Rib Removal

Q: Dr. Eppley, What is the approximate cost for rib removal without fat grafting?

This is a rare procedure, and I imagine a fairly traumatic one, considering how the muscle tissue clings to the bone of a BBQ pork rib. What are the potential consequences for mobility and activity? What is the aftercare protocol? Can you connect me to other patients who have worked with you who would be willing to talk about their experiences?

Where will the scars be located, and how large will they be?

Would deliberately fracturing the bones and wearing a corset as soft cast while they heal be a realistic alternative to resection?

A: In answer to your rib removal surgery questions:

1) My assistant Camille will pass along the cost of the surgery to you later today.

2) Rib removal surgery, while providing as expected some after surgery discomfort, has not had any morbidity othethan the scar that I have seen. Patients recovery quicker than one would expect.

3) The surgery is done through oblique 5 cms long back incisions.

4) Rib resection offers a more effective waistline reduction with a quicker recovery than rib fracturing. Such rib fractures would not go on to heal and would be a source of chronic pain.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana