Theresia Fischer, a social media influencer and former contestant on Germany’s version of Celebrity Big Brother, made headlines when she chose to undergo an unconventional surgical procedure aimed at lengthening her legs by 5.5 inches. At the time of the surgery, Fischer stood at five feet six inches tall and was just 24 years old. Despite initially being content with the results, her perspective on the procedure has since shifted dramatically, and she now expresses significant regret.
Leg lengthening surgery is a highly intricate medical procedure designed to extend the length of the leg bones. It is typically performed to address medical conditions where the legs are uneven or to correct bone growth abnormalities. According to information from the Cleveland Clinic, the process involves a complex technique where the bone is gradually elongated, allowing new bone tissue to develop and fill the gap.
However, this type of surgery carries notable risks and complications. Orthopedic expert Professor Hamish Simpson, affiliated with the British Orthopaedic Association, highlighted that although surgical advancements have improved the safety of such procedures over the years, the risks remain substantial. He explained that the complexity arises because not only does bone growth need to be encouraged, but additional tissue structures such as muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and skin must also adapt and expand accordingly. The complication rate, despite modern techniques, remains high.
Fischer underwent the surgery by having telescopic rods surgically implanted into her shin bones. These rods were gradually extended, progressively lengthening her legs. This invasive process increased her height from 5 feet 6 inches to over 6 feet tall. While she initially viewed the transformation positively, her feelings have since changed, particularly due to the influence of a former partner.
During an interview in August 2023 with MDR Jump, Fischer, now 31, revealed that her then-boyfriend had actively pressured her into considering the drastic procedure. Recalling his words, she claimed he repeatedly insisted, “Theresia, you know I prefer tall women. You could gain up to 14 centimeters more. I would really like that.” She also disclosed how the emotional manipulation extended beyond mere suggestions, as he reportedly made her feel dependent, saying, “You can’t do anything without me. You need me.” Such repeated statements, Fischer noted, eroded her self-confidence and led her to believe she wasn’t enough without the change.
Although she was previously content with her appearance, Fischer now feels a profound sense of embarrassment regarding the extreme transformation she underwent. Speaking candidly, she admitted, “I am ashamed because I consented to an operation I should never have agreed to. I had always felt comfortable in my own skin before.”
The emotional toll is just one aspect of the consequences Fischer has faced. Physically, the surgery has left her dealing with significant health complications. She developed a painful condition known as periosteum inflammation, which occurs when the membrane surrounding the bones becomes irritated and inflamed. This health setback forced her to step away from participating in the German reality competition Battle of the Reality Stars, as physical challenges on the show became increasingly difficult.
Fischer elaborated on how her physical capabilities have been compromised, especially when required to move quickly or engage in physical tasks. “Whenever I had to run or move faster, it felt unnatural. Running with metal rods in your legs just feels strange,” she explained.
Further complicating her recovery, Fischer was informed that the fibula bone in one of her legs had failed to grow as intended, causing additional discomfort and mobility issues. Now, the influencer expresses a strong desire to have the metal support rods surgically removed, as they continue to impact her daily life.