What is the ruling on a short girl undergoing a height-lengthening operation, and is it permissible to use hormones to increase the height of boys during their growth phase if their projected height is short?
Cosmetic surgeries are of two types: The first, for seeking beauty and increasing attractiveness, is impermissible because it involves altering Allah’s creation. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, cursed those who alter Allah’s creation. As for the second type, which is to remove harm or pain, it is permissible according to Islamic law, such as what Arfajah ibn Sad, may Allah be pleased with him, did when the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, commanded him to get a nose made of gold. Based on this, it is not permissible for a girl to undergo surgery to increase her height, as there is no harm involved. As for the use of hormones to increase or decrease height or weight, there is no religious impediment to it as long as it does not involve anything forbidden or harmful. Otherwise, it is not permissible to use them, due to the Prophet's saying, peace and blessings be upon him, "There shall be no harm or reciprocating harm."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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