Ribs are a crucial part of our skeletal system, serving as a protective layer for our vital organs, including the heart and lungs. However, there has been a growing trend of people wanting to get their ribs removed or surgically altered for cosmetic reasons. The question is, can you really get your ribs removed? Let’s delve deeper into the topic and find out.
The History of Rib Removal
Believe it or not, the idea of rib removal dates back centuries. In the 19th century, it was known as the ‘Adam’s rib’ surgery and was performed mainly on women to create a more defined waistline. The trend resurfaced in the 1950s, and since then, several celebrities have been rumored to have undergone the procedure to achieve an hourglass figure.
However, it is essential to note that there is little evidence to support that rib removal was widespread in the past. More often than not, it was performed as part of other surgical procedures or to treat debilitating health conditions.
What Does Rib Removal Entail?
The standard surgical procedure for removing ribs involves general anesthesia, hospitalization, and an incision made in the side or back. The surgeon then separates the ribs from their attachment points, which can take anywhere from one to four hours depending on the extent of the procedure. Afterward, a dressing is placed over the incision to promote healing, and antibiotics and pain medication are prescribed to prevent infection and manage post-operative pain.
What About Non-Surgical Alternatives?
For those looking to alter their rib shape without going under the knife, there are non-surgical options available, including waist trainers and corsets. However, it is essential to note that these methods can be harmful to your health and can cause permanent damage. Extended use of waist trainers and corsets can lead to chest and rib pain, digestive issues, and breathing problems.
Why Do People Consider Rib Removal?
The primary motivation behind rib removal is to achieve a more defined waistline or an hourglass figure. People who feel insecure about their bodies or dissatisfied with their appearance may consider this as a solution.
It is also common for people who have undergone massive weight loss, such as bariatric surgery, to have excess skin and tissue around the abdomen that can hinder their physical and mental progress. In such cases, rib removal may be considered as an option to remove the extra tissue and improve their quality of life.
The Risks Involved
Like any surgical procedure, rib removal carries risks and potential complications. Some of the risks include excessive bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and anesthesia complications. More severe complications such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and accidental damage to internal organs can occur.
Furthermore, rib removal surgery can lead to permanent changes in your body’s function and shape. That’s because your ribs provide structure to your chest wall and anchor your back muscles. Removing them can lead to a shift in your internal organs and cause problems with breathing, digestion, core strength, and posture.
Is It Legal?
Rib removal surgery is legal in the United States and other countries. However, it is up to the discretion of individual surgeons to perform the procedure. Many reputable surgeons refuse to perform rib removal surgery due to the high risks involved and the potential impact on patients’ health and well-being.
What About Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons?
Although cosmetic plastic surgeons can perform rib removal surgery, most reputable ones refuse to do so because of the numerous risks and long-term impact of the procedure. They also have a code of ethics to adhere to that prohibits them from performing procedures that can potentially harm patients.
The Verdict
So, can you really get your ribs removed? The short answer is yes, but should you? The risks involved and the potential permanent impact on your body should be enough to deter anyone from considering rib removal surgery for cosmetic purposes. While it may appear to be a quick fix to achieve an aesthetically pleasing figure, the dangers far outweigh any potential benefits.
What Are the Alternatives?
If you’re looking to achieve a more defined waistline or an hourglass figure, there are several safe and effective alternatives available, such as healthy diet and exercise, body contouring treatments, or non-surgical fat reduction techniques. These options will give you sustainable, long-term results without the risks involved in rib removal surgery.
Conclusion
Rib removal surgery is a highly invasive and risky procedure that should only be considered as a last resort, in cases of medical necessity. For those looking to alter their rib shape for cosmetic reasons, there are numerous safe and effective alternatives available that do not carry the same risks or have long-term consequences.
FAQ
- Can you get ribs removed to make your waist smaller?
- Is rib removal surgery legal?
- What are the risks of rib removal surgery?
- What are the alternatives to rib removal surgery?
Yes, rib removal surgery is one way to make your waist smaller. However, the procedure carries significant risks, and many reputable surgeons refuse to perform it as a cosmetic procedure.
Yes, rib removal surgery is legal in the United States and other countries. However, individual surgeons may choose not to perform the procedure due to the potential risks and impact on patients’ health and well-being.
Some of the risks of rib removal surgery include excessive bleeding, infection, anesthesia complications, nerve damage, and accidental damage to internal organs. Long-term consequences include permanent changes in body function and shape, leading to problems with breathing, digestion, core strength, and posture.
There are many safe and effective alternatives to rib removal surgery, including healthy diet and exercise, body contouring treatments, and non-surgical fat reduction techniques.
References
1. Klinkenberg, A. (2019). Rib removal surgery – the dangers of taking vanity to the extreme. Retrieved June 28, 2021, from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/feb/25/rib-removal-surgery-vanity-extreme
2. Paterson, E. (2020). Rib removal surgery: everything you need to know. Retrieved June 28, 2021, from https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/a29535937/rib-removal-surgery/
3. Anderson, L. (2020). What you need to know about rib removal surgery. Retrieved June 28, 2021, from https://www.healthline.com/health/rib-removal-surgery