A 16-year-old boy in China spends about 16,700 yuan (roughly US $2,350) over six months for a body lengthening treatment. He grows from 165 cm to 166.4 cm. And guess what? Just two weeks after finishing, he’s back to 165 cm.

Huang underwent stretching sessions from February to August. He visited the clinic every one or two weeks and used special devices aimed at activating his knees and lengthening his legs. The treatment seemed to work but only till the sessions were on. As soon as the sessions stopped, his height immediately reverted.

Huang’s father complained to the clinic, and staff reportedly admitted the teen was likely too old to be corrected. They offered him a full refund.

What Really Happened?

Huang followed a regular stretching routine from February to August through a private institution. The goal was to lengthen his legs as he wanted a permanent increase in height. After six months, they added 1.4 cm. He was happy with the result

But two weeks after stopping the therapy, his height dropped back to the original measurement of 165 cm.

That sudden reversal surprised the family. Medical professionals reminded the public that human bodies aren’t elastic like noodles. One endocrinologist even said that height changes of half a centimetre from morning to evening are normal due to spinal compression, but nothing more.

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Why Did This Happen?

The therapy’s logic was simple. Apply repeated stretching to stimulate the bone or cartilage substructure to grow. But in teenagers past a certain age, bones become less flexible. Once treatment stops, muscles tighten, compressed tissues rebound and the final result disappears.

Experts say that height is mainly determined by genetics. Balanced nutrition and physical activity are the only safe ways to encourage natural growth.

Bigger Warnings For Children

1. Beware Of Quick Fixes

Procedures promising easy results often don’t deliver. It is not just about the money; you are risking your body.

2. Safety Risks of Body-Lengthening

These shortcuts can cost a lot. Serious complications like infections, bone problems, blood clots, or permanent disability have been reported in other cases.

3. Rights to Proper Information

Huang’s father complained that the clinic should have been clearer that the outcome was doubtful and the teen might be too old for meaningful change. Full disclosure is essential before any medical procedure.

How Children and Parents Can Make Safe Choices

Do Your Research

Before even considering a cosmetic procedure, do thorough research about it. Look for clinical studies and reviews. Do not rely on flashy marketing.

Always ask for written consent forms and talk to a licensed health provider.

Huang’s brief height gain and quick drop back to the original measurement are a cautionary tale. It shows how unscientific treatments can leave people disappointed and emotionally shaken.

Let’s remember, the value of a person isn’t measured in centimetres. It is measured by your character. Height may change, but who you are is already enough.