Table of Contents
A Parent’s Common Worry
It’s natural for parents to worry when they see their child’s legs curve outward. While mild bow legs can be normal in toddlers, persistent or worsening deformity after age three often signals an underlying problem. The good news is that modern techniques like guided growth surgery provide a safe, minimally invasive way to correct bow legs while children are still growing.
Understanding Bow Legs in Children
What Are Bow Legs?
- A condition where the legs curve outward at the knees, creating a noticeable gap between them when standing.
- Medically known as genu varum.
When to Be Concerned
- Bowing that persists beyond age three
- Worsening curvature with growth
- Associated pain, limping, or difficulty running
- Underlying conditions like Blount’s disease or rickets
Traditional Approaches vs Modern Solutions
Older Treatment Methods
- Braces, orthotics, and casts are often tried in early years.
- In severe cases, osteotomy (cutting and realigning bone) was once the only surgical option.
Limitations
- Osteotomy is invasive, involves bone cutting, has a longer recovery, and higher risks.
What Is Guided Growth Surgery?
A Minimally Invasive Technique
Guided growth surgery uses a small tension band plate and screws to control how the growth plate develops. By slowing growth on one side of the knee, the opposite side catches up, gradually straightening the leg.
How It Works
- Small incision near the knee joint
- The plate is placed on one side of the growth plate
- The child continues normal activities while the legs correct naturally
- Once corrected, the plate is removed
Why Guided Growth Surgery Is a Game-Changer
Gentle and Natural Correction
The child’s own growth does the work – no bone cutting required.
Faster Recovery and Less Pain
- Short hospital stay
- Quick return to daily activities
- Minimal discomfort
High Success Rate
- Works best when done at the right age, before growth plates close.
- Reduces the risk of future arthritis and gait problems.
Safe and Repeatable
Plates can be adjusted or reapplied if necessary.
When is Guided Growth Surgery Recommended?
- Children aged 3–14 (before growth plates fuse)
- Significant bowing that affects walking or appearance
- Progressive deformity
- Conditions like Blount’s disease, metabolic bone disease, or post-traumatic deformities
Dr. Divya Ahuja’s Expertise in Guided Growth Surgery
Why Parents Trust Him
- Specialist in pediatric limb deformities and reconstructive orthopedics
- Over 15 years of surgical experience
- Focused on minimally invasive and child-friendly care
- Explains procedures in simple terms, guiding parents every step of the way
Patient-Centric Care
Dr. Ahuja combines precision surgical planning with a warm, approachable manner—helping families feel reassured at every stage.
Clinical Locations of Dr. Divya Ahuja
Our Clinical Locations
Tap a location to view timings, contact, and map.
Broadway Healthcare, Dadar East
Broadway Healthcare, Dadar East
Clinic Info
- 📍 Broadway Healthcare, Dadar East, Mumbai
- 🕒 Wednesdays · 10:00 AM – 12:00 NOON
- 📞 Appointments: +91 93213 17227
Sweet Clinics, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
Sweet Clinics, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
Clinic Info
- 📍 Sweet Clinics, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
- 🕒 Fridays · 10:00 AM – 12:00 NOON
- 📞 Appointments: +91 93213 17227
Heal Well Speciality Clinic, Thane West
Heal Well Speciality Clinic, Thane West
Clinic & OPD Info
- 📍 Heal Well Speciality Clinic, Thane West
- 🕒 Every Wednesday 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- 📞 Appointments: +91 81691 04438
Mangal Anand Hospital, Chembur Mumbai
Mangal Anand Hospital, Chembur Mumbai
Clinic & OPD Info
- 📍 Mangal Anand Hospital, Chembur Mumbai
- 🕒 Monday, Wednesday, Friday 03-07 PM, Thursday 06-07 PM, Free OPD Saturday 02-04 PM
- 📞 Appointments: +91 70212 18182
SRV Hospitals, Tilaknagar, Chembur
SRV Hospitals, Tilaknagar, Chembur
Clinic Info
- 📍 SRV Hospitals, Tilaknagar, Chembur
- 🕒 Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11 AM-12 PM
- 📞 Appointments: +91 84518 00800
Before-and-After Impact
Functional Benefits
- Improved walking and running
- Reduced risk of falls
- Better joint alignment for the future
Emotional Benefits
- Boost in self-confidence
- Freedom to play without worry
- Happier childhood experience
Conclusion: A Gentle Path Toward Straight Legs
Guided growth surgery is more than just a medical procedure—it’s a way to restore confidence, mobility, and a brighter future for children with bow legs. With Dr. Divya Ahuja’s expertise, families in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai have access to world-class, child-centered orthopedic care.
If your child has bow legs that don’t seem to be improving, don’t wait. Early consultation can make all the difference.
FAQs
Can bow legs correct themselves without surgery?
Mild bow legs in toddlers often straighten naturally by age 2–3. However, if the deformity worsens or doesn’t improve after age 3, medical evaluation is essential. Guided growth surgery is advised when natural correction isn’t happening.
What is the best age for guided growth surgery in children?
The ideal age is between 3 and 14 years, while growth plates are still open. The earlier the correction begins (once persistent bowing is confirmed), the better the results.
Is guided growth surgery safe for children?
Yes. It’s a minimally invasive procedure with a high success rate and very low complication risk. Children typically resume daily activities and even sports within weeks.
How long does a child need to stay in the hospital after guided growth surgery?
Most children are discharged within 24–48 hours. The procedure requires only a small incision, and kids usually walk the same or next day.
What happens if bow legs are left untreated?
If untreated, severe bow legs can cause abnormal walking patterns, knee pain, early arthritis, and joint damage in adulthood. Correcting them early with guided growth prevents these long-term problems.
How do I know if my child’s bow legs are normal or need treatment?
If your child is under 2 years old, bow legs can be normal. But if the bowing is severe, getting worse, or still present after age 3, it’s a red flag. An orthopedic specialist like Dr. Divya Ahuja can assess with X-rays and clinical examination.
Will guided growth surgery leave a scar?
The incision is very small—usually just a few centimeters near the knee. Over time, the scar fades and becomes barely noticeable. Most parents find it cosmetically acceptable compared to larger surgeries.
How much does guided growth surgery cost in India?
The cost can vary depending on the hospital, city, and whether one or both legs need correction. On average, it’s significantly more affordable than osteotomy and includes shorter hospital stays. For exact costs, families should consult Dr. Divya Ahuja’s clinic.
Can guided growth surgery be done on both legs at the same time?
Yes. In most cases of bow legs affecting both legs, surgeons can safely perform guided growth on both knees during the same procedure. This reduces recovery time and helps both legs correct simultaneously.
What follow-up care is needed after guided growth surgery?
Regular follow-ups every 3–6 months with X-rays are needed to track correction. Once the legs are straight, the small plate is removed. Follow-up care is simple and does not usually involve braces or casts.
