How Long Does it Take to Recover From Rib Remodeling?
Posted January 07, 2025 in Body Procedures
For some people, achieving a defined waist is something that can seem downright unachievable, no matter how much they work at it. Hours in the gym, a regimented diet plan, and constricting shapewear can only do so much, especially if you’re just not built to have an hourglass figure. Genetics, age, and hormones can all play a part in the shape of your waist, so you may need an assist from cosmetic surgery in order to realize your goals.
H-Curve™ rib remodeling offers a way to dramatically trim your waistline by reshaping and repositioning your lower ribs to help cinch your waist. In this blog, we discuss what to expect from your recovery from rib remodeling, including how long it takes to get back to your regular activities.
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The Skinny on Rib Remodeling
A slender waist has been a beauty ideal for hundreds of years, with corsets being used to slim and shape women’s (and men’s) waists since the 1500s. By the 18th century, the design of a corset had changed, focusing on making the waist appear smaller in relation to the hips. This was achieved by forcing the floating ribs (the two lower ribs on each side of the ribcage) downward to narrow the waist.
Rib remodeling works in a similar way. However, instead of pushing the lower ribs downward temporarily, Dr. Hadeed creates medical-grade fractures in those ribs. As the fractures heal, you wear a corset that is progressively tightened during the first ten days after surgery, gradually cinching in your waist. Once the fractures have healed completely, your waist will be noticeably smaller and more defined.
How Long Does Rib Remodeling Recovery Take?
Healing after H-Curve™ rib remodeling takes about three months. As mentioned above, immediately after your surgery, you are placed in a corset that you will wear for ten days, slowly tightening it a bit more each day according to Dr. Hadeed’s instructions. After the initial healing period, you will keep the corset at a set point and continue to wear it for an additional three weeks. After your first month of recovery, you will wear a different corset for the final two months of the healing process.
You should be able to return to work a week or so after your rib remodeling surgery and resume light activities around the house. After six weeks, you can begin light exercise and return to more strenuous exercises and activities without restrictions around three months post-surgery.
Factors That Can Influence Your Rib Remodeling Recovery Time
While healing after rib remodeling surgery typically takes about three months, several factors can influence your recovery timeline, including:
Additional Cosmetic Procedures
If you’re looking for comprehensive body contouring, Dr. Hadeed may recommend additional cosmetic procedures to further define your curves. Tummy tuck surgery, liposuction, and TriDef® liposculpting are just two options that can enhance your rib remodeling results. However, combining procedures may also add to your overall recovery time.
Your Overall Health
Prior to your rib remodeling surgery, Dr. Hadeed will review your medical history to ensure that you’re healthy enough for the procedure. Ideal candidates for rib remodeling are people under the age of 45, at a healthy, stable weight, and who do not smoke. These parameters are set to ensure that you have a safe and successful surgery with a minimum of risks for complications. Smoking affects blood flow, which can cause complications during surgery and result in poor wound healing during recovery. Age and health conditions can also extend recovery time.
Post-Procedure Care
Your rib remodeling recovery is only as good as you make it, so it is essential that you follow Dr. Hadeed’s post-surgery instructions to the letter. Resting, limiting movement as directed, and allowing your body ample time to heal completely can only benefit you in the long run. Be sure to wear your corset and compression garment as directed to ensure maximum results, and attend all follow-up appointments as instructed. Continue to avoid nicotine and alcohol, stay hydrated, and prioritize healthy eating to help your body as it recovers. In addition, while exercise is prohibited for several weeks after rib remodeling, taking short, slow walks around your home as soon as possible after surgery is encouraged to help prevent blood clots and boost necessary blood flow to the surgical site.
Recovery Challenges
Because Dr. Hadeed is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is highly skilled in performing H-Curve™ rib remodeling surgery, your recovery should proceed without complications. However, because rib remodeling is a surgical procedure, there is always the risk of side effects, such as infection, prolonged discomfort or pain, or improper bone healing. Diligently and thoroughly following Dr. Hadeed’s recovery instructions will significantly reduce the risk of complications. However, if you do experience any concerning symptoms, be sure to contact our office.
Learn More About H-Curve™ Rib Remodeling in Beverly Hills
If you’re ready to finally achieve the hourglass figure you’ve been striving for, it’s time to explore the benefits of rib remodeling surgery. Dr. Hadeed has pioneered H-Curve™ rib remodeling, refining and perfecting his technique to ensure gorgeous, lasting results for his patients.
To learn more and schedule a consultation to see if you’re a candidate for H-Curve™ rib remodeling, call our office today at (310) 970-2940 or complete our online contact form.
