Abstract
BACKGROUND: Rib cage remodeling has shown promising aesthetic results as a new technique for body contouring, and yet risks and complications associated with the procedure have not been well established. The aim of the authors' study was to assess safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction rate associated with a new surgical technique for waistline definition. METHODS: The authors looked into their records for patients who underwent waist narrowing through a new rib remodeling procedure with osteosynthesis of ribs XI and XII from October of 2022 to June of 2023. Follow-up was carried out at 1 and 3 months after surgery. Outcomes were evaluated based on waist and hip measurements, body image, pain, and a patient satisfaction survey. RESULTS: A total of 27 consecutive patients were included in the analysis. The authors' technique resulted in a significant reduction in waist circumference, as evidenced by a decrease of 12.1 cm and 13.0 cm at the first and third months, respectively ( P < 0.005). A reduction of hip circumference of 6.2 cm and 8.7 cm at the first and third months, respectively, was also reported. A high patient satisfaction rate was reported. Postoperative complications included only 1 case of wound dehiscence and 1 case of mild pain. Pain levels were also reduced, with a mean pain score of 2.4 at week 1 and 0.26 at month 1. CONCLUSIONS: Rib osteotomy with osteosynthesis emerges as an innovative, safe, and reliable approach for waist narrowing. The authors' results suggest that this technique can be applied to a wide variety of patients, and it might entail significant advantages compared with other techniques. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.