Shahab Mahboubian, DO

The Height Lengthening Institute in Burbank offers general orthopedics, treats leg deformities including bowlegs and knock-knees, and performs height-lengthening surgery for those who feel self-conscious about their height. This treatment increases the length of the long bones of the leg—adding up to 6 inches of overall height.      Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Shahab Mahboubian started the practice 12 years ago. He completed training in limb lengthening and deformity correction surgery at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. 

Tell us about your services.

We cater to all orthopedic injuries, including sports, personal and occupational injuries. Our services include cosmetic height lengthening, injuries in adults and children, joint replacement surgery, hand injuries, neck and back pain issues, foot and ankle problems, and lower extremity deformities. Height-lengthening surgery has become a viral sensation recently since there are many people out there who want to be taller for one reason or another. The most common reason, however, is that those who are shorter than the average height simply want to be treated as equals among their peers. 

Do you have a strong social media presence?

In the past year, we have been blowing up on TikTok and Instagram, and we have had many videos about height lengthening go viral. People are fascinated with the procedure and the fact that they can permanently increase their height. 

Why did you choose to work in this area of medicine?

Working on the human body and helping those with musculoskeletal injuries has been a passion of mine since I was very young.  Learning about making people taller and correcting their deformities came toward the end of my orthopedic residency, and I found it fascinating. I was determined that this specialty would truly fulfill my desire to help those in need. We not only make people taller or help them walk normally, but we increase our patients’ confidence.

What makes you the best in your field?

I have been fortunate to learn from some of the best surgeons in the country, and I keep myself updated on all the latest techniques in orthopedic surgery. Using minimally invasive procedures with my drive for perfection and being very meticulous during surgeries sets me apart from other surgeons.  

What are the most popular therapies and services you offer?

Some of the most popular treatments that we offer include platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell injections. These injections work to repair the underlying condition rather than simply covering up the pain. PRP generally works to eliminate inflammation, while stem cell injections help heal damaged tissues. 

What’s the fascination with being taller?

Approximately 60% of CEOs in the top companies in America are 6 feet and taller.  People in general love tall men and express that affection by promoting them to positions of responsibility. Men who are taller have higher salaries, more confidence and enjoy better relationships. It’s no wonder that we get many inquiries about height lengthening. 

What can patients expect from their initial visit?

We provide our patients with adequate time and real-life illustrations so they can properly understand the severity of their condition. Usually a conservative care approach is initiated for the injury or condition before deciding on the need for surgery— including physical therapy, medications and different types of injections, such as PRP and cortisone shots. Most patients have a fear of surgery, and we understand that it should be left as a last option. We also provide select CBD products for our patients who do not like to take medication.

How does the ambience of your office help make your patients more comfortable?

Our practice is located across the street from one of the top hospitals in California: Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center. We moved into this new office about a year ago to have a more updated facility and a closer location to the hospital. 

Everyone loves the new and modern look of our office, which includes an X-ray machine, casting room and treatment rooms. We put our patients at ease, and they know we treat everyone with the respect and professionalism that is expected from a top orthopedic practice. 

Any wise words you’d like to share?

If you sustain a minor injury, make sure to rest and ice it down for a couple of days to allow the swelling to go down. Once the swelling has gone down, if you are still in pain, come in for an evaluation. If you decide to “work it out” or ignore it, your injury can become worse and lead to further and longer treatments, possibly including surgery. We always try to treat minor problems with conservative care, such as physical therapy and proper exercises. If your symptoms do not improve, then we will discuss the possibility of surgery.