People often go to great lengths to alter their appearance. While some changes can be positive, others may lead to feelings of regret.
Theresia Fischer, an influencer and former contestant on German Celebrity Big Brother, certainly took significant steps to transform herself. Initially standing at 5’6″, she underwent a leg lengthening procedure at 24, adding an impressive 5.5 inches to her height.
At first, she was thrilled with the outcome, but over time, she began to have second thoughts. Leg lengthening surgery is quite challenging, as it involves a complex process that gradually extends the bones in the legs.
This procedure is commonly performed to address discrepancies in leg length, but it can also be utilized for cases where the bone is shorter or has an irregular shape. Recently, it has gained popularity as a cosmetic option as well.
While the procedure can be quite challenging, it does come with certain risks. According to Professor Hamish Simpson from the British Orthopaedic Association, this field is advancing rapidly.
“The techniques and technology have seen significant improvements over the last few decades, enhancing the safety of the procedure.”
“Nonetheless, in addition to generating more bone, there is a need to develop additional muscle, nerves, blood vessels, and skin, making the entire process highly intricate and associated with a considerable rate of complications.”
Fischer was just 24 when she decided to have the procedure done. She had telescopic rods placed in her shins, which allowed for gradual leg extension.
Ultimately, she grew from 5’6″ to over 6 feet tall. By the time she was 31, she shared in an interview that her ex-boyfriend had encouraged her to go through with the surgery.
He reportedly told her, “Theresia, you know I like taller women. This could really work for you. You could gain up to 14 centimeters.”
The influencer expressed, “[He would say] ‘You can’t do anything without me. You need me.’ Hearing that 20, 30, 60, or even 70 times makes you start to believe you’re nothing without him.”
While she has generally been content with her body, she now feels some regret about such a significant change. She admitted, “I feel ashamed because I agreed to a procedure that I shouldn’t have.”
“I’ve never confronted those feelings before since I’ve always been happy with my appearance.”
Beyond the emotional impact, she is also dealing with posterior sternum inflammation, which happens when the connective tissue around the bone becomes inflamed. This condition forced her to leave the German version of the Battle of the Reality Stars show.
Additionally, she faces challenges because one of the bones in her legs hasn’t developed as expected. She is now hopeful about the possibility of having the rods removed in the future.
