Costal reshaping is a surgical technique used torefine the waistline. The aim is to harmonize the silhouette and enhance the buttocks, lower back, hips, legs and, of course, the waist.

Having a slim waist creates an aesthetically pleasing and proportionate appearance, close to today's beauty ideal. Until recently, the main drawback of costal reshaping was the consequent scarring that the surgery engendered.

RibXcar is an ultrasound-guided, scar-free rib reshaping technique that is the perfect answer to this problem.

RibXcar: the new scar-free, incision-free rib reshaping technique

The RibXcar technique involves first assessing the area of rib remodelling using ultrasound. The technique was first performed in 2022 by three ultrasound-savvy plastic surgeons.

There are two surgical techniques for permanently refining the waistline: costal remodeling by rib removal (costectomy) and costal remodeling by rib fracture.

Fracture remodeling is the least risky option, as it preserves theintegrity of the rib cage. It is the simplest procedure. It offers superb aesthetic results when performed by an experienced surgeon.

RibXcar further enhances the reliability of the fracture technique, as rib remodeling is guided by ultrasound, significantly increasing patient safety. Ultrasound enables :

• Evaluate the costal remodeling area;
• Perfect control of bone remodeling during surgery.

 

Why choose costal remodeling by fracture rather than ablation?

The thoracic region protects thoracic organs such as the heart and lungs. The ribcage also supports the thoracic muscles and upper limbs.

This region is made up of vertebral, sternal and costal bony components. When perfectly articulated, these components enable the physiological functioning of the entire thoracic region.

To preserve this function, it is preferable to maintain the integrity of the rib cage. In fact, costal remodeling by fracture is far preferable to costal remodeling by ablation, as it is less invasive.

In addition, recovery time is significantly shorter after fracture remodeling. Scar-free entry points are also much more discreet, especially when the surgeon uses the innovative RibXcar technique.

Surgical procedure

Before the operation :

The choice of approach is one of the most important aspects. It is essential to identify the anatomical landmarks, i.e. the "structure of the patient's body". The patient's position is fundamental when identifying anatomical landmarks.

Clear anatomical landmarks help to ensure a successful procedure. Good anatomical identification facilitates the procedure and considerably reduces the risk of complications.

Intervention:

For scarless costal reshaping surgery, the surgeon uses a Piezotome ®.

This ultrasonic device features inserts capable of producing 30,000 vibrations per second. These vibrations weaken the bone without visible scarring or incision, while preserving soft tissue (vessels, nerves, tendons, muscles) and nearby cartilage.

Bone remodeling is finer and more precise than with a surgical saw or shears. The impact on the body and rib cage is also reduced.

The patient is placed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon then makes a puncture on each side of the rib cage, at the level of the lower ribs. The Piezotome ® is introduced through these puncture points. The surgeon then proceeds to weaken the ribs. The final reshaping of the rib is achieved by applying pulsed vibrations generated by the device.

The ribs concerned run from the tenth to the twelfth rib, following an oblique line, to achieve a harmonious transition and avoid a choppy effect that could distort and create asymmetry in the hips.

Ultrasound plays a key role in visualizing and performing rib modifications. It guides the surgeon in remodeling the rib cage.

Long-term results are achieved by maintaining a compression force that stabilizes the new rib angulation. To this end, patients wear an elastic abdominal belt or corset for at least 2 to 3 months after surgery.

Good to know:

The human body has 12 pairs of ribs. Ribs 1 to 7 are considered true ribs, as they are directly connected to the sternum by cartilage.

Ribs 8, 9 and 10 are considered false ribs, as they are not directly connected to the sternum.

Ribs 11 and 12 are called floating ribs, because they have no connection with the sternum and are shorter and less curved than the preceding ribs.

What are the possible complications of waist slimming surgery?

Expected complications include:

• Skin burns;
• Asymmetries and deformities;
• Risk of infection;
• Fracture consolidation problems.

What results can I expect from ultrasound rib reshaping?

Study results show that the new RibXcar cosmetic surgery technique effectively reduces waist diameter and improves the overall aesthetic appearance of the body as early as three months post-operatively.

Post-operative satisfaction showed a high and significant level of acceptance: surgery does indeed enable definitive waist refinement.

What's more, this procedure can enhance a flat tummy, abdominal muscles and rounded hips and buttocks, especially if the patient maintains a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity.

The results of the satisfaction survey concerning the overall aesthetic result show that the final result is satisfactory for 100% of patients operated on.

Want to learn more? Join our Facebook group on scarless rib reshaping today!