Can I Have Rib Removal Surgery If I Come By Myself?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am a 27 year old trans woman and I am very interested in having rib removal surgery for waistline narrowing. I have a few questions:

1. How long must patients stay in town before flying home? 

2. Is it possible for me to have this procedure on my own without a support person? Does the clinic offer any nurses for aftercare? If not, can you recommend any locally? 

Thank you so much for your help.

A: Thank you for your inquiry in regards to rib removal surgery. In answer to your logistical questions:

1) Most rib removal patients return home 3 to 5 days after the surgery.

2) It is very common that patients come by themselves for this type of body contouring surgery. We have a nursing service that gets you back to the hotel the morning after surgery as well as can provide some intermittent support for a few days after the surgery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon