Can The Fixation Hardware Used In Clavicle Reduction Not Be Seen or Felt?

Dr. Eppley, Shoulder width reduction: is there a way for the hardware used to not be so palpable and obvious? On a woman, clavicle is delicate and dainty; the bulkiness of the hardware make that surgery seem not so appealing.

A:The fixation hardware used for any form of clavicle reshaping surgery, albeit lengthening or reduction, has to be thick enough to support a heavy load bearing bone with arm motion so that it can properly heal. When it comes to a highly loaded bone, healing supersedes aesthetics. Yes the visibility of the hardware particularly in thin patients is very likely. Although not common patients that are so affected may elect to remove the hardware 9 to 12 months after the original surgery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon