Limb Lengthening Forum

Limb Lengthening Surgery => Limb Lengthening Patients Experiences => Topic started by: Jolien on March 18, 2019, 02:57:47 PM

Title: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 18, 2019, 02:57:47 PM
Hi everyone,

I'm a 22 year-old girl who did LON surgery 12th of February 2019 with Dr. Giotikas. I would love to share as much as I can but keep it a little clear. That's why I'm writing everything down in a google drive document. I hope it works, if not please let me know!!

Kind regards


https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kLRNzGUbKcTqfX_lj12FvojHiUgjS1yA?usp=sharing
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: jievince3 on March 18, 2019, 03:36:51 PM
Thanks for your share.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 18, 2019, 05:55:24 PM
One more diary from Dr Giotikas. Good.
Good luck with your journey.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: zlRadamanthys on March 19, 2019, 12:56:49 AM
Pleased to read a newspaper like that, I thought that giotikas did not perform LON or LATN, I would like to know a few comments about you which is your initial height, why you look super tall as a model and what is your size of American shoes, your feet They also look pretty long We appreciate your opinion, see that you are a very beautiful woman and I congratulate you for being so brave, I hope you get a good warrior!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: 177cmm on March 19, 2019, 10:08:42 AM
Haha i was like wtf, she is 187, i started feeling so bad with my 180  ::) My first thought when I noticed ur face was she wants to have long legs because she gonna be model or something like that, u look so pretty ;) good luck with ur journey, I'm gonna do surgery with dr. Giotkas in one year to reach 188/190, keep smile and diary for us.


Greetings
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 19, 2019, 10:14:51 AM
Hi everyone,

I'm a 22 year-old girl who did LON surgery 12th of February 2019 with Dr. Giotikas. I would love to share as much as I can but keep it a little clear. That's why I'm writing everything down in a google drive document. I hope it works, if not please let me know!!

Kind regards


https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kLRNzGUbKcTqfX_lj12FvojHiUgjS1yA?usp=sharing

Haha thank you! But no, I dont have any model-intentions ;) wow nice!! good luck!!!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: zlRadamanthys on March 19, 2019, 01:27:31 PM
wow I knew you were supremely tall but I do not imagine how much, your final height will be 191 cm which is a lot for a woman, plus you are a very nice woman so I think everyone was wondering if it is a requirement in modeling. I hope you keep telling your experience in the newspaper, forgive my English but I am from South America and I speak Spanish. I would like information about the price and the time that you will be in Greece, if you can provide me the mail of the dr I would thank you even more. Thank you very much and I wish you the best, anything will be there to help you.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 19, 2019, 01:58:29 PM
wow I knew you were supremely tall but I do not imagine how much, your final height will be 191 cm which is a lot for a woman, plus you are a very nice woman so I think everyone was wondering if it is a requirement in modeling. I hope you keep telling your experience in the newspaper, forgive my English but I am from South America and I speak Spanish. I would like information about the price and the time that you will be in Greece, if you can provide me the mail of the dr I would thank you even more. Thank you very much and I wish you the best, anything will be there to help you.

so this was a mistake haha I'm 167cm tall sorry for the mistake. The LON for me was 30.200 euros including everything besides food and stay. NORMALLY I stay here for 3 months..
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 19, 2019, 02:57:14 PM
1,67 is tall for a women
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: ok on March 19, 2019, 06:00:19 PM
Great diary Jolien. All the best with your journey!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: james2334 on March 19, 2019, 07:21:54 PM
Thank you for answering personal questions as well. You are so wonderful
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 19, 2019, 08:08:57 PM
Sorry but I need to say that: you are beautiful.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: myloginacc on March 19, 2019, 09:55:34 PM
That 5% chance of internal nail infection is way too high. Glad you are going with someone who seems like a decent doctor, so far. I hope things keep progressing well.

Also, really courageous to show your face and sign posts with your name. I'd recommend thinking if you believe this won't change in the future, just to be safe.

I wish you all the best with your lengthening.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: short on March 19, 2019, 11:46:01 PM
I am thankful for every Giotikas diary.
What was your motivation to go for LON instead of pure internals?
Money, preventing knee-pain?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 20, 2019, 08:05:09 AM
I am thankful for every Giotikas diary.
What was your motivation to go for LON instead of pure internals?
Money, preventing knee-pain?

For me it was pretty simple, when I went back to my country I needed to wear long trousers and I needed to be able to go "walk" less or more. And because stryde was only available in April 2019 LON was  my only option. And I AM SOOOO HAPPY with my choise. Especially when I hear other stories about external only or Precice.

Kind regards!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: fivetenneeded2016 on March 20, 2019, 03:59:30 PM
I am thankful for every Giotikas diary.
What was your motivation to go for LON instead of pure internals?
Money, preventing knee-pain?
doing lon or internals or latn still would give you same knee issue, atleast theroritically all are same, speaking of tibias.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 20, 2019, 07:58:27 PM
I talked with Dr Giotikas in february and he told that time he already had stryde. Maybe he had only for femurs, I don't know. You don't care for the scars of TSF (is it tsf?)?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 21, 2019, 08:55:54 AM
I talked with Dr Giotikas in february and he told that time he already had stryde. Maybe he had only for femurs, I don't know. You don't care for the scars of TSF (is it tsf?)?

No I don't! They are not too bad as you can see in my google drive document.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 21, 2019, 11:36:11 AM
Please, do not disappear after your consolidation. Keep posting small updates about your condition.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 22, 2019, 08:33:12 PM
I hope you are more stable on your right leg today.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 23, 2019, 06:49:05 PM
I hope you are more stable on your right leg today.

I'm really training as hard as I can to get stability back, I'm afraid it is not a one-day process. I need to train proprioception again. I also have the feeling that it is not only my balance but my gluteus muscles who are weak at my right side. The keep the hip up as you walk, which I can't at the moment. I'm gonna try to post video's of excercices and my gait right now.

Kind regards!

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 23, 2019, 07:48:55 PM
Waiting the videos.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 25, 2019, 11:01:01 AM
Waiting the videos.
Still waiting.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: 4cms on March 25, 2019, 11:36:30 AM
Still waiting.

Take it easy buddy
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 25, 2019, 11:40:26 AM
Sorry. :)
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: takura on March 25, 2019, 06:57:04 PM
Sorry. :)

It’s getting quite pathetic what you’re doing to be honest . No she won’t sleep with you bro, she’s only sharing her experience

Have you never seen a girl before that you feel the need to give her so much attention

Chill!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 25, 2019, 08:09:26 PM
Wow, dont expect that. I comment in other (male) diaries the same way I do here. I'll not discuss this absurd anymore. I'll not pollute someone's diary with this absurd claims. Please, lets be polite and reasonable.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 25, 2019, 08:18:19 PM
Quote
I noticed I cannot stretch my right leg enough to keep my heel on the ground when my left foot takes a step. PROBLEM!!!
Sorry to read that. Hope you recovery well.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: cheekycabs on March 25, 2019, 08:46:34 PM
Wow, dont expect that. I comment in other (male) diaries the same way I do here.

Sorry but I need to say that: you are beautiful.

Yeah, I do the same hahah!!  ;D
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: 177cmm on March 25, 2019, 09:17:35 PM
It’s getting quite pathetic what you’re doing to be honest . No she won’t sleep with you bro, she’s only sharing her experience

Have you never seen a girl before that you feel the need to give her so much attention

Chill!
Haha i had same thought. Such a beta behaviour. OK girl is looking pretty good but behaving like that and in internet lel, I wouldn't even let myself on something like that in real, my last gf was jumping around me so I adapted to this, not 360° difference.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 27, 2019, 09:15:59 AM
Sorry to read that. Hope you recovery well.

Yes me too! I do a lot of squads which pushes my heel down and I try to walk as much as possible, I feel after walking a while the heel touches the ground again, but still, this is really not a good sign!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 30, 2019, 02:50:18 PM
Waiting the videos.

The videos are in my google drive map!! sorry for the long waiting!

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 30, 2019, 07:23:13 PM
Your range of motion is good. You look health and fine.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: james2334 on March 31, 2019, 02:34:49 AM
The videos are in my google drive map!! sorry for the long waiting!

Kind regards

Jolien
It looks like a very good move. I am looking forward to updating my diary and videos.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on March 31, 2019, 02:29:40 PM
It doesnt hurt when you squat on one leg?

The device is really full weigh bearing...
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on March 31, 2019, 06:31:47 PM
It doesnt hurt when you squat on one leg?

The device is really full weigh bearing...

Yes it is really full weight bearing! I doesnt hurt, I only have trouble keeping my hip up as you can see. With the other leg it is like normal.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 08, 2019, 04:52:50 PM
Congrats for you 4cm lengthening. You are almost there.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 16, 2019, 04:27:55 PM
Just uploaded a video of me walking at 4.7cm.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: jievince3 on April 17, 2019, 03:03:07 AM
beautiful girl.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: jievince3 on April 17, 2019, 03:05:47 AM
When can you remove your nails? So far, including surgery costs and accommodation, eating, how much did you spend in total?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: 7231 on April 17, 2019, 04:44:52 AM
nice diary, you are extremely beautiful, like many already said and you seem to be a nice person as well. Are you from spain or argentina or nearby countries? btw, are you ok being public with your LL story? I mean since you are not hiding your face, people who know you, if they come across this site will 'know what you did this spring' (that is LL :)). One confusion - looks like you are doing pure external, not LON , right? or am I mistaken?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 17, 2019, 11:36:32 AM
When can you remove your nails? So far, including surgery costs and accommodation, eating, how much did you spend in total?

Hi!

Because I stayed for more than a month in the revalidation centre it costed me way much more than expected (60.000 will be the total amount probably)

But if not this where my estimations.   
29.600 lenghening
3.000 cosmetic scar reduction
4500 3 months stay in Greece Airbnb
600 food
500 flights
1000 exta's
6000 for complications, extra surgeries, longer stay...
2000 nurse-aid at home
= 47.200

Kind regards!

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: james2334 on April 17, 2019, 11:56:05 AM
Hi!

Because I stayed for more than a month in the revalidation centre it costed me way much more than expected (60.000 will be the total amount probably)

But if not this where my estimations.   
29.600 lenghening
3.000 cosmetic scar reduction
4500 3 months stay in Greece Airbnb
600 food
500 flights
1000 exta's
6000 for complications, extra surgeries, longer stay...
2000 nurse-aid at home
= 47.200

Kind regards!

Jolien

Is the rehab center stay at around 1800 euros in two weeks?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 17, 2019, 04:17:53 PM
Did you achieve your goal? Are you in consolidation phase now?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 17, 2019, 07:07:51 PM
Is the rehab center stay at around 1800 euros in two weeks?

The rehab centre is 2700 euro every two weeks.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on April 17, 2019, 07:10:42 PM
The rehab centre is 2700 euro every two weeks.

Dunno if you already answered that but what’s the reason you did the surgery, just asking out of curiosity, you already looked quite tall and also attractive
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 17, 2019, 07:10:52 PM
nice diary, you are extremely beautiful, like many already said and you seem to be a nice person as well. Are you from spain or argentina or nearby countries? btw, are you ok being public with your LL story? I mean since you are not hiding your face, people who know you, if they come across this site will 'know what you did this spring' (that is LL :)). One confusion - looks like you are doing pure external, not LON , right? or am I mistaken?

hi! Thankyou ;-)
I'm not from any of those countries or nearby.
yes kind of. It is not something that I'm ashamed of doing. And if someone comes across, they have the same idea otherwise you wouldnt be on this forum.
I am doing LON. Hopefully my externals can go of very soon.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 17, 2019, 07:12:55 PM
Did you achieve your goal? Are you in consolidation phase now?

Because my last X-ray of last friday showed very little bone regeneration I needed to quit lengtening since yesterday. I have a CT scan tomorrow and hopefully I'm gonna see Dr. Giotikas to ask what the following plans are. So for now I'm not in consolidation phase yet. Some stupid 3 mm to go hahahaha
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 17, 2019, 07:16:04 PM
Dunno if you already answered that but what’s the reason you did the surgery, just asking out of curiosity, you already looked quite tall and also attractive

Hi!

Thankyou,
I did the surgery because I was not happy with the proportion between my lower and upper legs. My lower legs always looked to small in my eyes. I also didnt walked very elegantly (I had kneecaps who were really pointing inwards) so I also did a rotation of my tibia's to fix that.

So to be clear, it was not to gain heigth (I was 167cm)

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 17, 2019, 07:17:06 PM
I will add my latest x-ray in my google doc now
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 17, 2019, 08:16:37 PM
Because my last X-ray of last friday showed very little bone regeneration I needed to quit lengtening since yesterday. I have a CT scan tomorrow and hopefully I'm gonna see Dr. Giotikas to ask what the following plans are. So for now I'm not in consolidation phase yet. Some stupid 3 mm to go hahahaha
Keep us updated with what Dr. Giotikas told you.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: jievince3 on April 18, 2019, 11:23:28 AM
Hi!

Because I stayed for more than a month in the revalidation centre it costed me way much more than expected (60.000 will be the total amount probably)

But if not this where my estimations.   
29.600 lenghening
3.000 cosmetic scar reduction
4500 3 months stay in Greece Airbnb
600 food
500 flights
1000 exta's
6000 for complications, extra surgeries, longer stay...
2000 nurse-aid at home
= 47.200

Kind regards!

Jolien


Why the price of LL is 29.600 ? The Dr.G's website says 22.000 is needed.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 18, 2019, 05:42:49 PM

Why the price of LL is 29.600 ? The Dr.G's website says 22.000 is needed.

I have no idea about that. This was around the price I paid for LON (I think externals were 22.000, not sure)
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: ned_flanders on April 18, 2019, 08:56:32 PM
You need to walk alot. Its the key to callous formation.
1,5 km a day. 5 days a week.
And also standup regularily throughout the day.
Doesnt have to be much. Like 5 minutes every hour if.

Calcium+ K2
And stay in sun for 40 min. If not sunny day take 5000IU D vitamin
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: StrangeDays67 on April 18, 2019, 10:23:55 PM
Did you measure your tibia to femur ratio before the surgery? I doubt it was that out of proportion. The post op results still look good, though. Longer legs work better on women anyways.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on April 19, 2019, 07:55:47 AM
Did you measure your tibia to femur ratio before the surgery? I doubt it was that out of proportion. The post op results still look good, though. Longer legs work better on women anyways.

I think there are studies that demonstrate that they work better overall on anyone, without making the ratios weird i mean
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: StrangeDays67 on April 19, 2019, 02:37:18 PM
You mean having longer tibia?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: champion90 on April 19, 2019, 03:26:11 PM
The rehab centre is 2700 euro every two weeks.

for this price do you intend staying at the Mediterraneo rehabilitation center with bed etc ?? thank you
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on April 19, 2019, 04:43:07 PM
You mean having longer tibia?

Overall long legs while keeping good ratios but also long tibias
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 20, 2019, 01:36:00 AM
So, what's the plan of Dr Giotikas to deal with your lack of bone regeneration?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on April 20, 2019, 08:37:07 AM
@Jolien any chance you give me the exact name of those things made of wood i guess that you use for stretching your feet, the one you said you bought from Amazon for about 16 euro
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 23, 2019, 08:23:06 AM
Thank you for the tips!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 23, 2019, 08:24:06 AM
Yes Dr. Giotikas did! He told me with the lengthening my proportion will be perfect!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 23, 2019, 08:25:42 AM
I stay now at the Theseus rehabilitation centre. And yes, this is everything included. Nurses, doctors, physiotherapy a bed, everything. It is really like in a hospital. I think the safest place you can be.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 23, 2019, 08:28:59 AM
He hasn't evaluated my CT scans yet, so I hope he will tell me his plan soon.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 23, 2019, 08:32:19 AM
@Jolien any chance you give me the exact name of those things made of wood i guess that you use for stretching your feet, the one you said you bought from Amazon for about 16 euro

Yes ofcourse!! I will post a screenshot of the name and picture in my google drive. The name on amazon was "Comfortable Dense Foam Incline Compact Stretch Wedge - Calf, Wrist - 14.5 Deg".

But I think you will find them when you search for calf stretcher as well.
They are not strong enough to stretch a normal calf but certainly perfect when you are almost having a ballerina foot during lengthening. So when you are in the lengthening process this works perfect! 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on April 23, 2019, 05:22:47 PM
Thx
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: jievince3 on April 24, 2019, 05:13:30 AM
When will you remove your frames?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: champion90 on April 24, 2019, 11:07:47 AM
Jolien also I would like to work in a year from dr Giotikas .. and facing everything alone I would also opt for the Theseus rehabilitation center .. could you tell me the price per night and what does not include? and if there are monthly discounts since I would be at least 2 months .. thank you friend
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on April 24, 2019, 04:03:04 PM
Im sorry but why on earth would you do lengthening if you are 167 cm?

Also did he insert a nail inside your knees? And how does it feel to have a nail in and out of your tibia?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 24, 2019, 04:37:04 PM
Im sorry but why on earth would you do lengthening if you are 167 cm?

Also did he insert a nail inside your knees? And how does it feel to have a nail in and out of your tibia?

Hi!

Thankyou,
I did the surgery because I was not happy with the proportion between my lower and upper legs. My lower legs always looked to small in my eyes. I also didnt walked very elegantly (I had kneecaps who were really pointing inwards) so I also did a rotation of my tibia's to fix that.

So to be clear, it was not to gain heigth (I was 167cm)

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 24, 2019, 05:03:08 PM
Im sorry but why on earth would you do lengthening if you are 167 cm?

Also did he insert a nail inside your knees? And how does it feel to have a nail in and out of your tibia?

Hahahaha the best question I had so far!! It feels like a biiiiig heavy nail in the middle of you bone. exactly like it is! hahahaha no you dont feel anything!! inside the bone you dont have sensation so dont worry. You are only sore at your knee because the nail goes in true the patellar tendon. ;)
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 24, 2019, 05:04:10 PM
When will you remove your frames?
I hope soon!! For now I don't know yet! I quit lengthening because of lack in bone regeneration and I'm waiting for new orders from the surgeon.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 24, 2019, 05:09:39 PM
Jolien also I would like to work in a year from dr Giotikas .. and facing everything alone I would also opt for the Theseus rehabilitation center .. could you tell me the price per night and what does not include? and if there are monthly discounts since I would be at least 2 months .. thank you friend

The price they asked me was
1 bed bedroom: 385euros -> I got 20% reduction: 300 euros
2 bed bedroom: 224 euros -> I got 20% reduction: 180 euros
3 bed bedroom: 180 euros -> I got 20% reduction: 144 euros.

This includes everything you get in a hospital (no medication included but this is payed by giotikas) + physiotherapy. If you stay here you theoretically only need to pay the taxi to the hospital and back for x-rays and surgery.

But to be honest, this is THE most expensive rehab centre of the city and it really laks experience (only open for 2 years) I THINK (I'm not sure) that there are a lot better centre which you will pay the same or less. If I would do it again I would go to a more experienced centre.

Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: champion90 on April 25, 2019, 09:51:49 AM
did you look for it or did Giotikas recommend it to you? Because I wouldn't know how to find one .. in fact it's not cheap if you have to stay there 3 months .. thk homie
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: azman on April 25, 2019, 08:00:28 PM
Hi Jolien

On Dr. Giotikas BJR website it states:

After your discharge from the hospital you will be transferred either to Mediterranean rehabilitation Centre (MESKA)  in Loutraki or to your hotel room or apartment if you have chosen to have physiotherapy as an outpatient.

Are Dr. Giotikas requiring us to stay at Theseus rehabilitation center or do physiotherapy at Theseus?

So Dr. Giotikas does not using or referring us to Mediterranean rehabilitation Centre (MESKA) anymore?

Thanks
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 26, 2019, 01:17:15 AM
Shouldn't the doctor see patient x ray at least every month? How Dr Giotikas didn't notice your lack of bone regeneration till you are almost 5cm? Are you not worried?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 26, 2019, 10:56:41 AM
Hi Jolien

On Dr. Giotikas BJR website it states:

After your discharge from the hospital you will be transferred either to Mediterranean rehabilitation Centre (MESKA)  in Loutraki or to your hotel room or apartment if you have chosen to have physiotherapy as an outpatient.

Are Dr. Giotikas requiring us to stay at Theseus rehabilitation center or do physiotherapy at Theseus?

So Dr. Giotikas does not using or referring us to Mediterranean rehabilitation Centre (MESKA) anymore?

Thanks

Hi Azman,

He asked us to pay in advance for the physiotherapy sessions at Theseus. So that is the standard treatment plan. You are not forced to do this. If you want to do it different he will pay your money back and you can go to another centre, a private therapist,...

He didnt told me anything about MESKA.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 26, 2019, 10:58:04 AM
Shouldn't the doctor see patient x ray at least every month? How Dr Giotikas didn't notice your lack of bone regeneration till you are almost 5cm? Are you not worried?

We had x-rays every two weeks, and the previous x-rays he said my consolidation looked good so I dont know what changed his mind.

I just got a call from him, the CT scan looked great, so my bone regeneration is fine so I can do the last mm in peace!

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Ghostfish on April 26, 2019, 11:33:18 AM
We had x-rays every two weeks, and the previous x-rays he said my consolidation looked good so I dont know what changed his mind.

I just got a call from him, the CT scan looked great, so my bone regeneration is fine so I can do the last mm in peace!

Kind regards

Jolien
That is a great news!  Congrats! Jolien
You are almost there! Keep up the good work!
Wish you the best of luck!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 26, 2019, 04:35:52 PM
Congratulation, Jolien. Let us know when you are finished lengthening.
If you can, post picture of xray on google drive.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: James on April 27, 2019, 08:43:53 AM
Thanks OP for the informative diary. We need more diaries like this about Dr. G.

I do have a question about the pricing : on Dr. Giotika's website it says tibia lengthening with Taylor spatial frame is 22600 EUR including everything besides food and stay. http://www.athensbjr.com/cost-and-pricing-of-cosmetic-limb-lengthening.html

Why did you have to pay 30200 EUR for virtually the same package though ? Thanks for your time OP.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on April 27, 2019, 02:23:05 PM
Thanks OP for the informative diary. We need more diaries like this about Dr. G.

I do have a question about the pricing : on Dr. Giotika's website it says tibia lengthening with Taylor spatial frame is 22600 EUR including everything besides food and stay. http://www.athensbjr.com/cost-and-pricing-of-cosmetic-limb-lengthening.html

Why did you have to pay 30200 EUR for virtually the same package though ? Thanks for your time OP.

Hi James,

22.600 euros is the price he asked me for externals only, maybe that's what causes the price difference. But it is maybe interesting to write an email about that? maybe it is changed by now? or maybe this are the old prices I dont know.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Great321 on April 27, 2019, 03:17:41 PM
I know for sure that LON costs more than externals only. Dr. Giotikas offered me LON once, but I'd have to pay about 7.500€ more on top of the 22.600€.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on April 30, 2019, 08:23:56 PM
Congratulations, Jolien. I saw on your google doc you achieve your 5cm. Now things will start to get better and better.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: TinyTL on April 30, 2019, 08:34:52 PM
are you going to share x-ray with us?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 05, 2019, 07:15:58 AM
are you going to share x-ray with us?

All the x-rays I have are on my google doc :D the link can be found in my first message in this discussion.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: TinyTL on May 05, 2019, 04:34:10 PM
saw your x-rays.
im worried about the callous

have you taken any steps since that x-ray?
increased calcium, or walking?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: azman on May 08, 2019, 05:48:53 PM
Hi Jolien,

How you feeling lately?  Hope all is well.

Can you tell me more of your stay at the Theseus rehabilitation center?

How was the staff?

How was the food?

Are there a  jacuzzi there for sore muscle for internal Precice or is that no good for CLL?

Where did you stay after leaving Theseus?

Did Dr. Giotikas assistant help find you a place?

Thanks
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 13, 2019, 01:11:20 PM
saw your x-rays.
im worried about the callous

have you taken any steps since that x-ray?
increased calcium, or walking?

No I didnt. Dr. Giotikas took a CT scan and told me my consolidation was oke.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 13, 2019, 01:13:36 PM
Hi Jolien,

How you feeling lately?  Hope all is well.

Can you tell me more of your stay at the Theseus rehabilitation center?

How was the staff?

How was the food?

Are there a  jacuzzi there for sore muscle for internal Precice or is that no good for CLL?

Where did you stay after leaving Theseus?

Did Dr. Giotikas assistant help find you a place?

Thanks

For me the staff was a little inexperienced.

The food is not good haha hospital food so I ordered sometimes delivery food.

They dont have a jacuzzi, they do have a swimming pool!

I now stay at an appartement where I get private physiotherapy.

If you want the assistent can you help finding a place yes.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: james2334 on May 13, 2019, 01:57:21 PM
For me the staff was a little inexperienced.

The food is not good haha hospital food so I ordered sometimes delivery food.

They dont have a jacuzzi, they do have a swimming pool!

I now stay at an appartement where I get private physiotherapy.

If you want the assistent can you help finding a place yes.

Kind regards

Jolien

Is the quality of physical therapy in Greece not good?  Do you have physical therapy in addition to the physical therapy provided by the hospital?  Do you know the price etc?  And how are you doing now?  It seems to have reached 5 cm, but I am worried about walking etc.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on May 14, 2019, 12:32:32 PM
I kinda feel like the quality of the hospital in athens that giotikas does the surgery in isnt the best thing ?
can u tell us a true opinion about that ?
is it a clean professional place or more basic?
and the Dr himself is he strict or does he listen & help & has alot of knowledge ?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 18, 2019, 09:44:03 AM
Is the quality of physical therapy in Greece not good?  Do you have physical therapy in addition to the physical therapy provided by the hospital?  Do you know the price etc?  And how are you doing now?  It seems to have reached 5 cm, but I am worried about walking etc.

Personally I was not very happy with the physiotherapy I got at Theseus. I now have private physiotherapy at home. I left Theseus because it was to expensive fot another mont. I CAN WALK WITHOUT WALKER!!!!!! My leg magically started working again properly after my frames came off!!! I'm the luckiest girl in the world!!! Now I just walk without any support. :)))))))))
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 18, 2019, 09:45:28 AM
I kinda feel like the quality of the hospital in athens that giotikas does the surgery in isnt the best thing ?
can u tell us a true opinion about that ?
is it a clean professional place or more basic?
and the Dr himself is he strict or does he listen & help & has alot of knowledge ?

I personally was very happy about the hospital. No complaints at all.

The doctor does listens and helps. He is a nice person. Goh I hope he has!!

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Great321 on May 18, 2019, 12:33:03 PM
Congratulations for being able to walk without the walker ;D

Maybe LON is better than fully externals. Anyway this gives me hope, too.

How is your gait and do you have any kind of slight "ballerina foot". Can you walk straight or still a bit bend over?

Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on May 18, 2019, 05:17:21 PM
Personally I was not very happy with the physiotherapy I got at Theseus. I now have private physiotherapy at home. I left Theseus because it was to expensive fot another mont. I CAN WALK WITHOUT WALKER!!!!!! My leg magically started working again properly after my frames came off!!! I'm the luckiest girl in the world!!! Now I just walk without any support. :)))))))))
Congratulations. So you already took frames off?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: PAGrb490 on May 18, 2019, 05:17:40 PM
Congrats!!!! So happy for you!!! You go girl !!!! ;)
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Activatedx on May 18, 2019, 06:33:51 PM
Hi everyone,

I'm a 22 year-old girl who did LON surgery 12th of February 2019 with Dr. Giotikas. I would love to share as much as I can but keep it a little clear. That's why I'm writing everything down in a google drive document. I hope it works, if not please let me know!!

Kind regards


https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kLRNzGUbKcTqfX_lj12FvojHiUgjS1yA?usp=sharing



How is everything going so far? I am considering either Armenia or Greece this coming year, hope to go to Giotikas for stryde femurs and tsf tibia for 11.5-12cm combined. Have you had any complications so far?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: james2334 on May 19, 2019, 02:18:52 AM
Personally I was not very happy with the physiotherapy I got at Theseus. I now have private physiotherapy at home. I left Theseus because it was to expensive fot another mont. I CAN WALK WITHOUT WALKER!!!!!! My leg magically started working again properly after my frames came off!!! I'm the luckiest girl in the world!!! Now I just walk without any support. :)))))))))

I am happy that you look good.  Well now you are doing physical therapy in your apartment.  Did you find that physical therapy yourself?  Or did you introduce it from Giotikas?  Please tell me the price of physical therapy if it is good.  Are you dissatisfied with Greece or Giotikas outside of physical therapy?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: james2334 on May 19, 2019, 02:23:17 AM

How is everything going so far? I am considering either Armenia or Greece this coming year, hope to go to Giotikas for stryde femurs and tsf tibia for 11.5-12cm combined. Have you had any complications so far?
[/quote]

I think Armenia is the worst option.  There are Japanese men who have extended 10 cm without problems, but there are also some patients who can not walk well due to their transformation.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: cheekycabs on May 19, 2019, 07:34:49 PM
Congratulations for being able to walk without the walker ;D

Maybe LON is better than fully externals. Anyway this gives me hope, too.

How is your gait and do you have any kind of slight "ballerina foot". Can you walk straight or still a bit bend over?

Starting to agree with this... 8 months of frames absolutely sucks.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on May 20, 2019, 03:12:47 AM
It's obvious LON/LATN is better than full externals. Birkholtz made everyone paranoid.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 20, 2019, 08:53:57 AM
Congratulations for being able to walk without the walker ;D

Maybe LON is better than fully externals. Anyway this gives me hope, too.

How is your gait and do you have any kind of slight "ballerina foot". Can you walk straight or still a bit bend over?

I'm walking better everyday! I'm back home now and will upload a video of me walking pretty soon!! I need to wear special boots who keep my ankle in a 90° angle so it is pretty difficult to walk normal with those. But overal I walk pretty normal I think!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 20, 2019, 08:56:28 AM


How is everything going so far? I am considering either Armenia or Greece this coming year, hope to go to Giotikas for stryde femurs and tsf tibia for 11.5-12cm combined. Have you had any complications so far?

Yes ofcourse! I had two pinsite infections, I had a slight ballerina foot and my biggest problem was that I couldnt walk without walker!

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 20, 2019, 08:58:37 AM
I am happy that you look good.  Well now you are doing physical therapy in your apartment.  Did you find that physical therapy yourself?  Or did you introduce it from Giotikas?  Please tell me the price of physical therapy if it is good.  Are you dissatisfied with Greece or Giotikas outside of physical therapy?

In Greece the average price is between 30 and 50 euros for one hour of private physiotherapy. I found my private physiotherapist via the Theseus rehab centre. I'm not dissatisfied with Greece or Giotikas.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 23, 2019, 01:54:08 PM
I uploaded a video of me walking 1 week after frame removal on the google drive

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: MirinHeight on May 23, 2019, 02:05:18 PM
I uploaded a video of me walking 1 week after frame removal on the google drive

Kind regards

Jolien

wow your walk looks really good and its only gnna get better! would advise using crutches until close to 100% though!

also I had a quick question about compartment syndrome. Did Dr. Giotikas mention anything about it, and how he would treat/prevent it. It is a major concern when doing tibias.

Thank you for your time
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 23, 2019, 02:14:58 PM
wow your walk looks really good and its only gnna get better! would advise using crutches until close to 100% though!

also I had a quick question about compartment syndrome. Did Dr. Giotikas mention anything about it, and how he would treat/prevent it. It is a major concern when doing tibias.

Thank you for your time

Dear,

thankyou!

He did mentioned compartment syndrome, I think (not sure anymore) that he will do fasciotomy when this appears. I dont think he did anything to prevent it.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: MirinHeight on May 23, 2019, 02:21:54 PM
Dear,

thankyou!

He did mentioned compartment syndrome, I think (not sure anymore) that he will do fasciotomy when this appears. I dont think he did anything to prevent it.

Kind regards

Jolien

sounds good, thank you!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 23, 2019, 02:28:22 PM
sounds good, thank you!

Or maybe he did a small incision in the fascia. I'm doubting now hahah but it is not mentioned in my medical report so I really dont know I'm sorry
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: LLwarrior on May 23, 2019, 04:36:07 PM
do you feel any pain now ? and when walking ?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 24, 2019, 04:33:16 PM
do you feel any pain now ? and when walking ?

No I dont!! :-)
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on May 24, 2019, 07:15:04 PM
i mean, sorry but didnt you do LON ?
Which means nails has been inserted inside and outside your tibia, knee,ankle!
How can you not feel pain?
while others who do this say they walk like penguins and normal walking is so hard to attain after such surgery....
Or is it because you are already extremely tall 175 or sth ?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 25, 2019, 08:05:29 AM
i mean, sorry but didnt you do LON ?
Which means nails has been inserted inside and outside your tibia, knee,ankle!
How can you not feel pain?
while others who do this say they walk like penguins and normal walking is so hard to attain after such surgery....
Or is it because you are already extremely tall 175 or sth ?

I did LON indeed! my internal nail is like you can see on the X-rays (in my google doc) not that long. It ends at the last 1/3 of my Tibia. I never had pain when I walked, only in the beginning after 5 minutes walking because my bloodflow was not oke. But I never had pain because of the nail!

Now I am 171,5cm (so with 5cm lenghtening)

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: azman on May 26, 2019, 07:18:36 AM
Hey Jolien,

Glad to hear that you are doing good.

Question:

When you were at the Theseus rehab centre, did they give you a schedule of when and what you can do there?

Can you use the PT center and the pool at anytime without a therapist?

Thanks

 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 26, 2019, 10:13:44 AM
Hey Jolien,

Glad to hear that you are doing good.

Question:

When you were at the Theseus rehab centre, did they give you a schedule of when and what you can do there?

Can you use the PT center and the pool at anytime without a therapist?

Thanks

 

Dear,

they didnt gave me a shedule of things I could do on my own, but ofcourse if you let them feel you want to do more you can obviously! The physiotherapists will explain you excercices you can do on your own.

Because of my frame I was to scared for infections so I didnt used the pool. I think it is a pool with supervision only and to small to really swim. But like I said Theseus is not the only rehab centre in Athens and I found some with a big pool where you can swim.

I also had the idea that I would be active for the entire day but you feel that if you walked one hour and did two hours of excercices a day you are fed up already. But this is my own experience.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Great321 on May 26, 2019, 03:23:53 PM
With frames on you don't go swimming anyways. Only afterwards walking in the water is good.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: azman on June 01, 2019, 08:32:47 AM
Hi Jolien

Sorry the pool question was for Precise nail.

Is there a patio or outside area at the Theseus centre in which you can be in the sun?
I been looking at their site and could not  locate it.

Thanks
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 04, 2019, 08:31:28 AM
Hi Jolien

Sorry the pool question was for Precise nail.

Is there a patio or outside area at the Theseus centre in which you can be in the sun?
I been looking at their site and could not  locate it.

Thanks

Yes there is!!!! I was soooo happy for that!! There is a super cute little park on the roof and a coffee shop. I always went out in the morning and you can do super nice walks outside!!! this was such a bless for me!!! xx
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 04, 2019, 08:32:16 AM
I posted a before and after picture in my word document in google drive. I also posted a video of me walking today!

Kind regards!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: LLwarrior on June 04, 2019, 10:58:54 AM
I posted a before and after picture in my word document in google drive. I also posted a video of me walking today!

Kind regards!

Hello, could you post a photo of your scars at this moment ? i want to see how they look
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on June 04, 2019, 01:52:09 PM
Jolien how many months did you stay-in Athens?

Where did you stay?

Ans this garden you are walking in is in the hospital or where exactly?

& what is thesus center??
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: wannagrowtaller on June 04, 2019, 04:07:37 PM
Your gait looks pretty good to me only 3 weeks after frame removal. Now I hope you recover well.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 04, 2019, 05:36:26 PM
Your gait looks pretty good to me only 3 weeks after frame removal. Now I hope you recover well.

Thank you! x
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 04, 2019, 05:38:06 PM
Jolien how many months did you stay-in Athens?

Where did you stay?

Ans this garden you are walking in is in the hospital or where exactly?

& what is thesus center??

 I stayed there for 3 months
The garden was at the rooftop of the revalidation centre called Theseus.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: azman on June 05, 2019, 03:20:21 AM
Hey Jolien

That’s awesome to hear that there a roof top garden.

I'm been trying to decide if I should chose Dr. Giotikas to do my CLL on my femur with stryde.

Have you meet any of his patient during your stay in Athens that has done internal Precice 2.2 or Stryde on the femur or tibia?

If so, how were they, did their surgery went ok?

Thanks
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 10, 2019, 07:38:20 AM
Hey Jolien

That’s awesome to hear that there a roof top garden.

I'm been trying to decide if I should chose Dr. Giotikas to do my CLL on my femur with stryde.

Have you meet any of his patient during your stay in Athens that has done internal Precice 2.2 or Stryde on the femur or tibia?

If so, how were they, did their surgery went ok?

Thanks

I did, they all reacted different but overall I think they all will be fine in the near future. :-D
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 10, 2019, 07:43:59 AM
Hello, could you post a photo of your scars at this moment ? i want to see how they look

Dear,

I uploaded some pictures of my scars on my word google doc.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: InFullStryde on June 10, 2019, 03:03:36 PM
Dear,

I uploaded some pictures of my scars on my word google doc.

Kind regards

Great diary, Jolien.  I reviewed the Google Docs area and you have provided excellent material and information for future Tibia Lengthening patients.  Based on your walk; you are well on your way to recovery.  Proportions for Femur/Tibia look wonderful. 

Best wishes and in advance, congratulations on a successful recovery!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on June 10, 2019, 03:17:56 PM
Yeah best diary by a landslide
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 10, 2019, 07:13:48 PM
Great diary, Jolien.  I reviewed the Google Docs area and you have provided excellent material and information for future Tibia Lengthening patients.  Based on your walk; you are well on your way to recovery.  Proportions for Femur/Tibia look wonderful. 

Best wishes and in advance, congratulations on a successful recovery!

Thank you so much!! I wish you the best as well!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: MirinHeight on June 11, 2019, 11:36:29 AM
Im honestly very impressed with Dr. Giotikas.
hoping to see many more great diaries on him on this forum.

You had one of the best recoveries ive seen on this forum Jolien. Very informative diary as well.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 11, 2019, 04:36:28 PM
Im honestly very impressed with Dr. Giotikas.
hoping to see many more great diaries on him on this forum.

You had one of the best recoveries ive seen on this forum Jolien. Very informative diary as well.

Thank you!

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Apoplectic on June 11, 2019, 10:42:07 PM
You're walk is already very good.
Dr Giotikas looks to be a major player in this field in the near future.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: sylar94 on June 11, 2019, 10:48:48 PM
I feel like Jolien deserves more credit for the fast recovery than Giotikas
It is the most organized diary and Jolien was very focused on PT
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 12, 2019, 10:15:50 AM
I feel like Jolien deserves more credit for the fast recovery than Giotikas
It is the most organized diary and Jolien was very focused on PT

This is a very interesting topic actually. And I certainly dont wanne take credits away from Dr. Giotikas, but I think the recovery speed dependens on the flexibility you are born with (I was very flexible) and the amount of time you stretch and do excercices which also depends on the coaching you get (where Dr. Giotikas was certainly part of). I lived in so much fear because I lied to all my friends and family about this so I couldnt afford anything going wrong and I really didnt want to go back home disabled. So I just pushed through because I was terrified as f*ck hahah.

I think the more dedication you have the better results you will get; you are gonna take more care of your pinsites, you are gonna workout more consistently, you are gonna push through the pain more and focus on the progress instead of the pain and exhaustement. Because after all, the surgeon only puts your nail and/or frame on, all the rest is up to you.


Kind regards

Jolien 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Activatedx on June 12, 2019, 05:47:57 PM
This is a very interesting topic actually. And I certainly dont wanne take credits away from Dr. Giotikas, but I think the recovery speed dependens on the flexibility you are born with (I was very flexible) and the amount of time you stretch and do excercices which also depends on the coaching you get (where Dr. Giotikas was certainly part of). I lived in so much fear because I lied to all my friends and family about this so I couldnt afford anything going wrong and I really didnt want to go back home disabled. So I just pushed through because I was terrified as f*ck hahah.

I think the more dedication you have the better results you will get; you are gonna take more care of your pinsites, you are gonna workout more consistently, you are gonna push through the pain more and focus on the progress instead of the pain and exhaustement. Because after all, the surgeon only puts your nail and/or frame on, all the rest is up to you.


Kind regards

Jolien



You mentioned you spent 6k on complications, may I ask what complications?

Also that’s a lot on scar revision, I’m not a hairy person except for my legs so good thing for me that will definitely cover up the scars lol
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 12, 2019, 08:18:28 PM


You mentioned you spent 6k on complications, may I ask what complications?

Also that’s a lot on scar revision, I’m not a hairy person except for my legs so good thing for me that will definitely cover up the scars lol

No I saved 6K for potential complications. I didnt spend anything in real life.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: sylar94 on June 12, 2019, 10:07:05 PM
Also Jolien looks very skinny; maybe this helps with recovery

Jolien, did you do blood tests for Vitamin D before surgery? Did you take any supplements to speed up recovery?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 13, 2019, 03:07:14 PM
Also Jolien looks very skinny; maybe this helps with recovery

Jolien, did you do blood tests for Vitamin D before surgery? Did you take any supplements to speed up recovery?

I actually recommend to be keep a little more reserve. Because I was so skinny I had to push even more to get all my excercises and walking done every day. Also if something would happen like a pneumonia or an osteomyelitis I would have been in severe trouble. So I think in contrary, it is better to be a little more fatty.

They test your blood before surgery and if you have a deficiency you get supplements. For me it was Iron. I'm now taking calcium still.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 25, 2019, 07:27:58 PM
I put my google doc only again. My apologies for this. I will post a video of my excersices I'm doing now and I uploaded my x-rays of yesterday.

Kind regards!

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 25, 2019, 07:33:25 PM
I put my google doc only again. My apologies for this. I will post a video of my excersices I'm doing now and I uploaded my x-rays of yesterday.

Kind regards!

Jolien

*online
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on June 25, 2019, 07:35:26 PM
I also go to a very known and experienced orthopedic surgeon of my country and he said I can just walk without crutches and he even said I could start jogging in 2 monts already!! (not that I am gonna do that tho)
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on July 03, 2019, 11:55:42 AM
I also go to a very known and experienced orthopedic surgeon of my country and he said I can just walk without crutches and he even said I could start jogging in 2 monts already!! (not that I am gonna do that tho)

Hi Jolien, sorry i forgot how much did u lengthen? And u used LATN right?

Also, can you please say the difference between the regular Illizarov metallic silver frame and the Black tsf frame, like are the nails cutting through skin cleaner?
Is lengthening easier with it?
Less pain?

Because it seems that TsF is more bulky...
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Activatedx on July 03, 2019, 04:30:16 PM
Hi Jolien, sorry i forgot how much did u lengthen? And u used LATN right?

Also, can you please say the difference between the regular Illizarov metallic silver frame and the Black tsf frame, like are the nails cutting through skin cleaner?
Is lengthening easier with it?
Less pain?

Because it seems that TsF is more bulky...


Tsf is to correct deformity so is better if you have curvature in your bones or complications that cause deformity
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 08, 2019, 06:57:51 PM
Hi Jolien, sorry i forgot how much did u lengthen? And u used LATN right?

Also, can you please say the difference between the regular Illizarov metallic silver frame and the Black tsf frame, like are the nails cutting through skin cleaner?
Is lengthening easier with it?
Less pain?

Because it seems that TsF is more bulky...

Hi!

For what I have seen the Ilizarov frame has more pinsites, but they are all small. They are as small as my small pin sites (see google doc). I have in total 8 pinsites per leg, 3 of them are bigger. I think the Ilizarov has around 15 pinsites per leg. (not sure).

They have the same dimensions for what I have seen. Both frames diameters will be adjusted to your leg diameter. So the bigger your leg the bigger your frame.

You can also do a rotation with TSF which is not possible with Ilizarov.

So far for what I have seen and red is the LON less painfull to walk than a frame only. But this is only my experience.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on July 08, 2019, 08:52:49 PM
Omg, i just saw Thesus Rehab center and its a whole building!
I thought its like a small room in a hospital but can you please tell us more about this center?
First of all did Dr G tell u that this is the PT center or did he give u choices and you pick?

Or is Pt not even included in package and we search for it on our own ?
& what didnt u like about it?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 22, 2019, 10:39:29 AM
Omg, i just saw Thesus Rehab center and its a whole building!
I thought its like a small room in a hospital but can you please tell us more about this center?
First of all did Dr G tell u that this is the PT center or did he give u choices and you pick?

Or is Pt not even included in package and we search for it on our own ?
& what didnt u like about it?

It was in the package, but if you tell him I wanne do PT somewhere else he is gonna give you your PT money back.
I felt I could have done way much more in the guided PT I received. They are all very young and quit unexperienced, so yes it would be a miracle if they had a lot of leg-lengthening experience. And like I said earlier, I think it all depends on you, you cannot ask a physiotherapist to do physiotherapy 3 hours a day. A lot of excercises you figure out during your recovery that work for you and help you, you can do by yourself.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 22, 2019, 12:11:39 PM
I just posted a video of today! my walking and doing all kinds of tricks hahah

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on July 22, 2019, 12:21:21 PM
Looking great
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 22, 2019, 12:42:51 PM
I posted very detailedly my workout routine I'm doing now for more than a month already in my google doc.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on July 23, 2019, 10:36:39 AM
It was in the package, but if you tell him I wanne do PT somewhere else he is gonna give you your PT money back.
I felt I could have done way much more in the guided PT I received. They are all very young and quit unexperienced, so yes it would be a miracle if they had a lot of leg-lengthening experience. And like I said earlier, I think it all depends on you, you cannot ask a physiotherapist to do physiotherapy 3 hours a day. A lot of excercises you figure out during your recovery that work for you and help you, you can do by yourself.

Kind regards

So if this Thesus center isnt the best in athens and to be honest i dont want some young amaetured training my broken legs so How much is The PT refunded Amount and do you know famous better physiotherapist in athens ?
Plus if they are all young and inexperienced why did dr giotikas pick this center!!!! Doesnt he know ?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 23, 2019, 08:26:19 PM
So if this Thesus center isnt the best in athens and to be honest i dont want some young amaetured training my broken legs so How much is The PT refunded Amount and do you know famous better physiotherapist in athens ?
Plus if they are all young and inexperienced why did dr giotikas pick this center!!!! Doesnt he know ?

It is very close to the Mediterraneo hospital so I think for practical reasons. I have found a couple who are both physiotherapists and reallly good! If you are really going to Greece I will ask them if they are oke if I give you their contact information. For me this reaaaally made the difference.

The price I dont know exactly I think it is around 800 euros. Dont shoot me if this is not entirely correct. Just an estimation.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Shadow91 on July 26, 2019, 12:16:46 PM
Hi

I must say that you are very brave to go through this. Thank you for sharing your story and still answering our questions, especially when you could have easily stayed away from this forum.

 I would like to ask you a question or two. If you could revaluate your spending, how much did you spend in total?Not counting in the surgery cost and the price for stryde, but how much money should one set aside for rent,food,taxi,care, complications and etc. If you would stay for 3-4 months and chose to do it with stryde? Just a guess if you could.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: sylar94 on July 26, 2019, 02:21:52 PM
Jolien, how is your consolidation?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Kenda on July 26, 2019, 04:50:31 PM
It is very close to the Mediterraneo hospital so I think for practical reasons. I have found a couple who are both physiotherapists and reallly good! If you are really going to Greece I will ask them if they are oke if I give you their contact information. For me this reaaaally made the difference.

The price I dont know exactly I think it is around 800 euros. Dont shoot me if this is not entirely correct. Just an estimation.

Kind regards

Jolien

so Giotikas deducts 800 euros frompackage if i dont take his PT , Oh i thought its a couple of thousand euros..... (no problem i know its an estimate)
but his package contain how many times PT? & Is PT daily or 3 times per week or 2 times a day ??
yeah Private Message me please,,,the name of these other PT centers.
thanks in advance
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 26, 2019, 07:08:21 PM
Hi

I must say that you are very brave to go through this. Thank you for sharing your story and still answering our questions, especially when you could have easily stayed away from this forum.

 I would like to ask you a question or two. If you could revaluate your spending, how much did you spend in total?Not counting in the surgery cost and the price for stryde, but how much money should one set aside for rent,food,taxi,care, complications and etc. If you would stay for 3-4 months and chose to do it with stryde? Just a guess if you could.

Dear,

For me, it was veeery expensive because I stayed for a long time in the physiotherapy center itself. And overall it will certainly depend on what you eat, where you stay.

normally you have to take a taxi to the hospital once every two weeks which is around 50 euros.

I spended around 20.000 euros in total I think during my 3 month stay.

Kind regards

Jolien



Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 26, 2019, 07:10:58 PM
Jolien, how is your consolidation?

the 5th of August I have another x-ray. For now you can check my consolidation on my google doc. Both Giotikas and the docs I see here in my country are happy about it. Still taking vit. D en calcium every day and walking around all the time together with my pretty extensive revalidation chedule I think I cannot do more than pray hahah

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 26, 2019, 07:14:55 PM
so Giotikas deducts 800 euros frompackage if i dont take his PT , Oh i thought its a couple of thousand euros..... (no problem i know its an estimate)
but his package contain how many times PT? & Is PT daily or 3 times per week or 2 times a day ??
yeah Private Message me please,,,the name of these other PT centers.
thanks in advance

We had PT 3 times a week.
 I don't remember  which ones exactly are better. You should mail a little bit around and hear them out about their experience, how long they have been running,... I did the same. The prices though are all a little bit the same.
I will ask the two physiotherapists if you want their contact data.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 26, 2019, 07:16:48 PM
so Giotikas deducts 800 euros frompackage if i dont take his PT , Oh i thought its a couple of thousand euros..... (no problem i know its an estimate)
but his package contain how many times PT? & Is PT daily or 3 times per week or 2 times a day ??
yeah Private Message me please,,,the name of these other PT centers.
thanks in advance

If you are really gonna stay at the physiotherapy he gives you the money back and you can have as much physiotherapy as you want. This is included in the price you pay the centre. I had 2 times a day physiotherapy and I could do as much excercices I wanted on my own there.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Nestor on July 27, 2019, 03:49:06 PM
Hi Jolien, are you experiencing any knee pains? How is your walking now, do you still need crutches?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 27, 2019, 05:56:31 PM
Hi Jolien, are you experiencing any knee pains? How is your walking now, do you still need crutches?

Dear,

you can see a video of me walking from around a week ago.
I dont need crutches but because my consolidation is not full yet I am not allowed to do very long distances.
I dont have any knee pain. Only when I lie down on my side and I put my legs on each other I have some pain on the side of my knee where the knees touch each other.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Nestor on July 28, 2019, 03:05:03 PM
Wow you look fantastic, never would guess you had any surgery, great going :) Did Dr. G say how long full consolidation would take? Do you find any discomfort if you walk long distances?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 28, 2019, 07:27:55 PM
Wow you look fantastic, never would guess you had any surgery, great going :) Did Dr. G say how long full consolidation would take? Do you find any discomfort if you walk long distances?

Dear,
Thanks

I have never tried long distances because I'm not allowed :-D

My orthopedic surgeon in Belgium said you need to count on 1,5month per cm without internal nail and 2 months per cm with nail so for me that would be 10 months :-D


Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: champion90 on July 29, 2019, 12:57:17 AM
Hi Jolien
Sorry but I can't understand how you could have spent 20,000 euros in Athens in three months between lodging, food, assistance and taxis. It seems excessive to me. Could you please tell me about it?
thank you
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rei on July 29, 2019, 04:26:10 AM
Hi Jolien
Sorry but I can't understand how you could have spent 20,000 euros in Athens in three months between lodging, food, assistance and taxis. It seems excessive to me. Could you please tell me about it?
thank you

She means including the actual surgery...
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 29, 2019, 02:00:32 PM
Hi Jolien
Sorry but I can't understand how you could have spent 20,000 euros in Athens in three months between lodging, food, assistance and taxis. It seems excessive to me. Could you please tell me about it?
thank you

Staying at the physiotherapy centre costs a looooot of money.

Kind regards
Jolien 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on July 29, 2019, 02:01:05 PM
She means including the actual surgery...

Haha I wish I did! ;p
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on August 08, 2019, 08:04:06 PM
Dear,

I just uploaded my X-rays of the 5th of August. I put them down below the google doc.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: champion90 on August 08, 2019, 08:45:20 PM
ahh .. I believe it! At the center I think it costs 200 euros a night ... that's how you spent all that money .. if you had gone to an airbnb near you would have spent 12,000 euros less as a minimum
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Heightmare on August 08, 2019, 10:05:18 PM
Since I'm looking into going with Dr Giotikas,how much would you recommend saving overall?

 I've never lived in a foreign country. I'm a uni student so I spend about £5000 every three or so months including accommodation.  Uni accommodation is intentionally overpriced but it seems a good estimate though I'm not sure.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on August 09, 2019, 09:27:46 AM
ahh .. I believe it! At the center I think it costs 200 euros a night ... that's how you spent all that money .. if you had gone to an airbnb near you would have spent 12,000 euros less as a minimum

Indeed! :-D
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on August 09, 2019, 09:29:08 AM
Since I'm looking into going with Dr Giotikas,how much would you recommend saving overall?

 I've never lived in a foreign country. I'm a uni student so I spend about £5000 every three or so months including accommodation.  Uni accommodation is intentionally overpriced but it seems a good estimate though I'm not sure.

Dear,

I listed the money I saved in this disscussion board. But this is very personally and depends on how you live.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Heightmare on August 09, 2019, 09:33:12 AM
Excellent I'll check it out 🙂
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Infinity on August 09, 2019, 02:19:30 PM
Dear Jolien,

Many thanks for writing this diary, Its very detailed and informative.

I am considering Dr. Giotikas and was wondering if he would consider doing femurs LON/LATN. WHat would be the best way to contact him, through his office?

x.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: MyBestSelf on August 10, 2019, 09:27:27 AM
Dear Jolien,

Many thanks for your amazing diary. I have been a longtime lurker on this forum, but now am deciding to pull the trigger on this surgery. I have scheduled bilateral femur lengthening (with Stryde nail) with Dr. Giotikas for September 14 (about a month away).

May I PM you with a couple questions? I realize I will do a different procedure from you, but I am just trying to decide if I should stay at the Theseus Rehabilitation Center or not for part of the distraction period (like you did). Dr. Giotikas told me it really isn't necessary to do so (he recommends Airbnb and getting transferred to  the 4-5 times per week PT sessions at Theseus).

But either way, I am weighing out all my options.  I also wanted to get your recommendations about other physical therapists in Athens, as you have alluded to on this forum.

I had my in-person consultation with Dr. Giotikas yesterday and it went very well. He seems like a competent and professional doctor who was able to answer my questions effectively. I also visited the Theseus Rehabilitation Center briefly and checked out the facilities (but did not have a chance to meet with any other CLL patients). After I do my surgery, I will post a diary for the benefit of this forum.

Thank you.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on August 10, 2019, 09:44:12 AM
Dear Jolien,

Many thanks for writing this diary, Its very detailed and informative.

I am considering Dr. Giotikas and was wondering if he would consider doing femurs LON/LATN. WHat would be the best way to contact him, through his office?

x.

Dear,

I just applied for his free online consultation :-D. He also answers his mails via info@bjrathens.com pretty quick.

(I don't know if frames for the femur are done. I think it is too uncomfortable)

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on August 10, 2019, 09:53:22 AM
Dear Jolien,

Many thanks for your amazing diary. I have been a longtime lurker on this forum, but now am deciding to pull the trigger on this surgery. I have scheduled bilateral femur lengthening (with Stryde nail) with Dr. Giotikas for September 14 (about a month away).

May I PM you with a couple questions? I realize I will do a different procedure from you, but I am just trying to decide if I should stay at the Theseus Rehabilitation Center or not for part of the distraction period (like you did). Dr. Giotikas told me it really isn't necessary to do so (he recommends Airbnb and getting transferred to  the 4-5 times per week PT sessions at Theseus).

But either way, I am weighing out all my options.  I also wanted to get your recommendations about other physical therapists in Athens, as you have alluded to on this forum.

I had my in-person consultation with Dr. Giotikas yesterday and it went very well. He seems like a competent and professional doctor who was able to answer my questions effectively. I also visited the Theseus Rehabilitation Center briefly and checked out the facilities (but did not have a chance to meet with any other CLL patients). After I do my surgery, I will post a diary for the benefit of this forum.

Thank you.

Dear,

the problem for me was that I lose all my motivation to do exercises, walk, etc. when I am locked in my apartment all alone. I also saw this with the other patients staying alone. You are just miserable alone and you don't do enough. When I was there we only got physiotherapy 3 times a week. Which was not enough at all. I am very happy I could stay at the center. It also keeps you more productive in the things you want to accomplish besides lengthening (like studying).

So if you have money enough, you have nobody to join and you want to be as productive and as soon recovered as possible please go to a place with other people (Theseus is like a hospital with doctors and nurses 24/7). It is also very important for your mental health. If you have nothing else planned than watching television and you don't care too much about a rapid recovery you can stay at an airbnb. Theseus just makes life easy ;-)

I think you need to ask Giotikas about reliable physiotherapists because he didnt liked it that "my" physiotherapists treated his patients outside Theseus. But one of "my" physiotherapists works in Theseus, she is German, you will find her soon enough ;-)

Kind regards

 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Heightmare on August 10, 2019, 11:39:49 AM
Did you keep in contact with any of the patients you stayed with?

If so do you think you can tell them to write about their experiences on this forum. I'm specifically looking for anyone that underwent stryde with Dr Giotikas.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: MyBestSelf on August 10, 2019, 01:47:46 PM
Dear Jolien,

Thank you for the kind and quick answer. I will strongly consider staying at Theseus. I think you are correct that it is just easier to stay motivated. The cost is quite high, but it includes meals and nursing care, so perhaps it isn't that bad.

1). This is a stupid question, but I assume they have wifi internet at Theseus for patients to study/ do work, correct?

2). During my consultation, I spoke at length to Dr. Giotikas about physical therapy.  Giotikas told me he personally trained the physical therapists who work at Theseus and he explained to them what his lengthening patients need. He also has a "team leader" at Theseus (the name escapes me) whom Giotikas keeps in contact with to advise what the patients need, after he examines your X-rays every 2 weeks.  This was a selling point for me because it seems like the PT at Theseus is tailor made and well planned. However, at one point earlier in your forum post (on 18 May), I noticed you wrote, "Personally I was not very happy with the physiotherapy I got at Theseus. I now have private physiotherapy at home."

That being said, do you believe the quality of the physical therapy you received at Theseus was poor? I know how vital PT is for the recovery process, so just wanted to clarify this.

Thank you again for your time. 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on August 10, 2019, 02:22:51 PM
Did you keep in contact with any of the patients you stayed with?

If so do you think you can tell them to write about their experiences on this forum. I'm specifically looking for anyone that underwent stryde with Dr Giotikas.

Dear,

I do, but I dont think they want to put their story on the discussionboard. Otherwise they would already have done it.
Maybe they will do it when they are recovered.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on August 10, 2019, 02:34:32 PM
Dear Jolien,

Thank you for the kind and quick answer. I will strongly consider staying at Theseus. I think you are correct that it is just easier to stay motivated. The cost is quite high, but it includes meals and nursing care, so perhaps it isn't that bad.

1). This is a stupid question, but I assume they have wifi internet at Theseus for patients to study/ do work, correct?

2). During my consultation, I spoke at length to Dr. Giotikas about physical therapy.  Giotikas told me he personally trained the physical therapists who work at Theseus and he explained to them what his lengthening patients need. He also has a "team leader" at Theseus (the name escapes me) whom Giotikas keeps in contact with to advise what the patients need, after he examines your X-rays every 2 weeks.  This was a selling point for me because it seems like the PT at Theseus is tailor made and well planned. However, at one point earlier in your forum post (on 18 May), I noticed you wrote, "Personally I was not very happy with the physiotherapy I got at Theseus. I now have private physiotherapy at home."

That being said, do you believe the quality of the physical therapy you received at Theseus was poor? I know how vital PT is for the recovery process, so just wanted to clarify this.

Thank you again for your time.

Dear,

1.) They do have wifi!

2.) That is correct. They opened their doors 2 years ago, so in my perspective, they lack experience. And for this price, there are other more experienced physiotherapy centers. (you have to do the research I discovered this too late). But physiotherapy is not that complex. I just did the best I could with the physiotherapists and I did as many useful exercises I could by myself.  You will naturally feel the needs of your body. They also gave me a lot of exercises that I could do on my own.

In my view, your recovery depends on your own dedication to do as much as you can and by not quitting when you feel pain. A physiotherapist who pushes you to the limit (which my german physiotherapist did) helps you in pushing through. Also dont tell them to stop when it gets hard or you are exhausted. That way they can build the exercises up.

They are not too bad, it all depends on your attitude, mindset and most of all what you do in between the sessions (netflix vs. exercises, walking, stretching). Not that I was constantly busy (I slept maybe 16 hours a day) But when I was awake I always tried to do useful things.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: MyBestSelf on August 10, 2019, 03:13:40 PM
Thank you so much Jolien. I agree with all your points.

I sent you a quick PM and would really appreciate a response when you get some time.

Thank you again and have a great rest of your weekend!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: ujin0101 on September 08, 2019, 09:52:32 PM
Hi Jolien, I sent you a quick PM and would really appreciate a response when you get some time.  :)
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: sylar94 on October 15, 2019, 06:14:48 PM
Jolien, how is your walking now?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: CodyTheDog on October 16, 2019, 02:00:37 AM
Dear,

1.) They do have wifi!

2.) That is correct. They opened their doors 2 years ago, so in my perspective, they lack experience. And for this price, there are other more experienced physiotherapy centers. (you have to do the research I discovered this too late). But physiotherapy is not that complex. I just did the best I could with the physiotherapists and I did as many useful exercises I could by myself.  You will naturally feel the needs of your body. They also gave me a lot of exercises that I could do on my own.

In my view, your recovery depends on your own dedication to do as much as you can and by not quitting when you feel pain. A physiotherapist who pushes you to the limit (which my german physiotherapist did) helps you in pushing through. Also dont tell them to stop when it gets hard or you are exhausted. That way they can build the exercises up.

They are not too bad, it all depends on your attitude, mindset and most of all what you do in between the sessions (netflix vs. exercises, walking, stretching). Not that I was constantly busy (I slept maybe 16 hours a day) But when I was awake I always tried to do useful things.

Kind regards

Jolien

Thanks for making this diary, Jolien!

1. Does Dr. Giotikas do STRYDE on tibias?

2. What are some reasons aside from price you went with LON on tibias instead of STRYDE?

3. What do you think, aside from the travel, are the biggest disadvantages of doing LL with Dr. Giotikas instead of say Dr. Mahoubian (assuming the patient is American)?
I heard the language barrier isn't that bad and there are plenty of English speakers.

I haven't been to a foreign country before. I'm American. I'm not sure how much culture shock is really a thing when one goes to another western country.

4. What do you and other cosmetic LL patients think of Dr. Giotikas in terms of his skills and experience? I am somewhat worried because it seems like Dr. Mahoubian or Dr. Paley would have more experience.

5. Did you have to do a psychological evaluation before you did lengthening with him? Did he place any limits on the total length you have to do?

6. If you were doing internal STRYDE tibias with Dr. Giotikas, how much would you budget for the whole thing (including apartment/living costs/caretaker costs, etc)?

Thanks!!!!!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on October 16, 2019, 09:54:22 AM
Jolien, how is your walking now?

Perfect!! I will upload a video soon!!!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on October 16, 2019, 10:11:15 AM
Thanks for making this diary, Jolien!

1. Does Dr. Giotikas do STRYDE on tibias?

2. What are some reasons aside from price you went with LON on tibias instead of STRYDE?

3. What do you think, aside from the travel, are the biggest disadvantages of doing LL with Dr. Giotikas instead of say Dr. Mahoubian (assuming the patient is American)?
I heard the language barrier isn't that bad and there are plenty of English speakers.

I haven't been to a foreign country before. I'm American. I'm not sure how much culture shock is really a thing when one goes to another western country.

4. What do you and other cosmetic LL patients think of Dr. Giotikas in terms of his skills and experience? I am somewhat worried because it seems like Dr. Mahoubian or Dr. Paley would have more experience.

5. Did you have to do a psychological evaluation before you did lengthening with him? Did he place any limits on the total length you have to do?

6. If you were doing internal STRYDE tibias with Dr. Giotikas, how much would you budget for the whole thing (including apartment/living costs/caretaker costs, etc)?

Thanks!!!!!

Dear,

1. Yes he does

2. Because STRYDE wasn't available in February 2019 yet, and I couldn't postpone it till May (when STRYDE was available with Dr. Giotikas)  + I also had to do a tibia-rotation together with the lengthening, which could be done most precise with LON.

2. For me 100% price related. If I could go to a more experienced and known guy, no doubt. But he was the most reliable doctor which I could afford.

3. Because it is in Greece, the country is not nice to stay because of severe economic problems and because of their southern mentality which is very different from the Northern Europe mentality. So if you can afford it I would highly recommend to go to Germany, Northern US,...

4. What he has told me: He has done around 30 leg-lengthening patients at the time I was in Greece + started with Stryde in April 2019. Although He told me he has a lot of experience with external fixators (non-cosmetical).

5. I had to fill in a psychological questionnaire. I initially wanted to do 7cm, he said: start with 5cm and see how it looks. It all depends on how you are doing during lengthening. But I think if I really really wanted to go to 7cm I could. But he definetly didn't recommend. I also think Stryde has a maximal length capacity, precice doesnt (correct me if I'm wrong on this one!)

6. Just add the extra costs for the stryde. This is sooo personal and also depends on sooo many things. I've seen so many differences between me and other patients who were staying there. I think you just have to over-estimate a lot to be prepaired. (I already posted my savings and calculations but eventually spend almost double so its very variable)

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: daikioni on October 16, 2019, 10:24:06 AM
Jolien  do you recommend him as a doctor? did you feel safe the entire time?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on October 16, 2019, 10:31:48 AM
Jolien  do you recommend him as a doctor? did you feel safe the entire time?

I think you never feel 100% save because you are so vulnerable. Also the way of communicating if different between north and south europe so to be honest I didnt felt 100% safe always! Ofcourse I cannot compare between leg-lenghtening doctors.

I do recommend him if you cannot afford to go to Germany or something like that.

Kind regards

Jolien 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: daikioni on October 16, 2019, 10:41:25 AM
Ty jolien for your help to be honest i want to know if he is a good option as doctor and if you are satisfied with the result. the communication is not an issue for me! i live in athens!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: CodyTheDog on October 16, 2019, 08:40:58 PM
Dear,

3. Because it is in Greece, the country is not nice to stay because of severe economic problems and because of their southern mentality which is very different from the Northern Europe mentality. So if you can afford it I would highly recommend to go to Germany, Northern US,...

Thanks! I'm a bit curious about this.

a. Do the severe economic problems mean more theft on the streets or something? Does it feel less safe/less clean?

b. What is meant by "southern mentality" and what are some examples?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on October 17, 2019, 05:06:17 PM
Thanks! I'm a bit curious about this.

a. Do the severe economic problems mean more theft on the streets or something? Does it feel less safe/less clean?

b. What is meant by "southern mentality" and what are some examples?

a. definitely not clean and not save on the streets.

b. If you ask for more information or you are not oke with the decision made it is difficult to discuss things. You have to be very clear in communication and very attentive. It is difficult to explain but is you go to Italy, Spain etc. it is all kind of the same.

Kind regards

Joline
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Rectifying_Genetics on October 17, 2019, 05:58:37 PM
Hold on a moment, I have followed Jolien's diary and have been very impressed with the content, but some of the things she is saying here are based on opinion not fact.

Firstly this:
a. definitely not clean and not save on the streets.

Having spent a considerable amount on time in both Athens and LA I know were I'd rather walk the streets at night, and here are the facts as proof, also feel free to look at Greece vs these "Northern European" countries you mention you will find it's actually very safe.

https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Greece/United-States/Crime (https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Greece/United-States/Crime)

Secondly this:

I do recommend him if you cannot afford to go to Germany or something like that.

What doctor are you meaning in Germany, I think you would be hard pushed to find a better one than Dr Giotikas. Again I would base this on facts, for example if the doctor is Dr Betz I can find countless diaries of poor outcomes.

Seems strange you are running down the Dr and the country that gave you such a great result, if I was you I would be thinking how lucky I have been.

Thanks

RG
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Michael01 on October 17, 2019, 06:00:25 PM
Hi, Jolien.
When is your next set of xrays?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on October 18, 2019, 05:55:16 PM
Hold on a moment, I have followed Jolien's diary and have been very impressed with the content, but some of the things she is saying here are based on opinion not fact.

Firstly this:
Having spent a considerable amount on time in both Athens and LA I know were I'd rather walk the streets at night, and here are the facts as proof, also feel free to look at Greece vs these "Northern European" countries you mention you will find it's actually very safe.

https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Greece/United-States/Crime (https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Greece/United-States/Crime)

Secondly this:

What doctor are you meaning in Germany, I think you would be hard pushed to find a better one than Dr Giotikas. Again I would base this on facts, for example if the doctor is Dr Betz I can find countless diaries of poor outcomes.

Seems strange you are running down the Dr and the country that gave you such a great result, if I was you I would be thinking how lucky I have been.

Thanks

RG

Dear,

Of course, this is my dairy, what do you expect. If you want facts, I would not recommend this forum anyway.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on October 18, 2019, 05:57:47 PM
Hi, Jolien.
When is your next set of xrays?

Dear,

They are planned the 18th of November, I always try to upload them in my google drive the same day. You can find the most recent ones (21th september) also in my google word doc.

I'm also gonna try to upload this evening a video of myself walking etc.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: HeightGain on October 18, 2019, 08:31:53 PM
Hold on a moment, I have followed Jolien's diary and have been very impressed with the content, but some of the things she is saying here are based on opinion not fact.

Firstly this:
Having spent a considerable amount on time in both Athens and LA I know were I'd rather walk the streets at night, and here are the facts as proof, also feel free to look at Greece vs these "Northern European" countries you mention you will find it's actually very safe.

https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Greece/United-States/Crime (https://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/compare/Greece/United-States/Crime)

Secondly this:

What doctor are you meaning in Germany, I think you would be hard pushed to find a better one than Dr Giotikas. Again I would base this on facts, for example if the doctor is Dr Betz I can find countless diaries of poor outcomes.

Seems strange you are running down the Dr and the country that gave you such a great result, if I was you I would be thinking how lucky I have been.

Thanks

RG

Jolien has done a good diary. I would favor US or Northern Europe over Southern Europe and think most would.

I hope you decision to defend Giotikas is due to your choice to go with him rather than some other motive.

Your previous post you state a leg length of 88cm, with a tibia femur ratio of 1.14 and sitting height of 97cm and height of 175cm. These measurements don't make sense to me. I'm not sure what is going on.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: TwinMusicom on October 23, 2019, 12:36:04 AM
a. definitely not clean and not save on the streets.

b. If you ask for more information or you are not oke with the decision made it is difficult to discuss things. You have to be very clear in communication and very attentive. It is difficult to explain but is you go to Italy, Spain etc. it is all kind of the same.

Kind regards

Joline

Thanks, Joline!

During leg lengthening, what phrases in Greek have been most useful for you to
1. To say yourself?
2. To understand other people say?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on November 03, 2019, 04:59:15 PM
Thanks, Joline!

During leg lengthening, what phrases in Greek have been most useful for you to
1. To say yourself?
2. To understand other people say?

Dear,

You really don't need to know a word Greek ;p

What I still know is parakalos : they say it when the enter the room or pick up the phone, it's hi or something

"callispera" = good evening
"callinigta" = good night

the others I already forgot woops!  ::)

I just talked English and if there were people who couldn't speak it very well I used Google translate.

Kind regards

Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: .. on November 20, 2019, 10:47:29 PM
Hi Jolien,

I hope you are doing well! I have a few questions that I'd like to ask you.

1. You did all of this without your family knowing. What did you tell them that you suddenly disappeared for a year or so? And how did you pay it since you're only 22?

2. Is Theseus owned by Athens BJR? And regarding the food, can you eat as much as you want?

3. You recommend Northern Europe over Greece. Which particular clinic/doctor in Norther Europe do you believe is a better choice than Dr. Giotikas and Athens BJR?

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Thank you in advance,

Bruce Wayne
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on November 25, 2019, 01:21:58 PM
Hi Jolien,

I hope you are doing well! I have a few questions that I'd like to ask you.

1. You did all of this without your family knowing. What did you tell them that you suddenly disappeared for a year or so? And how did you pay it since you're only 22?

2. Is Theseus owned by Athens BJR? And regarding the food, can you eat as much as you want?

3. You recommend Northern Europe over Greece. Which particular clinic/doctor in Norther Europe do you believe is a better choice than Dr. Giotikas and Athens BJR?

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Thank you in advance,

Bruce Wayne

Dear Bruce,

1.) I told them I was on an internship. The way I earned all this money is private, I'm sorry.

2.) No it is not owned by Athens BJR. Yes you can eat as much as you want.

3.) There is not a particular doctor I recommend, it is just IF there happens a serious complication you will praise the lord you are in a Northern Europe hospital. So for me everything went perfectly because I was sooo lucky nothing bad happened to me, but if somehting happens, the more Northern you are located the better.

Kind regards

Jolien

Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Scorpstar on November 25, 2019, 02:09:12 PM
How do you mean by Northern Europe hospitals? As far as I know most northern european countries healthcare systems do not offer any CLL. Or do you mean that if a complication occurs during CLL (that one did in some other country) then northern european countries' public healthcare might come to your rescue if you belong from there?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: nomad13 on November 25, 2019, 08:15:06 PM
Hi Jolien,

How are you doing now, how is recovery and athletic recovery could you run already and any pains at this point and do you have any knee pain? As people with LON complain about knee pain
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: .. on November 26, 2019, 12:44:41 AM
Dear Bruce,

1.) I told them I was on an internship. The way I earned all this money is private, I'm sorry.

2.) No it is not owned by Athens BJR. Yes you can eat as much as you want.

3.) There is not a particular doctor I recommend, it is just IF there happens a serious complication you will praise the lord you are in a Northern Europe hospital. So for me everything went perfectly because I was sooo lucky nothing bad happened to me, but if somehting happens, the more Northern you are located the better.

Kind regards

Jolien

Hi Jolien,

1. So if you could go back and do it again, which rehabilitation center would be the best choice? And I presume if you live in rehabilitation center, you don't need to hire an aide anymore right?

2. Why did you choose LON when pure external TSF is I believe the safest form of LL for tibia? With LON it's believed to cause permanent knee problems.

3. Don't you fear dying or being permanently crippled by the surgery at all? How safe do you think it actually is? I still lack of guts to do it :(

Thank you,
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on November 27, 2019, 08:00:32 PM
Hi Jolien,

1. So if you could go back and do it again, which rehabilitation center would be the best choice? And I presume if you live in rehabilitation center, you don't need to hire an aide anymore right?

2. Why did you choose LON when pure external TSF is I believe the safest form of LL for tibia? With LON it's believed to cause permanent knee problems.

3. Don't you fear dying or being permanently crippled by the surgery at all? How safe do you think it actually is? I still lack of guts to do it :(

Thank you,

Dear,

1. I have no idea, I only have knowledge of the existence of more experienced rehabilitation centres, but I dont know which ones, I discovered this too late. No, you dont need to hire an aid if you stay as an inpatient, I only asked her sometimes to buy something from outside the centre occasionaly.

2. I preferred LON because I could take the externals of after the lengthening-process. I didnt had enough time to stay at home for 9 months with those externals on.

3. Since I'm still alive I dont fear dying from the leg lengthening hahah. But you have to consider this for you own, nobody can make this decision for you. I think the risks of osteomyelitis and dropfoot etc. are well known.

I wish you the best.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on November 27, 2019, 08:03:02 PM
How do you mean by Northern Europe hospitals? As far as I know most northern european countries healthcare systems do not offer any CLL. Or do you mean that if a complication occurs during CLL (that one did in some other country) then northern european countries' public healthcare might come to your rescue if you belong from there?

By my knowledge you can do CLL in England and Germany for sure, I even think you can do it in the Netherlands.

I think you know what I mean right? For me it seems obvious that the more developped the country the saver you are.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on November 27, 2019, 08:05:33 PM
Hi Jolien,

How are you doing now, how is recovery and athletic recovery could you run already and any pains at this point and do you have any knee pain? As people with LON complain about knee pain

Dear,

I'm doing great, thanks for asking.

I cannot really run, I think it is because of the nails, it feels very strange when I run, I'm gonna post a video this evening, promise!!

I have pain in my knees when I sit on my knees (like kneeling down) but that's because the nail is right there, when I take it out, the pain will be gone. I dont have any chronical pain when I walk or something, it is really minimal since I almost never kneel down haha

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: kiki11 on November 28, 2019, 03:29:02 AM
Hey Jolien,

Good to hear that you are doing great!

Did you ever shared your x-ray? If possible, can you share?

How's your scar?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on November 28, 2019, 08:13:04 AM
Hey Jolien,

Good to hear that you are doing great!

Did you ever shared your x-ray? If possible, can you share?

How's your scar?

Dear,

Please check my google drive in my first message in this discussion, everything (including the x-ray and scar) is in the google doc.

Kind regards
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on November 28, 2019, 08:13:52 AM
Dear,

I posted a new video in my google drive of my jumping, running, everything.

I also posted new pictures of my scars.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: daikioni on November 28, 2019, 08:23:25 AM
Jolien i just saw your video im very impressed good job!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: dunghuynh2227 on November 30, 2019, 07:52:04 AM
Very nice. I have a question . Does dr allow you walking right after frame removal . My dr say the callus is not strong enough to walk and recommend to wait 2-3 months.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: nomad13 on November 30, 2019, 02:24:21 PM
Very nice. I have a question . Does dr allow you walking right after frame removal . My dr say the callus is not strong enough to walk and recommend to wait 2-3 months.

do you mean to walk without aids or walking in general?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: dunghuynh2227 on November 30, 2019, 03:27:19 PM
do you mean to walk without aids or walking in general?
without aids
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on December 02, 2019, 11:04:51 AM
without aids

Dear,

the first days I was not allowed to walk to much, but because I have a full-weight bearing internal nail I can walk without worrying :-D

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: TemakiSushi on December 02, 2019, 11:52:22 AM
Dear,

the first days I was not allowed to walk to much, but because I have a full-weight bearing internal nail I can walk without worrying :-D

Kind regards

Jolien
Do you feel tibias get thicker after lengthening?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: tacoma94 on December 03, 2019, 03:57:55 AM
Hi Jolien,

I cannot thank you enough for this diary. You match my situation almost exactly. I am 168, and due to the risk of PE/DVT/FES as well as price, I am not considering pure internal tibias/femurs, only externals + LATN on tibia. I am going for 4-4.5cm maximum (for safety and personal reasons, I refuse to go beyond this limit), am currently 24 years old. Am also planning to keep this a secret.

I have 3 questions:
1. You mentioned that Giotikas was the best doctor you could find for your price range. I have a bit more funds, and I am strongly considering Donghoon Lee, due to his strength in Tibias+LATN as well as his perfect track record for major permanent complications. May I ask, did you consider him, and if price was not a concern, would he be one of your top choices?
2. Secondly, I read your google doc and you mentioned a 5% chance of internal nail infection. I want to understand this risk better. For the 5%, was it because they did not take good care, or due to the doctor's fault? Are internal nail infections more a fault of the patient or the doctor? And IF a internal nail infection occurred, how did the hospital say they will fix it?
3. Did you ever consider the risk of DVT/PE due to the internal rod? Did the doctor mention anything about the risk, relative to say internal femur or pure externals?

Your answers, if you have time, will be sooo helpful. I wish you the very best and a safe recovery!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: TemakiSushi on December 03, 2019, 12:20:00 PM
Dear,

the first days I was not allowed to walk to much, but because I have a full-weight bearing internal nail I can walk without worrying :-D

Kind regards

Jolien
Last question I asked wrongly
Correction
Do you feel your calf muscle became thicker after the lengthening?
Or is it due to lots training, you have thicker calf?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on December 03, 2019, 04:10:19 PM
Hi Jolien,

I cannot thank you enough for this diary. You match my situation almost exactly. I am 168, and due to the risk of PE/DVT/FES as well as price, I am not considering pure internal tibias/femurs, only externals + LATN on tibia. I am going for 4-4.5cm maximum (for safety and personal reasons, I refuse to go beyond this limit), am currently 24 years old. Am also planning to keep this a secret.

I have 3 questions:
1. You mentioned that Giotikas was the best doctor you could find for your price range. I have a bit more funds, and I am strongly considering Donghoon Lee, due to his strength in Tibias+LATN as well as his perfect track record for major permanent complications. May I ask, did you consider him, and if price was not a concern, would he be one of your top choices?
2. Secondly, I read your google doc and you mentioned a 5% chance of internal nail infection. I want to understand this risk better. For the 5%, was it because they did not take good care, or due to the doctor's fault? Are internal nail infections more a fault of the patient or the doctor? And IF a internal nail infection occurred, how did the hospital say they will fix it?
3. Did you ever consider the risk of DVT/PE due to the internal rod? Did the doctor mention anything about the risk, relative to say internal femur or pure externals?

Your answers, if you have time, will be sooo helpful. I wish you the very best and a safe recovery!

Dear,

1. I've never heard of him, so no I did not considered him. I think I cancelled him out of my options very early because of the price :p

2. For what I think is this 5% a percentage described in the medicine literature, based on previous experience from doctors all over the world. The risk of internal nails infection is so high because the bacteria can travel via the external pins to your bone and when the are in the bone (calles osteomyelitis) they have free access to the internal nail. I was terrified this would happen when I had an infection of one of the external nails at the height of my knee, because there the external nail was suuuuper close to the internal nail. So it is very logic the infection risk is very high. This is why I recommend to keep the external nails dry and to use a des-infectans spray every day at every pinsite (I didnt thought about it till I had an infection at the very end of my lengthening journey). Try to never touch the pinsite is and alway keep it covered with a gauze of something. 

If you have an infected internal nail they will have to take the internal nail out and 'wash' the internal space of your bone out.

3. The risk for pulmonary embolism en DVT is in first instance post-operative because they brake your bone. Bone marrow contains fat that can travel in your blood and cause DVT and Pulm. embolism. So I think you only have a higher risk right after the operation. During the lengthening phase I think everybody has the same risk just because of all the movement (lengthening) inside your leg.

Kin regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on December 03, 2019, 04:11:49 PM
Last question I asked wrongly
Correction
Do you feel your calf muscle became thicker after the lengthening?
Or is it due to lots training, you have thicker calf?

That is correct!!!

This is still edema (fluid) because the bone is still not healed so there is still an inflammation process going on which causes fluid build-up in my legs. This is temporarily till my bone is completely healed :-)

Kind regards!

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on December 03, 2019, 04:26:21 PM
Dear,

just posted my x-rays I had done yesterday (2/12/2019) = 6 months after completion leg-lengthening

Next x-ray will be in May 2020 because the internal nail can be removed at least one year after completion leg-lengthening, so we are gonna see if the bone healing is completed by then.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: TemakiSushi on December 04, 2019, 03:27:37 AM
That is correct!!!

This is still edema (fluid) because the bone is still not healed so there is still an inflammation process going on which causes fluid build-up in my legs. This is temporarily till my bone is completely healed :-)

Kind regards!

Jolien
Thank you very much for your answer
I’m a bit scared of getting thicker calf since mine is already thick with natural muscles
I don’t train but thick to begin with :'(
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: tacoma94 on December 04, 2019, 09:04:28 AM
Hey thank you for the quick reply!

It is likely I will do this procedure, I will definitely make an extremely detailed diary like you for others.

When you said that you sprayed your pin sites with disinfectant, was this something you did from the start or only after you had your first infection? Also, if I am extremely careful, never taking a shower and using disinfectant every few hours, can I eliminate the risk of external/internal infection?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Great321 on December 04, 2019, 12:27:10 PM
Thank you very much for your answer
I’m a bit scared of getting thicker calf since mine is already thick with natural muscles
I don’t train but thick to begin with :'(

Didn't Dr. Lee recommend wearing compression stockings for 2 years after the surgery to avoid the calves get much thicker? I heard him saying that in one video.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Great321 on December 04, 2019, 12:35:56 PM
Hey thank you for the quick reply!

It is likely I will do this procedure, I will definitely make an extremely detailed diary like you for others.

When you said that you sprayed your pin sites with disinfectant, was this something you did from the start or only after you had your first infection? Also, if I am extremely careful, never taking a shower and using disinfectant every few hours, can I eliminate the risk of external/internal infection?

The doctor will most likely explain to you how and with exactly which disinfectants you can clean your pin sites. In the beginning I was supposed to do it every day, later it was 3 times a week and even later only once a week. Apparantly too much cleaning can cause problems too. I wasn't allowed to shower for the first 2 months. But I didn't shower for even longer to avoid infections. If you do a thorough "cat lick" or how it's called, you'll be fine. I recommend guys to trim their hair to a few mm, it makes it easier to wash your hair.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: TemakiSushi on December 04, 2019, 03:04:59 PM
Didn't Dr. Lee recommend wearing compression stockings for 2 years after the surgery to avoid the calves get much thicker? I heard him saying that in one video.
If the thickening is due to the muscle then stocking won’t work.  I was afraid it’s her muscles
if it’s edema then stocking may work I guess
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on December 04, 2019, 04:07:10 PM
Hey thank you for the quick reply!

It is likely I will do this procedure, I will definitely make an extremely detailed diary like you for others.

When you said that you sprayed your pin sites with disinfectant, was this something you did from the start or only after you had your first infection? Also, if I am extremely careful, never taking a shower and using disinfectant every few hours, can I eliminate the risk of external/internal infection?

I started spraying after my first infection! I regret this! The important thing is to use a spray, so try to not touch it!! and let it dry on the air and afterwards use clean gauzes. The key thing is to touch it as little as possible and reduce the risk of accidently touching it with something (that's why I used gauzes to cover them up). The second key thing is to keep it dry. I really think this can decrease the risk for infection massively since I have seen a patient who didnt took care of then and didnt covered them and had 'inflammations' constantly and my kinetherapist told me about one of her previous patient who alway showered with it and also had infections.

I this the very most important thing in this entire journey is to use your own common sense and to be as consistent as possible.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on December 04, 2019, 04:08:15 PM
Hey thank you for the quick reply!

It is likely I will do this procedure, I will definitely make an extremely detailed diary like you for others.

When you said that you sprayed your pin sites with disinfectant, was this something you did from the start or only after you had your first infection? Also, if I am extremely careful, never taking a shower and using disinfectant every few hours, can I eliminate the risk of external/internal infection?

One small addition; use a disinfectans without alcohol (ethanol) cause this causes tissue damage which can eventually increase the risk for infections.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: cam007 on February 16, 2020, 06:21:24 AM
Ive lurked for a while and this is one of those most comfortable feeling diaries I’ve read.   I have more than half my money saved and am also doing LON Tobias max 5.5cm.

Im a guy though but am super surprised with your patience , especially with everyone asking the same questions half the time Becuase they didn’t read thru the diary smh.

I’ve written down all the vitamins and exercises and read your pdf in your drive . I’m going to try and copy every thing you did so I can move like that in 5mths too. I’ve only told one person I’m doing this. Everyone else I don’t care what they think and they can talk to me when I’m 2inch taller lol.

Congrats on having a good recovery !
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Alexa on February 27, 2020, 09:48:55 PM
Hey girl!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience :)

Just wondering how your scars are doing and if they look any different from when you first shared?

Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 01, 2020, 08:49:25 AM
Ive lurked for a while and this is one of those most comfortable feeling diaries I’ve read.   I have more than half my money saved and am also doing LON Tobias max 5.5cm.

Im a guy though but am super surprised with your patience , especially with everyone asking the same questions half the time Becuase they didn’t read thru the diary smh.

I’ve written down all the vitamins and exercises and read your pdf in your drive . I’m going to try and copy every thing you did so I can move like that in 5mths too. I’ve only told one person I’m doing this. Everyone else I don’t care what they think and they can talk to me when I’m 2inch taller lol.

Congrats on having a good recovery !
Dear,

I'm happy to read this!
I wish you all the best!! Good luck!!

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Jolien on May 01, 2020, 08:51:57 AM
Hey girl!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience :)

Just wondering how your scars are doing and if they look any different from when you first shared?

Dear,

I will post a new video of me walking and running and I will post some clear pictures of my scars!
Because of the Corona-crisis I havent got recent x-rays to show you guys.

Kind regards

Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Samsunny889 on May 06, 2020, 09:44:16 PM
I think u can let the nail remain. May I ask if the nail is bothering / hurting you while walking & running. Also Do you think that after one year post operation you have been able to return 80-90% of your preop level.
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: limbcllnea on June 11, 2020, 02:22:19 AM
Glad it went perfectly for you.

Did you do any stretching/excercises pre-surgery to help prepare for the surgery? If so what did you do and for how long?
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: more on July 17, 2020, 08:48:48 AM
Jolien Your diary very discriptive and full of knowledge
but one thing i noticed Your knees are not in right position they are moving toward inside and look like x-legs
Your walk does not look normal
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: azman on July 17, 2020, 09:13:08 AM
Jolien Your diary very discriptive and full of knowledge
but one thing i noticed Your knees are not in right position they are moving toward inside and look like x-legs
Your walk does not look normal

Boy oh boy, should I just keep my mouth shut 🤐 on this post.  This is some funny sh#t, damn you are entertaining Dr. More.  What the hell is X-legs Dr. More? 

This is #5 of Dr. G patients that you posted on or should I say commented on.  You must have a hard on for Dr. G patients. 

Dr. More who do you actually work for, wait let me guess wannabetaller? 
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: more on July 17, 2020, 09:45:19 AM
Boy oh boy, should I just keep my mouth shut 🤐 on this post.  This is some funny sh#t, damn you are entertaining Dr. More.  What the hell is X-legs Dr. More? 

This is #5 of Dr. G patients that you posted on or should I say commented on.  You must have a hard on for Dr. G patients. 

Dr. More who do you actually work for, wait let me guess wannabetaller?
Her walk is not normal , see her right knee moving toward inside
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: gigaki on July 18, 2020, 01:06:44 PM
By Xlegs I assume he means valgus defomity- I think this is assumed because her knees are inwardly rotating relatively to her feet. You do not need to be an expert to notice her knees are not pointing forward and make such a  speculation. This is  usually caused by external tibia torsion. People with this deformity can only walk with their feet forward by compensating (inwardly rotating hips/knees). I am also surprised by the fact that she had rotational correction as well. I expected alignment to be restored but it seems like it is not!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Gman23 on July 19, 2020, 05:44:28 PM
I hope you recover fast, how much did you lengthen ?? And what do you think about 2 surgeries, 5 inches gain 3inches on tibia and 2 on femurs. please reply, thank you
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: more on July 19, 2020, 06:03:05 PM


Dear Gman23 . You already know the cost and everything. Go and see Your own posts and comments
You arleady have 3 Threads in ' Limb lengthening patients experience about cost and all with dr.Giotikas . one thread is removed already .
You are popping up dr.Giotikas diary . F### man this forum is full of fake patients
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Gman23 on July 19, 2020, 11:32:46 PM

Dear Gman23 . You already know the cost and everything. Go and see Your own posts and comments
You arleady have 3 Threads in ' Limb lengthening patients experience about cost and all with dr.Giotikas . one thread is removed already .
You are popping up dr.Giotikas diary . F### man this forum is full of fake patients


Lol well yeah but I’m not familiar with the nails, I only know about Stryde nail being a good one. But not sure what LON is or the others. And what do you mean by fake patients? I’ve read few diaries of Dr giotikas and he seems like a reliable surgeon...
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: infinity&beyond on January 12, 2021, 06:48:30 AM
All finished for you then. And what a journey it has been! This is my favourite diary of the many I’ve read on here. Your start to finish completion has been nothing short of inspiring. In fact I’m jealous.

Seems you don’t come on here much anymore now that it’s done for you, but in case you do please reply to this. Thanks for your google drive, it’s really helpful. However, I was wondering if you could provide a before and after set of videos. Nothing of this sort on the google drive. Do you think you could put something together? Interested to see what a 5cm actually adds to tibia looks like in photos.

Thanks Jolien
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: ghkid2019 on January 12, 2021, 09:02:49 AM
Wow, Jolien. Never really seen this type of diary format before. So neat! Google Drive with all videos, an executive summary, a google doc with tons of photos and clear & neat formatting, what you did and aftermaths, etc , still posting updates to this day (Though you've last been on half a year ago), a spreadsheet with short diary entries. Also very obvious you enjoyed paying a premium to stay at the physio center instead renting a place or an airbnb alone.. better for you mentally and physically.. I'll keep that in mind

Definitely one of the most descriptive diaries I've read. I will probably do something like this format for diary- it's super neat

Saw your xrays on July 10th. Looking really good. Congrats Jolien on your long attractive legs!

Thank you so much for recording your experience!
Title: Re: Dr Giotikas, LON 5cm Tibia
Post by: Vibes on January 20, 2021, 03:36:07 AM
Wow, Jolien. Never really seen this type of diary format before. So neat! Google Drive with all videos, an executive summary, a google doc with tons of photos and clear & neat formatting, what you did and aftermaths, etc , still posting updates to this day (Though you've last been on half a year ago), a spreadsheet with short diary entries. Also very obvious you enjoyed paying a premium to stay at the physio center instead renting a place or an airbnb alone.. better for you mentally and physically.. I'll keep that in mind

Definitely one of the most descriptive diaries I've read. I will probably do something like this format for diary- it's super neat

Saw your xrays on July 10th. Looking really good. Congrats Jolien on your long attractive legs!

Thank you so much for recording your experience!

TY for bumping this to my attention ghkid I probably would have never seen  8) you are right this is an awesome diary given how sweet it is formatted and I'd like to do something also similar for my diary.