Rib removal is possible, a topic often associated with extreme body modification. While it may seem unusual, circumstances, both medical and, less commonly, cosmetic, can lead to this procedure. Understanding the reasons and potential consequences provides clarity.
The Role of Ribs in the Body
The human rib cage forms a protective bony framework around the chest, consisting of 12 pairs of ribs. These curved bones attach to the thoracic vertebrae in the back and mostly connect to the sternum (breastbone) in the front via cartilage. The main function of the rib cage is to safeguard organs like the heart and lungs from trauma.
Ribs also play an important role in breathing. During inhalation, the rib cage expands, allowing the lungs to fill with air. The lowest two pairs, the 11th and 12th, are called “floating ribs” because they are shorter and do not directly connect to the sternum or other rib cartilage.
Medical Reasons for Rib Removal
Rib removal, or costectomy, is a medically appropriate procedure for various health conditions. One reason involves severe chest trauma, such as rib fractures that do not heal properly or cause persistent pain. Removing a portion of a damaged rib can alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.
Tumors, particularly those from rib bone or cartilage like chondrosarcoma, require rib removal to excise cancerous growth. Some chronic pain syndromes, such as slipping rib syndrome where a lower rib’s cartilage moves abnormally causing pain, can also be treated by surgically removing the affected rib or its cartilage. In complex thoracic surgeries, a rib or part of a rib might be removed to provide surgeons better access to organs like the lungs or heart.
Cosmetic Rib Removal
Cosmetic rib removal, primarily for waist reduction, is an unusual and controversial practice within mainstream medicine. This procedure targets the lower “floating” ribs, the 11th and 12th pairs, aiming for a smaller waist circumference and a more exaggerated “hourglass” figure.
Despite its technical possibility, few qualified plastic surgeons perform this procedure due to significant risks and ethical considerations. The medical community discourages it because it sacrifices the natural protection these ribs offer to organs like the kidneys. While popular culture and urban legends exaggerate its prevalence, actual instances are rare, with most reputable medical associations not recognizing it as a standard cosmetic offering.
Surgical Considerations and Potential Outcomes
Rib removal, whether for medical or, rarely, cosmetic reasons, is a complex surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision over the targeted rib(s) to access and remove the bone. After removal, the incision is closed, and patients can expect a recovery period involving pain management and tissue healing.
Potential outcomes include significant risks. Patients may experience acute and chronic pain, nerve damage (numbness or altered sensation), and a heightened risk of infection at the surgical site. A pneumothorax (collapsed lung) is a potential complication due to the lungs’ proximity. Removing ribs permanently compromises their natural protection for internal organs, increasing vulnerability to injury. The irreversible nature of the procedure means that once a rib is removed, it cannot be replaced.