Woman Undergoes Rib Reshaping Surgery for Hourglass Figure

A 25-year-old woman from New York has shared her journey of undergoing rib reshaping surgery, known as RibXcar, to achieve her desired hourglass figure. This minimally invasive procedure involves altering the shape of the ribs to enhance waistline definition without removing them entirely. As interest in this relatively new technique grows, it raises questions about the implications for body image and safety in cosmetic surgery.

The patient, identified as Natalie Y, has been open about her motivations for the procedure. Struggling with body image issues, she sought out surgical options after extensive research and consultations with her employer, Dr. Thomas Sterry, a board-certified plastic surgeon. “I felt very unhappy with my flanks and abdomen,” Natalie explained in an interview with The Cut. “Despite regular workouts, I was unable to achieve the shape I wanted.”

According to Natalie, Dr. Sterry suggested that traditional liposuction would not yield the desired hourglass shape. Instead, he recommended rib reshaping to contour her flared ribs inward. Natalie, who had previously received filler and Botox treatments from Dr. Sterry, felt confident proceeding with the surgery, despite it being his first such case in New York.

The cost of the RibXcar surgery begins at $9,900 (£7,459), with additional liposuction potentially raising the total to $16,000 (£12,057). Patients typically wear a supportive corset for up to three months post-surgery to control waist size, with some reporting a reduction of up to five inches during this period.

While experts classify RibXcar as a low-risk procedure, it is not without potential complications. Risks include chronic pain, unsightly scarring, and an unnatural appearance, as well as the loss of the protective function provided by the ribs. The Daily Mirror has launched a campaign advocating for stricter regulations on cosmetic surgery in the UK, highlighting the dangers of “medical tourism” and calling for government support to improve patient safety.

After going through the surgery, Natalie experienced moments of doubt about her healing process and results. “I felt like my results weren’t as noticeable as I wanted them to be,” she recalled. However, after waiting for the swelling to subside, she began to see significant changes. Now, she claims to have lost six inches from her waist and describes herself as feeling like “a new person” with newfound confidence.

As the popularity of procedures like RibXcar increases, it is essential for prospective patients to conduct thorough research and consult certified professionals. Natalie’s experience underscores the complex interplay between body image, self-esteem, and the evolving landscape of cosmetic surgery.