Is oblique suturing possible? Had my lower ribs removed like 2 years ago. (photos)

Question

I’ve had my lower ribs removed like 2 years ago, but I still want a smaller waist. My BMI is less than 18% and I don’t have any loose skin or muscle. Is it possible to tighten the obliques to achieve a smaller waist? My waist is current 25”, but I would rather be 22” or 23”.

S. Alexander Earle, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for sharing your photos. You already have a very slender frame and a beautifully defined waist, so I can understand why you're looking for that last bit of refinement.

In your case, I would not recommend oblique suturing. The oblique muscles are important for core function, breathing, and stability, and surgically tightening them isn't a predictable or well-established way to safely reduce the waist.

Since you've already had your lower ribs removed, you've likely achieved much of the skeletal narrowing that procedure can provide. From here, your waist shape is influenced more by your natural anatomy, your upper rib cage, pelvis, muscle structure, and soft tissues.

A reduction from a 25-inch waist to 22-23 inches may or may not be anatomically achievable, and that's something that would require an in-person evaluation and imaging before anyone could responsibly answer. I always encourage patients to prioritize what's both beautiful and safe, rather than chasing a specific measurement.

Is oblique suturing possible? Had my lower ribs removed like 2 years ago. (photos)

Answers (1)

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