When Will Torso Narrowing Surgery Be Available?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Is there an estimate for when the torso narrowing surgery (more than just ribs 10-12) will be available? I’m pretty interested in the idea.

A:I am not exactly sure what you mean by ‘when will this surgery be available’. Currently I perform 10 rib surgery which consists of shortening osteotomies of ribs 8 and 9 with  ubtotal removal of ribs 10 to 12 all in the same surgery in properly selected patients. Based on what I know currently I do not envision benefits to be achieved by rib modifications above rib 8.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Plastic Surgeon