
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ronman on March 08, 2021, 10:49:34 AM
What a terrific journal and series of videos.

Thank you Raz, it really calmed my soul watching and reading.

All the best of luck to you.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 15, 2021, 12:28:23 AM
Calus is looking good but one side bone formation is little concave (not thick enough). May need a bone graft if not improve

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9C6iH8uawJo
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 16, 2021, 04:12:42 AM
Status update @ little over 2 inch lengthening

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzX6ZW0aw5c
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on March 16, 2021, 04:26:27 AM
Wow, time flies (well maybe for an outsider like me) 3 months already?! I’m sure time didn’t fly by for you maybe?  How’s the new height feel? Thanks for the update and stay strong 💪 - one more inch to go! 😁
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Serilium on March 16, 2021, 05:42:22 AM
Razal,

You look alot taller now after 2 inch than early videos

I hope you heal and recover soon!

Cheers
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RealLostSoul on March 19, 2021, 10:12:54 AM
This log is gold. Really appreciating you are doing this! And keep pushing bro you are almost there
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: FSchez on March 19, 2021, 08:34:02 PM
Status update @ little over 2 inch lengthening

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzX6ZW0aw5c
Hi Razal!!
A few days ago I saw your diary and I was quite surprised that you showed yourself in the videos without any problem ... Your videos are very good !! I feel identified with you because I am in the same process, I had surgery on January 23 of this year and I have a little more than 4 cm of lengthening ... I am also over 30 years old, I am 34, I am happy at home with my wife and our 2 children, but I've always been uncomfortable with my height, that's why I decided to have the surgery femurs with stryde ... I'm glad to see that you are walking better and better and I hope you will achieve your goal soon. I wish you good luck friend. Thanks for your great diary !!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 29, 2021, 03:01:00 AM
yep I am surprised at how fast the time flies. More surprising is how quickly you get used to your new height :)

Wow, time flies (well maybe for an outsider like me) 3 months already?! I’m sure time didn’t fly by for you maybe?  How’s the new height feel? Thanks for the update and stay strong 💪 - one more inch to go! 😁
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 29, 2021, 03:02:28 AM
Thank you everyone <3.   :)


This log is gold. Really appreciating you are doing this! And keep pushing bro you are almost there


Razal,

You look alot taller now after 2 inch than early videos

I hope you heal and recover soon!

Cheers

Hi Razal!!
A few days ago I saw your diary and I was quite surprised that you showed yourself in the videos without any problem ... Your videos are very good !! I feel identified with you because I am in the same process, I had surgery on January 23 of this year and I have a little more than 4 cm of lengthening ... I am also over 30 years old, I am 34, I am happy at home with my wife and our 2 children, but I've always been uncomfortable with my height, that's why I decided to have the surgery femurs with stryde ... I'm glad to see that you are walking better and better and I hope you will achieve your goal soon. I wish you good luck friend. Thanks for your great diary !!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 29, 2021, 03:03:37 AM
FOOD and Leg Lengthening

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3662vazXTQ
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on March 29, 2021, 03:37:34 AM
After watching your video I mixed a extra protein shake for tonight lol.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 30, 2021, 09:37:57 PM
LOLZZZ  ;D

After watching your video I mixed a extra protein shake for tonight lol.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 30, 2021, 09:38:41 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Unrlj1qJNfg
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Serilium on March 30, 2021, 10:59:11 PM
no more keto razal  :( eat protein and carbs but mostly protein and binge eat!!!

sorry for the issues. hopefully shortening will help immensely! this will get better
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: itseasy on March 31, 2021, 10:02:35 AM
Ok guys, I’m going to get a lot of flack for saying this, but hear me out!!

The absolute best drug that SHOULD be used to help, not only bone callous formation but leg and butt muscles as well is a anabolic Steroid called Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca for short). Ya ya ya, I know I know, steroids are bad, yada yada yada. But I promise you, all the opiates and NSAID’s are wreaking havoc already on your liver more than you know, not to mentions other risks.

Deca WILL help you recover bone faster, build muscle quicker, put you in a way better mood, increase energy and make you feel alive on top of all that.

Now, the doctors are going to really balk at the idea of prescribing steroids because there is such a bad stigma around it. But it doesn’t make sense to me, when getting opiates are easily prescribed and there is way more risk associated with abuse on those.

Want to build your bone quick and get those quads and glutes back in business??? Get deca. It will change your life. Research google for yourself and read studies.

I’m not going to get into my situation, but let’s just put it this way.... all the opiates I took during distraction DESTROYED my testosterone levels.  Now I started to understand why all these patients had such yo-yo affects on mood during distraction and recovery. Once I started pinning that magical man juice in me....WOW, I felt like a million bucks and with weeks my legs were gaing strength as record speed, not to mention the rapid bone callous growth. Yes, you have to train on leg press, obviously watching weight limits, but Jesus Christ it made a huge difference in a few weeks.

Added side benifit is my upper body starred to look real nice as well. Try it!!!!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Serilium on March 31, 2021, 11:55:09 AM
Ok guys, I’m going to get a lot of flack for saying this, but hear me out!!

The absolute best drug that SHOULD be used to help, not only bone callous formation but leg and butt muscles as well is a anabolic Steroid called Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca for short). Ya ya ya, I know I know, steroids are bad, yada yada yada. But I promise you, all the opiates and NSAID’s are wreaking havoc already on your liver more than you know, not to mentions other risks.

Deca WILL help you recover bone faster, build muscle quicker, put you in a way better mood, increase energy and make you feel alive on top of all that.

Now, the doctors are going to really balk at the idea of prescribing steroids because there is such a bad stigma around it. But it doesn’t make sense to me, when getting opiates are easily prescribed and there is way more risk associated with abuse on those.

Want to build your bone quick and get those quads and glutes back in business??? Get deca. It will change your life. Research google for yourself and read studies.

I’m not going to get into my situation, but let’s just put it this way.... all the opiates I took during distraction DESTROYED my testosterone levels.  Now I started to understand why all these patients had such yo-yo affects on mood during distraction and recovery. Once I started pinning that magical man juice in me....WOW, I felt like a million bucks and with weeks my legs were gaing strength as record speed, not to mention the rapid bone callous growth. Yes, you have to train on leg press, obviously watching weight limits, but Jesus Christ it made a huge difference in a few weeks.

Added side benifit is my upper body starred to look real nice as well. Try it!!!!

controversial for sure.. but i think this has some merit.. all options on table before needing bone graft... perhaps razal should ask dr. Assayg for this drug
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on March 31, 2021, 04:00:00 PM
Ok guys, I’m going to get a lot of flack for saying this, but hear me out!!

The absolute best drug that SHOULD be used to help, not only bone callous formation but leg and butt muscles as well is a anabolic Steroid called Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca for short). Ya ya ya, I know I know, steroids are bad, yada yada yada. But I promise you, all the opiates and NSAID’s are wreaking havoc already on your liver more than you know, not to mentions other risks.

Deca WILL help you recover bone faster, build muscle quicker, put you in a way better mood, increase energy and make you feel alive on top of all that.

Now, the doctors are going to really balk at the idea of prescribing steroids because there is such a bad stigma around it. But it doesn’t make sense to me, when getting opiates are easily prescribed and there is way more risk associated with abuse on those.

Want to build your bone quick and get those quads and glutes back in business??? Get deca. It will change your life. Research google for yourself and read studies.

I’m not going to get into my situation, but let’s just put it this way.... all the opiates I took during distraction DESTROYED my testosterone levels.  Now I started to understand why all these patients had such yo-yo affects on mood during distraction and recovery. Once I started pinning that magical man juice in me....WOW, I felt like a million bucks and with weeks my legs were gaing strength as record speed, not to mention the rapid bone callous growth. Yes, you have to train on leg press, obviously watching weight limits, but Jesus Christ it made a huge difference in a few weeks.

Added side benifit is my upper body starred to look real nice as well. Try it!!!!

This stuff sounds like magic. Did you get a prescription from your LL doctor or your PCP? I'm haven't had any post-consolidation X-rays yet so I don't know how my bones are growing, but recovering faster sound great. I'd like to join normal society again asap.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: AllinStryde on March 31, 2021, 06:33:21 PM
This is a very cool diary.  Thanks for making it, I am very impressed with the videos.  I had the SAME thing occur with my lengthening.  However, it was with the medial aspect.  My surgery was done almost 1.5 years ago, not quite.  I get rod-removal x-rays in mid-May to assess if they are ready to come out.  There was talk of me possibly having to get a new, permanent rod placed if the bone didn't fill in enough.  I was in my late 30's when I had this done as well.  Wondering if age is affecting the bone growth, or lack of shall I say.  I had to stop early as well due to tightness.  I did PT every day and some stretching daily on my own.  People don't understand how F'ing tight everything gets.  But it DOES go away after a while and the waddle disappears and you get back to a normal walk.  This procedure takes several years to recover from...just a note to prospective LL'ers.  You all will NOT be returning to Crossfit for a very, very long time.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 31, 2021, 06:34:06 PM
Sure I will ask Dr. Assayag next time I see him

controversial for sure.. but i think this has some merit.. all options on table before needing bone graft... perhaps razal should ask dr. Assayg for this drug
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Going-For-Three on March 31, 2021, 06:34:20 PM
Ok guys, I’m going to get a lot of flack for saying this, but hear me out!!

The absolute best drug that SHOULD be used to help, not only bone callous formation but leg and butt muscles as well is a anabolic Steroid called Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca for short). Ya ya ya, I know I know, steroids are bad, yada yada yada. But I promise you, all the opiates and NSAID’s are wreaking havoc already on your liver more than you know, not to mentions other risks.

Deca WILL help you recover bone faster, build muscle quicker, put you in a way better mood, increase energy and make you feel alive on top of all that.

Now, the doctors are going to really balk at the idea of prescribing steroids because there is such a bad stigma around it. But it doesn’t make sense to me, when getting opiates are easily prescribed and there is way more risk associated with abuse on those.

Want to build your bone quick and get those quads and glutes back in business??? Get deca. It will change your life. Research google for yourself and read studies.

I’m not going to get into my situation, but let’s just put it this way.... all the opiates I took during distraction DESTROYED my testosterone levels.  Now I started to understand why all these patients had such yo-yo affects on mood during distraction and recovery. Once I started pinning that magical man juice in me....WOW, I felt like a million bucks and with weeks my legs were gaing strength as record speed, not to mention the rapid bone callous growth. Yes, you have to train on leg press, obviously watching weight limits, but Jesus Christ it made a huge difference in a few weeks.

Added side benifit is my upper body starred to look real nice as well. Try it!!!!
Did you tell Debiparshad you were on deca? What was his response?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on March 31, 2021, 06:36:07 PM
very well put. 100% agree on being tight and getting back to Crossfit

This is a very cool diary.  Thanks for making it, I am very impressed with the videos.  I had the SAME thing occur with my lengthening.  However, it was with the medial aspect.  My surgery was done almost 1.5 years ago, not quite.  I get rod-removal x-rays in mid-May to assess if they are ready to come out.  There was talk of me possibly having to get a new, permanent rod placed if the bone didn't fill in enough.  I was in my late 30's when I had this done as well.  Wondering if age is affecting the bone growth, or lack of shall I say.  I had to stop early as well due to tightness.  I did PT every day and some stretching daily on my own.  People don't understand how F'ing tight everything gets.  But it DOES go away after a while and the waddle disappears and you get back to a normal walk.  This procedure takes several years to recover from...just a note to prospective LL'ers.  You all will NOT be returning to Crossfit for a very, very long time.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Going-For-Three on March 31, 2021, 06:42:47 PM
OP, a few papers you can present to Assayag to make a more compelling case:
https://academic.oup.com/biomedgerontology/article/60/5/648/561420 (elderly women)
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12306-019-00621-2  (rats)
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321805674_Nandrolone_decanoate_appears_to_increase_bone_callus_formation_in_young_adult_rats_after_a_complete_femoral_fracture (also rats)

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Going-For-Three on March 31, 2021, 07:47:36 PM
I just want to emphasize that you will get through this bro! If it was easy everyone would do it, no pain no gain. You have a great surgeon on your team who won't let anything bad ever happen to you. You also have a weight-bearing nail which means a little delay is really no big deal in the long run.

Just wanted to add this as I know you mentioned butchers in foreign countries in one of your videos and reading those diaries makes you feel really awful, even when you're doing LL in the US. Rooting for you man, you got this!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: itseasy on March 31, 2021, 10:43:33 PM
Did you tell Debiparshad you were on deca? What was his response?


I plead the 5th. Subject is to sketchy because of the stupid stigma placed on steroids all because of dumb ass sports controversies. Dr’s are VERY VERY gun shy to even prescribe anabolic steroids because of the irrational stigma it represents.

But boy, watch that bone callous cortex appear like magic. And for those of you that remember the weakness in your legs just to get out of bed, just watch and see how your quads and glutes blow up with even the simplest weight training.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: itseasy on March 31, 2021, 10:57:09 PM
Another thing I want to emphasize is that all the opiates we have been taking completely devastate your natural testosterone levels. Your estrogen probably rises as well, which would explain my bouts of emotional distress during the distraction process.

I felt like a MAN again once I got on the roids
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Going-For-Three on April 01, 2021, 05:40:27 AM

I plead the 5th. Subject is to sketchy because of the stupid stigma placed on steroids all because of dumb ass sports controversies. Dr’s are VERY VERY gun shy to even prescribe anabolic steroids because of the irrational stigma it represents.

But boy, watch that bone callous cortex appear like magic. And for those of you that remember the weakness in your legs just to get out of bed, just watch and see how your quads and glutes blow up with even the simplest weight training.
That's kinda risky considering your other medications could have had some contraindications -- but as you said, you seem to have recovered fine.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Erkan on April 01, 2021, 09:44:55 AM
FOOD and Leg Lengthening

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3662vazXTQ

Hey Razal,
Thats a very important point. i can remember that my doctor kept repeating that i have to eat well. I am glad that he repeated that many times so I became aware of the importance of it. if he had mentioned it only once, maybe I would not have taken it too seriously. In the first few weeks after the surgery, I really ate everything I could and still lost minimal weight! but i think that has also something to do with muscle loss. I do also recommend to start taking vitamin D before the surgery!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: itseasy on April 01, 2021, 11:09:04 AM
Hey Razal,
Thats a very important point. i can remember that my doctor kept repeating that i have to eat well. I am glad that he repeated that many times so I became aware of the importance of it. if he had mentioned it only once, maybe I would not have taken it too seriously. In the first few weeks after the surgery, I really ate everything I could and still lost minimal weight! but i think that has also something to do with muscle loss. I do also recommend to start taking vitamin D before the surgery!

I want every prospective LL’r to know that it is HARD AS HELL to want to eat when you are constantly high in opiates, which you undoubtably need during distraction. I always knew I had to eat but the drive and ambition to even get up and get food was dead. Not to mention you have to eat hella calories just to maintain weight and any strength left in your muscles. Once you get to 6cm and you keep going, you start to really feel all kinds of tightness from hell and the last thing you are thinking of is scarfing down food and keeping that belly full. The only thing you’ll want to eat are those Percacets to make you get through the day as you lay in bed and struggle with the very limited range of motion you are contending with.

Raza, I’ll tell you this though. I am just about fully consolidated and you’ll be back in the gym soon and walking fully unassisted. I’m still dealing with some stupid penguin waddling 6 months post op at about 7.8 CM but I can almost pull off looking like a normal person if I portray somewhat of a gangsta sway....lol!!! It gets better. But like the poster said above, it takes time.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 01, 2021, 01:51:14 PM
o man 7.8 cm pretty impressive :) Congratulations! I agree with you that the waddle and the gait may take some time to completely normalize



I want every prospective LL’r to know that it is HARD AS HELL to want to eat when you are constantly high in opiates, which you undoubtably need during distraction. I always knew I had to eat but the drive and ambition to even get up and get food was dead. Not to mention you have to eat hella calories just to maintain weight and any strength left in your muscles. Once you get to 6cm and you keep going, you start to really feel all kinds of tightness from hell and the last thing you are thinking of is scarfing down food and keeping that belly full. The only thing you’ll want to eat are those Percacets to make you get through the day as you lay in bed and struggle with the very limited range of motion you are contending with.

Raza, I’ll tell you this though. I am just about fully consolidated and you’ll be back in the gym soon and walking fully unassisted. I’m still dealing with some stupid penguin waddling 6 months post op at about 7.8 CM but I can almost pull off looking like a normal person if I portray somewhat of a gangsta sway....lol!!! It gets better. But like the poster said above, it takes time.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Jenksz on April 05, 2021, 11:05:29 AM
o man 7.8 cm pretty impressive :) Congratulations! I agree with you that the waddle and the gait may take some time to completely normalize

Hey Raz - I've just signed up for this forum and have watched a number of your vids scrolling through this thread. Thank you so much for sharing your journey it has been most helpful.

Seeing Dr. Assayag also comment on Dr. Marie Gdalevitch in another thread was very reassuring after seeing how good he has been to you.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: more on April 12, 2021, 03:34:23 PM
How are you?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 18, 2021, 02:29:04 AM
So sorry for the absence  :-\

Aside from my regular job, I am also working on a new tech startup which siphoned the reaming time I used to have. I will make a video update.

But here is the summary:

- I started to take higher doses of Calcium, Magnesium and Vit. B3.
- x-ray continues to show improvement
- I am reaching my goal in about couple of days YAY  ;D of 67MM. So i will be stopping my lengthening pretty soon here
- If my concavish callus does not improve, Dr. Assayag will remove the screws on my rod in couple of months so I can exert more pressure on my bone and cause it to grow more callus. The bone graft is of course always present as an option if this does not improve.

So far things are OK. I will continue to get x-rays and monitor my progress



How are you?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Going-For-Three on April 19, 2021, 04:44:39 AM
Thanks for the update RD.

Have you talked to Assayag about bisphosphonates? They should help overall bone growth by preventing bone resorption. Usually, bones are built through a cycle of resorption (breakdown old bone), reversal (new bone-forming cells appear), and formation. I'm not sure 100% sure how LL affects the cycle, but I know for a fact Paley has recommended bisphosphonates to his patients in the past.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 20, 2021, 09:59:06 AM
Hi there

So if you lengthened 6.7cm

Does that show in actual height measurements I mean from your starting height to now so I have full 6.7 cm visible when you measure your self

I have gained 6.4 cm in distraction but only able to measure 5.8 cm actual height

Would be nice to know and also of we gain these lost mm
 Post distraction

Thanks
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on April 20, 2021, 02:24:17 PM
Hi there

So if you lengthened 6.7cm

Does that show in actual height measurements I mean from your starting height to now so I have full 6.7 cm visible when you measure your self

I have gained 6.4 cm in distraction but only able to measure 5.8 cm actual height

Would be nice to know and also of we gain these lost mm
 Post distraction

Thanks

Do you mean 6.4cm on the ERC? If so, then it's possible that the nail hasn't actually extended that much yet. The only way to tell for sure is to get an X-ray and even so, the doctor can't measure the distraction 100%. The only foolproof way to know how much you lengthened is to max each nail out to 8cm.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 20, 2021, 02:32:48 PM
6.4 on x ray

But in real height I’m .5 cm lesser when measuring myself

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on April 20, 2021, 03:41:24 PM
6.4 on x ray

But in real height I’m .5 cm lesser when measuring myself

It could be starting and ending height measured at different times during the day, anterior pelvic tilt increasing the curvature of your spine, X-ray readings have an error bar as well. It's going to be almost impossible to know what you actually lengthened unless you take measurements at different times in the day over a long period of time.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 20, 2021, 03:52:22 PM
Wonder how RAZAl is faring with this ?

I measure today at 182.5 cm so that’s

6 cm from starting  height of 176.5

Looks awesome now but .5 cm would just wrap it up nicely

But fatigue set in and this weird erratic heart beat.

So let’s see what’s in store
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Want-3-inches on April 25, 2021, 12:08:57 PM
So sorry for the absence  :-\

Aside from my regular job, I am also working on a new tech startup which siphoned the reaming time I used to have. I will make a video update.

But here is the summary:

- I started to take higher doses of Calcium, Magnesium and Vit. B3.
- x-ray continues to show improvement
- I am reaching my goal in about couple of days YAY  ;D of 67MM. So i will be stopping my lengthening pretty soon here
- If my concavish callus does not improve, Dr. Assayag will remove the screws on my rod in couple of months so I can exert more pressure on my bone and cause it to grow more callus. The bone graft is of course always present as an option if this does not improve.

So far things are OK. I will continue to get x-rays and monitor my progress

can't wait for your video Razal!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: FSchez on April 25, 2021, 03:20:01 PM
Hi guys !!
It happens the same to me too...
My latest X-rays show a 7 cm distraction and the actual height has only increased 6 cm ...
The curve of the back subtracts between half a cm and 1.5 cm, it depends on the degree of inclination of your lumbar area. In my case, my lower back is very curved, so much so that it is impossible to hit the middle of my back when I support my head and my legs against the wall.
I suppose that if we work the lower back well and regain the flexibility of our hips, over time we will gain those lost millimeters ...
By the way Razal, I am glad that you are already so close to your goal, and I hope that your bone goes better every day, surely you get it💪
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 25, 2021, 03:29:57 PM
Hey guys

This is what I was talking about

I lost around .8 cm

And recently I gained back .3 so only .5 cm is lost. It’s impossible for us to have full firstly doc said due to 3 dimenstional nature of bone. Besides all muscles being tight the posture is all messed up.

What did help me were resistance bands. If you can have it around pole or something solid and pull the bands towards your chest. The back gets an awesome posture and core also gets stronger supporting the back. Within a week I gained a few mm.

Fchez are u going for full 8.



Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Going-For-Three on April 25, 2021, 05:17:14 PM
Hi guys !!
It happens the same to me too...
My latest X-rays show a 7 cm distraction and the actual height has only increased 6 cm ...
The curve of the back subtracts between half a cm and 1.5 cm, it depends on the degree of inclination of your lumbar area. In my case, my lower back is very curved, so much so that it is impossible to hit the middle of my back when I support my head and my legs against the wall.
I suppose that if we work the lower back well and regain the flexibility of our hips, over time we will gain those lost millimeters ...
By the way Razal, I am glad that you are already so close to your goal, and I hope that your bone goes better every day, surely you get it💪
Do you mean the surgery + lengthening made your posture worse? If the posture is about the same before and after surgery, then the gain would have been normalized, I would imagine.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: FSchez on April 25, 2021, 06:24:48 PM
Hey guys

This is what I was talking about

I lost around .8 cm

And recently I gained back .3 so only .5 cm is lost. It’s impossible for us to have full firstly doc said due to 3 dimenstional nature of bone. Besides all muscles being tight the posture is all messed up.

What did help me were resistance bands. If you can have it around pole or something solid and pull the bands towards your chest. The back gets an awesome posture and core also gets stronger supporting the back. Within a week I gained a few mm.

Fchez are u going for full 8.

My goal is to achieve 8 cm, as long as my muscles hold ... I have only a few days left, so I think I will achieve it.
I know that the recovery will be more difficult than if I stop stretching now, but with my initial height (161.5 cms) my goal was to get as close as possible to 170 cms.
Thanks for the advice friend !!
I will practice it to improve the position of my back ;)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: FSchez on April 25, 2021, 06:29:55 PM
Do you mean the surgery + lengthening made your posture worse? If the posture is about the same before and after surgery, then the gain would have been normalized, I would imagine.

I think my posture worsened when I passed 5 cm, and every day it has gotten worse due to the tension in my hips ... I am sure that if I manage to correct my posture I will increase my initial height by almost 8 cm, although if I manage to increase 7.5 cm at my initial height I will be satisfied :D
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 26, 2021, 01:34:26 AM
Hi everyone,

So to be clear on ERC I have lengthened 73MM or 7.3 CM but in X-rays I am showing 69MM (6.9CM)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 26, 2021, 01:35:33 AM

Finally done with Lengthening  yay!  :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGOzvhzd8jw
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Serilium on April 26, 2021, 02:04:59 AM
I am so happy for you Razal!

Congratulations man! Not on just the height (you're almost as tall as Dr. Assayg now haha) but your feeling of height neurosis being cured. At the end of the day that is what we are here for. And there is no better feeling than to be free of those nagging thoughts in your head. It really changes things when your at the Baltimore zoo and not self conscious about your height but instead caring about real issues like your wife and son eh? Everything changes. We start to appreciate life more. And that is the best thing you can get from this surgery.

So happy for you. Not many diaries where I truly appreciate the author so much. Thanks for sharing your entire journey with us. 🙏🏻

🍻 🍻
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: BelowTheMean on April 26, 2021, 02:33:07 AM
Congrats on finishing lengthening, RD! I totally get that feeling of the lengthening phase dragging on after months and months. Do you feel like your gait and flexibility are a bit worse than they were in the middle of lengthening? It was like that for me at the end of lengthening, but my muscles have loosened up a lot since then. Are you going to continue going to PT? I'm still going, but I can't decide if it's worth it or not. I feel like the consolidation phase is starting to drag on for me as well because I was expecting to have a normal gait by this point, but I'm not quite there yet. Best of luck fighting the tightness!

Also, thanks for reminding me, I need to return my ERCs to Nuvasive! ;D
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on April 26, 2021, 04:45:07 AM
Congrats, RD!! Very happpy for you 😄. Thanks again for all the insights and being so open about sharing your journey - very helpful and much appreciated!!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Going-For-Three on April 26, 2021, 05:10:37 AM
Congrats RD! 7cm is nothing to sneeze at brother!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Want-3-inches on April 26, 2021, 05:35:33 AM
Man Razal I am REALLY happy for you. In one of the camera angles I see from your perspective and you almost look eye level with Dr Assayag.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 26, 2021, 06:07:55 AM
Congrats brother

Looking good. I’m also tagging along behind you and thank you for your videos.

I agree last phase of reaching goal and constant repetition of lengthening day after day gets mentally exhausting.

Btw I got answers for our questions on adjustment of vessels and organs like heart for the increased height

The answer was this no doctor has had extensive research in field of long term effects of limb lengthening.  However data suggests that taller people have less high blood pressure issues.

The right way to ascertain the effects would be for every cll patient to have his ultrasound and ecg before surgery and after surgery have that monitored to see difference if any in the organs or flow of blood.

I think doctors should inform patients and we should have this data for ourselves to be able to know this for future.

So if you want you can get an ultra sound and have that taken evenly 3 months to see what difference arises and if al truly adjusts.

Hope I was able to help with that.

Once again congrats on your journey and hope consolidation goes smooth

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Want-3-inches on April 26, 2021, 08:11:49 AM
Yup I posted a video from Dr Assayag in another thread. Clinical examination seems to be the main way by which this procedure is considered to be safe to perform.

Like you said it would be good if doctors performed more detailed research. They can use unilateral cases too. Especially because the ethical dilemma of CLL is so high, it would be worthwhile to have every bit of research in place to help everyone take an informed decision.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 26, 2021, 11:23:38 AM
Agreed

I wish I had done my ultrasound and ecg before surgery and not just blood tests

This way i would have had more data to compare with for long run. 

I guess only person with over 20 years of experience in this is PALEY.

If someone can ask PALEY to give accurate information on this would be very beneficial

But I know some of his patients who have done 15 cm are all fine and healthy

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: FSchez on April 26, 2021, 11:25:10 AM
Finally done with Lengthening  yay!  :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGOzvhzd8jw

Congratulations Razal !!
I hope that your recovery in the recovery phase is as good as possible and that you regain your way of walking as before the operation.
I'm sure you will get it soon
Stay strong my friend !!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Want-3-inches on April 26, 2021, 12:20:42 PM
Agreed

I wish I had done my ultrasound and ecg before surgery and not just blood tests

This way i would have had more data to compare with for long run. 

I guess only person with over 20 years of experience in this is PALEY.

If someone can ask PALEY to give accurate information on this would be very beneficial

But I know some of his patients who have done 15 cm are all fine and healthy

Hmm you're probably the best to ask Paley since you're a current patient ;)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 26, 2021, 12:51:49 PM
Victor from cyborg for life best person as he gives doctors mileage

I was a patient till I didn’t pay fees.

Once fees paid surgery done than PALEY leaves you with his assistants

lol
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Tartar on April 26, 2021, 08:09:10 PM
Finally done with Lengthening  yay!  :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGOzvhzd8jw
Best whishes! You deserve the best recovery possible :)
Congrats brother

Looking good. I’m also tagging along behind you and thank you for your videos.

I agree last phase of reaching goal and constant repetition of lengthening day after day gets mentally exhausting.

Btw I got answers for our questions on adjustment of vessels and organs like heart for the increased height

The answer was this no doctor has had extensive research in field of long term effects of limb lengthening.  However data suggests that taller people have less high blood pressure issues.

The right way to ascertain the effects would be for every cll patient to have his ultrasound and ecg before surgery and after surgery have that monitored to see difference if any in the organs or flow of blood.

I think doctors should inform patients and we should have this data for ourselves to be able to know this for future.

So if you want you can get an ultra sound and have that taken evenly 3 months to see what difference arises and if al truly adjusts.

Hope I was able to help with that.

Once again congrats on your journey and hope consolidation goes smooth


Don't bee hypochondriac. During the lenghtening and for months after I was always tired, no breath sometimes even after few steps, then it goes way better. At your stage you are still totally broken Idk what can you expect better than that. It's a very long journey.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 26, 2021, 10:30:03 PM
Thank you everyone <3
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 26, 2021, 10:31:13 PM
PT during consolidation

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o736q_QkfEU
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: billsmafia on April 27, 2021, 03:03:17 AM
Amazing!! RD can you do a video about proportions please (:
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 27, 2021, 06:50:18 AM
I have had best recovery here at institute in first 5 cm.

I was walking a km at 3,5 and was ready to max out nail going steady at 1mm

My issue didn’t arise in my head. I had severe erratic heartbeat. Being out of breath and tired I could handle. And then dimmer levels being high and elevating wasn’t a good sign.

Had I not increased level of heparin in time it could have been another story.

In any case I am not scared by it. I have only asked others as breathing has not been a complication for many. But I think o am to bottom of it.

It seems like a severe case of GERD due to all heparin and pain killers where stomach lining is all messed up and acid reflux is entering lungs causing this breathing.

Have started pills for same and in 3 days I already feel lot better.

Only reason I shared with all is for all to know as each body is different and reacts with different complications.

Where I thought my bone formation was going great and all going like text book I now have GERD issue which I would have never seen coming.

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RealLostSoul on April 27, 2021, 01:20:06 PM
Amazing!! RD can you do a video about proportions please (:

You notice nothing. Just look at his videos 3 inch in femur will never screw your proportions.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: John wick on April 27, 2021, 11:30:29 PM
He could do a tibia too and still normal . I barely see any changes in his proportions.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 28, 2021, 10:22:53 PM

My Height Neurosis after surgery and lengthening

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IchtEoSvEMA
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: L8GrowthSpurt on April 29, 2021, 12:20:41 AM
Thanks RD for another great vlog! Proportions look great. Can’t wait to hear about the reactions of others to your new height; congrats again 😁
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 29, 2021, 08:31:07 AM
Awesome brother

So so happy for you

I am sure tightness has now started to gradually decrease. Do you feel a difference in waking with tightness being lot less now

Btw proportions look awesome
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Eye2eyepls on April 30, 2021, 08:03:34 PM
So sorry for the absence  :-\

Aside from my regular job, I am also working on a new tech startup which siphoned the reaming time I used to have. I will make a video update.

But here is the summary:

- I started to take higher doses of Calcium, Magnesium and Vit. B3.
- x-ray continues to show improvement
- I am reaching my goal in about couple of days YAY  ;D of 67MM. So i will be stopping my lengthening pretty soon here
- If my concavish callus does not improve, Dr. Assayag will remove the screws on my rod in couple of months so I can exert more pressure on my bone and cause it to grow more callus. The bone graft is of course always present as an option if this does not improve.

So far things are OK. I will continue to get x-rays and monitor my progress
Hey Razal, thank you so much for sharing your history. I'm really glad you're getting great results so far! Are you afraid of feeling more pain in case you finally get the screws removed from you rod? Or that it could detract from your progress?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: PerfectBody on April 30, 2021, 08:37:44 PM
Raza, congratulations man! You're exhuding confidence and happiness in your recent videos, I'm really happy for you! Wow. I'm eagerly waiting for your next video!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 30, 2021, 08:45:01 PM
Thank you L8GrowthSpurt <3

Thanks RD for another great vlog! Proportions look great. Can’t wait to hear about the reactions of others to your new height; congrats again 😁
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 30, 2021, 08:47:23 PM
Hi Ah, nice to hear from you. I wish I was in Poland lol (nice place)

The tightness is decreasing but has not gone away. I do get pains here and there but I am walking daily on treadmill with high elevation for half hour everyday.

Walking is getting better everyday. I am going to work every other day now and that is causing me to walk more which in turn is helping my gait 


Awesome brother

So so happy for you

I am sure tightness has now started to gradually decrease. Do you feel a difference in waking with tightness being lot less now

Btw proportions look awesome
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 30, 2021, 08:49:23 PM
Hi Eye2eyepls,

The way I understood the screw removal is an outpatient procedure and would be similar to getting surgery and stiches and going home same day. Compared to what I been thru, the screw removal does not worry me   


Hey Razal, thank you so much for sharing your history. I'm really glad you're getting great results so far! Are you afraid of feeling more pain in case you finally get the screws removed from you rod? Or that it could detract from your progress?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 30, 2021, 08:49:54 PM
Thank you fivefootwhatever :)


Raza, congratulations man! You're exhuding confidence and happiness in your recent videos, I'm really happy for you! Wow. I'm eagerly waiting for your next video!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Ahd1978 on April 30, 2021, 09:02:17 PM
Hey brother

Just to give you more feedback

My breathing was combination of GERD due to all acid jn stomach from medicines which I am taking medicines for now.

Other result was in EKG of heart which shows an enlarged aorta and pressure on the left ventricle. Before surgery didn’t have this issue. Not blaming surgery for it.

But being 43 maybe adjustment in organs of body isn’t same as it would be for younger people. 

So my journey of distraction ends at 7 cm and I won’t be distracting further as no doctor is able to give me concrete answers on this enlarged aorta.

One has to monitor this dilation and in future if need be get minor surgery to fix the issue.

I love my new height at 183.5 distraction but net 183

However I wish to highlight to all cll patients that what I am going through can happen with anyone and to say let’s push it without thinking would be serious mistake. 

Our organs will go through major shift and all I suggest to all is have your pre surgery tests done on  organs and have those stats with you.

So post surgery easier to evaluate over time how hey adapt to surgery.

I will brief all in separate full diary. 

I will also be consolidating from next week RD so glad we in final stages of it.

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on April 30, 2021, 09:11:13 PM
Oh wow! 183! So cool dude!

many congrats to you and kudos for sticking to what YOU think is good for you and your body!
 


Hey brother

Just to give you more feedback

My breathing was combination of GERD due to all acid jn stomach from medicines which I am taking medicines for now.

Other result was in EKG of heart which shows an enlarged aorta and pressure on the left ventricle. Before surgery didn’t have this issue. Not blaming surgery for it.

But being 43 maybe adjustment in organs of body isn’t same as it would be for younger people. 

So my journey of distraction ends at 7 cm and I won’t be distracting further as no doctor is able to give me concrete answers on this enlarged aorta.

One has to monitor this dilation and in future if need be get minor surgery to fix the issue.

I love my new height at 183.5 distraction but net 183

However I wish to highlight to all cll patients that what I am going through can happen with anyone and to say let’s push it without thinking would be serious mistake. 

Our organs will go through major shift and all I suggest to all is have your pre surgery tests done on  organs and have those stats with you.

So post surgery easier to evaluate over time how hey adapt to surgery.

I will brief all in separate full diary. 

I will also be consolidating from next week RD so glad we in final stages of it.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: billsmafia on May 05, 2021, 06:25:31 AM
Looking great Raz. Would u be able to do proportion barefoot? And slightly bending knees? And Scars now?

Congratulation on nearing tail end of your journey. Fantastic.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Hagane on May 13, 2021, 06:02:21 AM
Finally done with Lengthening  yay!  :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGOzvhzd8jw

69mm
(https://i.redd.it/gm8i1jtiisa61.jpg)
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: AllinStryde on May 13, 2021, 06:26:47 PM
This is such a cool diary.  Congrats dude.  I did the exact same thing as you back in fall/winter of 2019.  While many people seem to not return to this forum after they are done, I come here all the time.  Doing LL is such a dramatic thing in your life that I can't just "forget" about it and move on.  I want to hear other people's stories, continue to read diaries, and answer questions for people along the way.  Some people can put it behind them 100%, but I definitely like to keep up with this specialized life-changing procedure.  Thanks for the great vids, don't get rid of them!  I haven't made it through all of them yet!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on May 15, 2021, 03:49:48 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2YBhTOHxNA
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Serilium on May 15, 2021, 04:30:31 AM
Awesome Razal. Love these "sit down & chat about life" videos. Really awesome man, I can tell your baseline happiness and optimism has just been rising. Finally you can fully focus on your career now and tunnel vision into success!

Cheers
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: billsmafia on May 15, 2021, 11:02:52 PM
Great update Raz. These videos are so helpful for the community.

I know you mentioned no proportion problem with shorts on, but how about when nked? Does it still look weird

Also in the next video could you show knee bending / squat motion with shorts on?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on June 08, 2021, 11:15:35 PM
Leg Lengthening's affect on Sexual Drive

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OX8DDZtg7Gg
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Hercules on June 10, 2021, 05:00:54 AM
MAIN POINTS FROM RAZALDAZAL’S VIDEO UPDATE “Sex after LL (part 49)”:

Hi guys,
RazalDazal’s latest video is super informative, I suggest you watch it.  However, if you’re not going do that I’ve summarized (below) some of the main points from his latest video. Enjoy!  Please note, I’m NOT RazalDazal, nor have I contacted him - I’m just someone who watches his videos.  So please do not send me questions about his situation, as I am just an observer.  -Hercules

At 5:00 in video:
RazalDazal says HE -MIGHT- NEED A SECOND SURGERY.  (The decision to move forward with a second surgery might be made during his next meeting with Doctor Assayag, when they review new x-ray images of his femurs in a couple weeks).  RazalDazal might need a second surgery because his bone callus is not forming sufficiently on the lateral side of both of his femurs.  In the second surgery Dr. Assayag would REMOVE HIS STRYDE NAILS AND REPLACE THEM WITH NON-WEIGHT BEARING TITANIUM RODS. Dr. Assayag would remove the Stryde nails during the second surgery because they might be hindering Razal’s bone callus formation. Replacing Stryde with non-weight bearing rods will cause RazalDazal to walk around with crutches which might help Razal to  put pressure on his legs which might help the bones recover.  Please watch the video for more info about that. A bone graft using stem cells would also be performed.  The goods news is that insurance might pay for the second surgery because the second surgery is addressing a COMPLICATION of the original cosmetic limb lengthening surgery. Dr. Assayag and his team are helping & talking to RazalDazal’s insurance company about this matter.  (To avoid any confusion, please note that insurance did not pay for the original limb lengthening surgery - insurance does not pay for cosmetic procedures).

At 1:10 in video:
RazalDazal says in response to people asking him this, that limb lengthening surgery did not cause erectile dysfunction or anything bad like that  He says he still has normal sexual function, so don’t worry about this issue if you are considering limb lengthening.  However, RazalDazal did not start having seks again until 3 months after the surgery because he didn’t feel like it in the first month and had pain in his (healing) legs if he tried it during the second month.

At 3:08 in video:
RazalDazal has been active in his house and yard, but his muscles in leg and buttocks are not at fully recovered yet.  For example he still cannot his bend legs fully so he cannot squat down all the way, and he needs to push himself off a chair with his arms for assistance.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on June 12, 2021, 03:36:53 AM
Update on how the gait is coming along

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq9Huc2wSmE
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Want-3-inches on June 12, 2021, 05:37:07 AM
MAIN POINTS FROM RAZALDAZAL’S VIDEO UPDATE “sxx after LL (part 49)”:

Hi guys,
RazalDazal’s latest video is super informative, I suggest you watch it.  However, if you’re not going do that I’ve summarized (below) some of the main points from his latest video. Enjoy!  Please note, I’m NOT RazalDazal, nor have I contacted him - I’m just someone who watches his videos.  So please do not send me questions about his situation, as I am just an observer.  -Hercules

At 5:00 in video:
RazalDazal says HE -MIGHT- NEED A SECOND SURGERY.  (The decision to move forward with a second surgery might be made during his next meeting with Doctor Assayag, when they review new x-ray images of his femurs in a couple weeks).  RazalDazal might need a second surgery because his bone callus is not forming sufficiently on the lateral side of both of his femurs.  In the second surgery Dr. Assayag would REMOVE HIS STRYDE NAILS AND REPLACE THEM WITH NON-WEIGHT BEARING TITANIUM RODS. Dr. Assayag would remove the Stryde nails during the second surgery because they might be hindering Razal’s bone callus formation. Replacing Stryde with non-weight bearing rods will cause RazalDazal to walk around with crutches which might help Razal to  put pressure on his legs which might help the bones recover.  Please watch the video for more info about that. A bone graft using stem cells would also be performed.  The goods news is that insurance might pay for the second surgery because the second surgery is addressing a COMPLICATION of the original cosmetic limb lengthening surgery. Dr. Assayag and his team are helping & talking to RazalDazal’s insurance company about this matter.  (To avoid any confusion, please note that insurance did not pay for the original limb lengthening surgery - insurance does not pay for cosmetic procedures).

At 1:10 in video:
RazalDazal says in response to people asking him this, that limb lengthening surgery did not cause erectile dysfunction or anything bad like that  He says he still has normal sxxual function, so don’t worry about this issue if you are considering limb lengthening.  However, RazalDazal did not start having seks again until 3 months after the surgery because he didn’t feel like it in the first month and had pain in his (healing) legs if he tried it during the second month.

At 3:08 in video:
RazalDazal has been active in his house and yard, but his muscles in leg and buttocks are not at fully recovered yet.  For example he still cannot his bend legs fully so he cannot squat down all the way, and he needs to push himself off a chair with his arms for assistance.
Thanks for the summary. Instead of replacing Stryde with non weight bearing rods, couldn't he be made to hold some dumbbells and made to walk so that his bones start to bear the weight?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on June 12, 2021, 01:17:55 PM
Hi Want-3-inches, I have been doing exactly the exercises u described. I will see in my next visit if there is any improvement. Ask for replacing the rod My guess is he was thinking to do that at the same time of doing bone grafting/Stem cell therapy


Thanks for the summary. Instead of replacing Stryde with non weight bearing rods, couldn't he be made to hold some dumbbells and made to walk so that his bones start to bear the weight?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: AllinStryde on June 15, 2021, 01:48:50 PM
Hey Razal, thanks for the entire diary, but your latest video caught my attention, for certain.  The EXACT same thing happened to me on the medial aspect.  I also had Stryde nail.  There is talk of perhaps placing permanent hardware in the area.  I did not know that insurance may assist in complication or corrective procedures after the initial procedure, I am going to delve into this further.  I am coming in at about 1.75 years post-op and it's time for the nails to come out.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on June 21, 2021, 01:26:35 AM
wow very interesting. So were you able to recover in your bone? If you are getting the rods out, I am assuming your bone grew ok?

During my last visit, we discussed different options and Dr. Assayag is still discussing those with the insurance.

That's the dilemma.... insurance stuff depends on what benefit plan you have.. moreover, your surgeon would want to deal with the insurance process in the first place for it to get approved. 


Hey Razal, thanks for the entire diary, but your latest video caught my attention, for certain.  The EXACT same thing happened to me on the medial aspect.  I also had Stryde nail.  There is talk of perhaps placing permanent hardware in the area.  I did not know that insurance may assist in complication or corrective procedures after the initial procedure, I am going to delve into this further.  I am coming in at about 1.75 years post-op and it's time for the nails to come out.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: RazalDazal on June 21, 2021, 01:27:29 AM
Are you still doing LL surgeries?:(0:00)
Is there an age limit for LL procedure?:(1:13)
When should we stop smoking before LL?:(2:00)
Updates on Stryde Availability?:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWL4wSDa_yI
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Apollo676 on June 21, 2021, 05:09:10 AM
End of 2022 for stryde seriously ? Is it like probable or they could even go for 2023 if they really need to make a new nail basically ?
That's really disappointing stryde was really something amazing i wish i had that surgery a few months ago
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Stretch on June 21, 2021, 05:47:46 AM
End of 2022 for stryde seriously ? Is it like probable or they could even go for 2023 if they really need to make a new nail basically ?
That's really disappointing stryde was really something amazing i wish i had that surgery a few months ago

Yes I also received the same answer from the team of Dr Paley 2022-2023
Is precise 2 not suitable for you?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: overandover on June 21, 2021, 01:47:02 PM
End of 2022 for stryde seriously ? Is it like probable or they could even go for 2023 if they really need to make a new nail basically ?
That's really disappointing stryde was really something amazing i wish i had that surgery a few months ago

Waiting for stryde is not at all worth it now. Precise is the only option apart from externals .
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Apollo676 on June 21, 2021, 02:50:25 PM
There is no way precise could support my weight ( 80kgs ),and i would be stuck in bed basically for a year,i might even consider externals on femurs at this point
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: V21 on June 22, 2021, 10:06:03 PM
There is no way precise could support my weight ( 80kgs ),and i would be stuck in bed basically for a year,i might even consider externals on femurs at this point
I know of a couple patients with that weight and they can use walker with no issue. I was 82 kg but I'm trying to cut as much weight as possible, right now at 75. You won't be able to weight bear, but using walker is possible.
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: billsmafia on August 06, 2021, 08:21:58 AM
What happen
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: SpeedDialer on August 31, 2021, 12:08:35 AM
Razal, thanks for making this amazing diary with video!

If you wanted to do nail removal with insurance with Assayag, what would you look into? My state health insurance marketplace for individuals doesn't have a PPO option and I'm outside of Maryland (but within driving distance of Assayag) so I am not sure any kind to get insurance that can cover nail removal

What might you do? Go to Parihar or Giotikas for nail removal or are there other cheap and safe options?
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Dreamer57 on December 05, 2021, 06:04:45 AM
Hey man, I saw you last video about things to do in Maryland! I am eagerly waiting for an update!! Would be really great if you can make a video about your gait, walking, running and other athletic activities...also a thorough update about your current status would be nice! All the best !!!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Petersburglength on January 26, 2022, 06:25:17 PM
Bump. Hope consolidation isn’t coming along okay Raz
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Height Journey on January 26, 2022, 09:48:20 PM
Bump. Hope consolidation isn’t coming along okay Raz

Hey, Raz will being doing a Live interview hosted by Cyborg4Life, along with a few other LL patients with a YouTube channel (including me), on Thursday, January 27 at 6pm EST.

Raz's YouTube channel name is strydenail

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMhc2ERk--U (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMhc2ERk--U)

Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Petersburglength on January 27, 2022, 02:33:54 AM
Hey, Raz will being doing a Live interview hosted by Cyborg4Life, along with a few other LL patients with a YouTube channel (including me), on Thursday, January 27 at 6pm EST.

Raz's YouTube channel name is strydenail

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMhc2ERk--U (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMhc2ERk--U)

Oh awesome, looking forward to it!
Title: Re: Femurs with Dr. Assayag in MD
Post by: Dirona on June 21, 2022, 08:14:29 AM
How are you doing?