The surgical procedure commonly referred to as rib removal is medically known as Costal Cartilage Excision or Rib Resection. This operation involves removing a section of rib or rib cartilage. It is a complex procedure requiring specialized skill, often performed by a thoracic or plastic surgeon, and is considered a major intervention affecting the skeletal structure.
Indications for Rib Resection Surgery
Rib resection is performed for two primary reasons: medically necessary treatment or elective cosmetic purposes. Medically necessary resection is performed to alleviate pain or correct structural issues impacting health. This includes removing tumors, correcting congenital deformities, or treating severe trauma to the ribcage.
Resection of the first rib is a common treatment for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which involves the compression of nerves or blood vessels. Another medical reason is the excision of costal cartilage to treat Slipping Rib Syndrome, a condition causing chronic chest or upper abdominal pain. When medically indicated, the surgery is often covered by health insurance as a required treatment for a diagnosed condition.
In contrast, elective cosmetic rib resection is sought by individuals desiring a significantly narrowed waistline for body contouring. This procedure typically targets the lower, less protective floating ribs (ribs 10, 11, and 12), which do not connect directly to the sternum. The goal is to physically reduce the bony constraint of the ribcage to achieve a permanent reduction in waist circumference. Since this is for aesthetic enhancement, it is almost universally classified as elective surgery and is not covered by insurance providers.
Factors Determining the Total Cost
For the elective, cosmetic procedure, the total cost typically ranges widely, falling between $7,000 and $25,000 or more in the United States. This price is highly dependent on several distinct financial components.
Surgeon’s Fee
The surgeon’s fee represents the largest and most variable portion of the total expense. This fee reflects the plastic surgeon’s experience, reputation, and specialized training required for this precise and uncommon procedure.
Facility and Anesthesia Costs
The facility fee covers the use of the operating room, surgical equipment, and necessary medical supplies. This charge varies depending on whether the surgery is performed in an accredited outpatient surgical center or a hospital setting. Anesthesia costs are also a major factor, calculated based on the expertise of the anesthesiologist and the total duration of the operation.
Pre- and Post-Operative Expenses
The final price also incorporates pre-operative testing, such as blood work and imaging studies, required to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate. Post-operative care includes follow-up visits, prescription medications for pain management, and specialized compression garments or corsets. Combining the surgery with other body contouring procedures, such as a tummy tuck, will increase the overall cost.
What the Procedure Involves and Recovery Timeline
Rib resection surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions, often in the back or flank area, to access the targeted lower ribs or costal cartilage. Using specialized surgical tools, a segment of the rib or cartilage is carefully removed or modified, while taking precautions to avoid damage to surrounding nerves and internal structures.
The initial recovery phase typically begins with a hospital stay lasting one to three days. During this time, patients are monitored for complications and receive initial pain management. Pain is common immediately following the procedure and is managed with prescribed medication. Once discharged, patients must limit physical activity to allow the surgical site to heal.
Patients are restricted from heavy lifting for a period of four to six weeks. Full recovery and the return to strenuous activities can take several months, as the body requires time for complete internal healing and the reduction of residual swelling. For cosmetic procedures, a specialized post-operative garment or corset is often worn for several weeks to help maintain the new waist contour.