>It seems his childhood doctor missed something. It's always worth getting second opinions.
The doctor who performed Ilizarov surgeries, was the 4th or 5th Orthopedic doctor my parents consulted for me. He trained directly under Ilizarov himself & my treatment was conducted in 'the best' hospital in India which gets patients around the world where he was the chief Orthopedic.
Considering the above, my parents were satisfied to hear his diagnosis that I'm a normal kid & would grow taller than my dad (5.3") [Something which any parent would like to hear].
Now, looking back; he might have lied; It wouldn't be a surprise as he's definitely corrupt - He demanded ~ 1500 USD as un-accounted money the day before surgery (at both times) while working in the most expensive hospital in India at that time.
---- I'm glad your friend didn't loose his eye, as you said second opinions are recommended. I did consult 4 orthopedics (of which 3 Spine surgeons) before my spine surgery.