How much lengthening can you get with a V-Y plasty?

• A. 10%
• B. 20%
• C. 30%
• D. 40%

Answer: (B)

The main idea is how much length you can gain from a V-Y plasty in soft tissue release. In this procedure, a V-shaped incision is advanced so the tissue closes in a Y configuration, effectively lengthening the directed segment. The amount of length gained is constrained by tissue availability and blood supply, so a single V-Y plasty typically provides about 20% lengthening of the involved segment.

That’s why 20% is the best answer: it reflects the standard, reliable gain from a straightforward V-Y conversion. Rates of 30% or more would require much larger or multiple flap designs with greater risk of tension or vascular compromise, and 10% would be on the low side for a typical single-plasty release.