The prognosis of rickets is generally positive if the necessary changes are made to the diet and the vitamin D deficiency is remedied. Once the required supplementation is made, bone defects and deformities can heal in a matter of a few months. In severe cases, there may be surgery needed to remedy long-standing symptoms such as bowlegs. However, if rickets is not treated during the growth stage (in children), there is a possibility of permanent deformities in the bones and a short stature. Other complications that may arise in case rickets is left untreated include: