In a surprising twist from the romantic comedy-drama *Materialists*, matchmaker Lucy, played by Dakota Johnson, uncovers a shocking secret about her new boyfriend, financier Harry, portrayed by Pedro Pascal. After noticing scars on his legs, Harry reveals he underwent a controversial leg-lengthening surgery, gaining an impressive six inches in height. This revelation leads to their swift breakup, highlighting the risks and realities behind this trending cosmetic procedure.

The Dark Side of Beauty Trends

As demand surges for cosmetic enhancements, particularly the tantalizing allure of added height, the NHS in England is stepping in with a stark warning. This surgery, originally developed in the 1950s by Soviet surgeon Gavriil Abramovich Ilizarov for medical purposes, has shifted into the realm of aesthetics, causing concerns among health professionals.

How Does the Procedure Work?

The process is as daunting as it sounds: surgeons break the bones in the legs and gradually pull them apart to increase length over a painstaking recovery period. While some clinics in Turkey advertise the procedure for as low as £24,000, private treatment in the UK can skyrocket to more than £50,000, with some fees even reaching £240,000.

The Risks You Need to Know!

But the NHS warns that this is no glamorous fix. The surgery requires patients to cope with weeks of immobility followed by daily adjustments to a limb-lengthening device, which can lead to excruciating pain and a multitude of serious risks, including infection, nerve damage, and even permanent disability. The complications could even result in legs of different lengths.

Expert Opinions on This Trend

Professor Tim Briggs, an esteemed orthopaedic surgeon, emphasizes that leg-lengthening surgery is a "serious, invasive procedure" that, while beneficial for those with genuine medical needs, carries significant risks. He insists potential patients must have thorough discussions with their surgeons and weigh their options carefully before opting for such a drastic cosmetic change.

A Final Word of Caution

"This is not a gamble worth taking for mere aesthetic gain," Briggs cautions. "The allure of extra inches can come at a steep price to one’s health and quality of life. Make sure you're fully informed before diving into such a life-altering decision."