Rib Removal Surgery

Q: Dr. Eppley, I would like to find out more about the rib removal surgery. I have been considering doing this for some time now. I was wondering what the approximate cost for this surgery is. Could you also tell me more about the time needed for recovery? What is a general healing period after the surgery before going back to work. I would be flying in from abroad and I would also like to find out when it would be safe to travel again after the surgery. Also, is it recommended to do a tummy tuck with the procedure or is it usually done without? I am a pretty slim build.

A: Thank you for your inquiry. In answer to our rib removal surgery questions for horizontal waistline reduction:

1) My assistant Camille will pass along the approximate cost of the surgery to you tomorrow.

2) Recovery depends on what you are looking to recover to. For most normal activities 10 to 14 days, for strenous activities up to three weeks after the procedure.

3) Most patients travel home within 2 to 3 days after the procedure which is somewhat affected by whether they are traveling alone or not.

4) A tummy tuck has nothing to do with rib removal surgery or horizontal waistline reduction. In some cases a tummy tuck can be done for subcostal rib removal but that is for the treatment of a completely different body contouring problem that involves the anterior ribcage.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana