Rib
Remodeling

Sculpt a Beautifully Defined Hourglass Figure
Have you ever wondered why some people seem naturally blessed with that coveted hourglass figure? While genetics play a role, rib remodeling surgery offers a transformative solution for those seeking a more defined waistline and enhanced body proportions. At PURE Plastic Surgery in Miami, Florida, our experienced surgeons help patients achieve their ideal silhouette through this advanced body contouring technique.

What Is Rib Remodeling?
Rib remodeling, also known as waist narrowing surgery, is a specialized cosmetic procedure that reshapes the lower ribcage to create a more dramatic waist-to-hip ratio. During this surgery, portions of the floating ribs — typically the 11th and 12th ribs, which aren’t attached to the sternum — are carefully repositioned to reduce the circumference of your waistline.
Unlike traditional liposuction or tummy tucks that address soft tissue, rib remodeling targets the skeletal structure itself. This approach allows for more dramatic and permanent results in patients with a wide ribcage that prevents them from achieving their desired hourglass shape.
At PURE Plastic Surgery, double-board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Earle brings years of expertise in advanced body sculpting techniques to this complex procedure, ensuring both safety and stunning results that complement your natural proportions.
Benefits of Rib Remodeling
Rib remodeling at PURE Plastic Surgery offers transformative results by addressing structural limitations that diet and exercise simply cannot overcome, offering a permanent solution for achieving your ideal silhouette. Key benefits of rib remodeling include:
- Create a dramatically narrower waistline and enhanced hourglass figure
- Achieve permanent, skeletal-based results unaffected by weight fluctuations
- Improve overall body proportions and visual balance
- Enhance confidence in form-fitting clothing and swimwear
- Complement results from other body contouring procedures
- Eliminate frustration from genetic limitations of ribcage width
Dr. Earle will carefully assess your anatomy and aesthetic goals to determine if rib remodeling aligns with your vision. At PURE, we're committed to helping you achieve the sculpted silhouette you've always wanted through safe, advanced surgical techniques tailored to your unique needs and body proportions.

Ideal Candidates for Rib Remodeling
The best candidates for rib remodeling surgery are individuals who feel frustrated by a naturally wide ribcage that makes it difficult or impossible to achieve a narrow waist and stunning hourglass figure despite maintaining a healthy weight and active lifestyle. This procedure is also frequently sought by transgender women looking to create more feminine body proportions.
Ideal patients should be in excellent overall health with realistic expectations about the procedure's outcomes. Since this surgery involves skeletal modification, candidates must be committed to following post-operative care instructions precisely to ensure proper healing.
Candidates should consider whether they:
- Have completed their family planning, as pregnancy may affect your results
- Maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle
- Understand the recovery process and can commit to the necessary healing time
During your consultation at PURE Plastic Surgery, our team will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals and determine if rib remodeling aligns with your aesthetic vision.
How Does Rib Remodeling Work?
Rib remodeling is performed under general anesthesia at PURE's state-of-the-art, Joint Commission-accredited surgical facility. During the procedure, your surgeon makes small, strategically placed incisions along the back or sides of the torso to access the ribs. Then, a partial medical-grade fracture is created in the lower floating ribs, allowing them to be repositioned to reduce the circumference of the waistline.
The procedure takes about an hour to complete and is performed using ultrasound guidance for enhanced safety and precision. The ribs are never removed and no large scars remain — the incisions are about the same size as those used for liposuction (2-3 millimeters). After the ribs are repositioned, the incisions are closed and you will be placed into a compression garment and corset to reduce swelling and support the healing process.

What Kind of Results Can I Expect?
Rib remodeling produces nearly instantaneous results. You will notice a narrower and more defined waistline immediately after surgery, with a coveted hourglass shape that many patients seek. Clothing will fit differently, and you’ll find yourself feeling more confident in anything you wear, from snug tops and dresses to bikinis and bodysuits. Your new contours will continue to improve and refine as swelling decreases and the ribs heal over the following months.
For the best results, we often recommend combining rib remodeling with liposuction or a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) to improve your overall body contours and proportions. At PURE, our team will evaluate your anatomy to recommend the best approach for achieving your goals.
Rib Remodeling Recovery
Recovery from rib remodeling requires patience and a commitment to carefully following all post-op instructions. Initially, you'll experience some discomfort and swelling around the surgical sites, which is completely normal and manageable with prescribed medication.
During the first week, rest is your primary responsibility. You'll need to avoid lifting, bending or engaging in strenuous activities that could stress the healing tissues. You will be instructed to wear a compression garment and corset to protect the ribs and support healing. These should be used consistently and as directed for the first several weeks following surgery.
Physical activity will be gradually reintroduced over the following months. Light walking is encouraged early in recovery to promote circulation, but more intensive exercise must wait until your surgeon clears you during follow-up appointments. Most patients can return to light office work within seven to ten days, though this can vary — everyone heals differently!
Frequently
Asked Questions
Is Rib Remodeling Painful?
How Does Rib Remodeling Differ from Rib Removal?
Does Rib Remodeling Affect Rib Strength or Integrity?
Will Rib Remodeling Affect Future Pregnancies?
Can Rib Remodeling Be Combined With Other Procedures?
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