Can Rib Removal be Done On Trans Women?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Dr. Epply mentioned he removes the outer third of the ribs. Is there a way to request a more aggressive resection? Half or most of the ribs?  Has he done this on trans patients?”

A: 2/3s of the patients that have rib removals are transfemales in my experience.

There is no aesthetic benefit to taking more rib length and the risks of complications increases. The only part of the rib that affects the sides of the waistline and torso is what lies lateral or beyond the outer border of the erecvtor spinae muscle.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon