Table 2  Additional quotes organized by theme from participants

Reluctance to accept alternative treatment

 A 20-year-old female, 18m after limb lengthening surgery.

‘’this might sound crazy, but I will rather die than to live with one leg or some plastic attached to my body’’. I know life is important; I just can’t.

 A 47-year-old female, 34mths after secondary surgery.

“This can happen to anyone, it’s terrible experience; I prefer to leave the world the way I came in” hmm! I’m happy have my imperfect leg back.”

 A 34-year-old male, 29m after replantation procedure.

“I know my family would support and love me with or without my leg, but I don’t think I can face life with anything that’s not my own body part; I just wanted my leg fixed even if it won’t be perfect.”

 A 49-year-old male, 20m after limb lengthening surgery.

“The worst part of all this when you know there a chance to get your life back; it can’t be perfect, but at least I won’t feel so terrible about myself.”

Sense of purpose and social engagement

 A 38-year-old male, 27m after primary surgery.

“Sometimes you feel horrible about how your body has changed…but I am still useful and able to do what I love.”

Life must go on because you have a family and work to keep “you live everyday…. you know, it makes you think less about your appearance.”

 A 58-year-old male, 24m after limb lengthening surgery.

“Hmmm! I’ve been leading evening dance group and I loved it- I can’t assume that role anymore, but I can still enjoy dancing with my team.”