How Can My Flared Rib be Fixed?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am a 3o year old male with a flared lower left rib. I would be interested in getting it repositioned, or removed if necessary. It is not affecting my quality of life; it is purely cosmetic. Would you be available for a virtual consultation to discuss treatment options/financing/recovery times? Thank you very much for your time.

A:You have a flared or winged right subcostal rib margin. This is probably rib #9 by looking at this picture but palpation would confirm that more accurately. A 3D CT scan would absolutely provide the best visualization and tell us if this is a just a single rib involvement. The surgical debate is between shaving/removal vs repositioning, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Removal = assured permanent result, more incisional length, ‘longer recovery’ vs Repositioning = need for postoperative banding, risk of relapse, minimal incisions, quicker recovery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon