Rib removal is used to create an hourglass figure as an adjunctive procedure to abdominoplasty which elevates, redrapes and tightens the abdomen and waist. The floating ribs (numbers 11 and 12) do not come all the way around to meet the breast bone in the front. Number 12 is only on the back and sides while 11 does come to the front of the body. Most of ribs 11 and 12 and occasionally 10 are removed to give patients a more feminine hourglass figure via an abdominoplasty incision. This operation should not be treated lightly. It is not reversible and should be done in the hospital with an overnight stay. The patient has to be a candidate for an abdominoplasty before rib removal is performed. The ribs do not grow back.

This patient has had a previous abdominoplasty with the outer edges of the lower abdominal incision placed to low and an unsightly round scar around the belly button. Revision involved raising the outer ends of the lower scar to allow the scar to lie within the boundaries of bikini skin tan lines and make it more easily hidden under clothing. Ribs 10, 11 and 12 were removed on the front and sides of the chest at the time of surgery leaving the back portion of the ribs intact for protection against trauma to internal organs. Although the hourglass shape after surgery is apparent rib removal in and of itself will not decrease one's waist size or circumference. That is accomplished by the abdominoplasty portion of the operation.

Breast surgery was performed elsewhere by another surgeon.

Rib removal surgery can enhance your appearance and your self confidence. Realistic expectations are important to be happy with any surgery. As each patient is an individual, different results can be expected in each patient.