Like any surgical procedure, rib remodeling carries risks. A board-certified plastic surgeon should review these with you thoroughly during your consultation.
Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
The most serious risk is pneumothorax, or a punctured lung. A peer-reviewed meta-analysis reported this complication in approximately 1.9% of rib remodeling cases.
While relatively uncommon, it is a serious complication that requires prompt medical treatment.
Nerve injury and chronic pain
The intercostal nerves, which run beneath each rib, can be irritated or damaged during surgery. This may cause:
- chronic pain
- numbness
- tingling sensations
These complications are generally reported less frequently in rib remodeling than in rib removal, because the ribs remain intact and only the floating ribs are addressed.
Infection or asymmetry
Standard surgical risks apply, including:
- infection
- hematoma (blood pooling)
- seroma (fluid accumulation)
- contour asymmetry
- scarring
Because rib remodeling uses very small incisions, visible scarring is usually minimal to none.
Rib relapse
Because the ribs are repositioned rather than removed, they may gradually shift back toward their original position during healing. This is known as rib relapse.
Consistent corset wear after surgery is the primary way surgeons reduce this risk.
Piezotome skin burns
Thermal burns from the piezotome instrument have been reported in medical literature at a rate of approximately 6.7%. You can help lower your risk by choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon.
Trouble healing
In some cases, the partially fractured rib may fail to heal properly in its new position (a condition called non-union). This may lead to ongoing discomfort and could require additional treatment.
