Missing rib - is it risky to have breast implants? (Photo)

Question

I had a surgery on my right breast 27 years ago and my third rib from the top was removed. So i am missing a rib right under my breast. I want to have breast implants now. Is this risky for me? Would implant cause any damage to my lungs?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear janserisen,
your missing rib should have no negative effect on breast implants. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

A single missing rib should not prevent you from having a breast augmentation. In the absence of rib you still have parietal plura and interosseus muscles as a barrier between the implant and the lung. These are robust structural elements of your chest wall, and will not allow the implant to enter the thoracic cavity. Seek out a board certified plastic surgeon, ask lots of questions, and move forward when you feel comfortable.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and profile implants. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs or told us your bra size. However, breast implants can be placed in front to the muscle, that way the muscle will in between your breast and lungs and will not allow the implant to compress your lungs.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Arthur Dean Jabs, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

You don't say why the rib was removed (cancer treatment?) or if other treatments occurred such as radiation. But, should the soft tissue above the area be normal you should have no issues with a breast implant. Your lungs are not at risk from an augmention.

Best of Luck,

Dr. J

Best of Luck,

Dr. J

Sean M. Bidic, MD · Answer

Hello. You should have no concerns about getting breast augmentation after a third rib removal. If the rib removal was performed to harvest cartilage, the operation is more central that where the implant will sit. If you do a sub glandular breast augmentation, you will have the pectorals muscle as another layer separating the implant and your lung space.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Your missing rib would not exclude you as a candidate from breast augmentation.  I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to discuss your options and the risks related to your medical history.  You can discuss implant placement, shape and size and how it would relate to your case.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your risks are low, as with any surgery, and the surgery will not involve ribs or your lungs.  Go for a consultation and discuss your concerns and options.

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