A study of surgeon-submitted records found complications in 86 of 2,351 rib-remodeling cases, providing a limited snapshot of outcomes for cosmetic procedures performed using several different techniques.
Published online April 13, 2026, in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open, the study covered operations performed from 2018 through 2024. Seventy-four board-certified plastic surgeons supplied the records. Researchers included cases with at least one year of follow-up and complete clinical and surgical information. The resulting 3.7% complication figure describes those records and is not a general rate for all patients.
Among the 86 reported complications, wound hyperpigmentation appeared in 15 cases, rib nonunion in 13, burns in 11 and corset-related pressure ulcers in 11. Researchers also recorded four pneumothoraces, all associated with the RibXcar technique, and no deaths in the sample.
The study grouped several approaches under rib remodeling. These included removing lower ribs, making controlled fractures to change rib angles, and using plates to stabilize the bones. Some fracture-based procedures involve wearing a corset for three months. Because the records combine techniques, the overall percentage does not show how risks compare among individual procedures.
The Guardian reported that Daniela Cesin had three lower ribs fractured on each side and wore a corset afterward. She said her waist measurement was eight centimeters smaller six weeks after the operation and described discomfort during recovery. Her account is one patient's experience and does not establish typical results.
The Guardian described growing interest in rib remodeling, while ABC News reported influencer promotion of rib contouring in Australia and cited experts' concerns about social-media marketing. Those reports document attention to the procedure but do not quantify how many operations are performed or measure a rise over time.
The study authors said the available evidence was insufficient to draw firm conclusions about respiratory effects. They recommended studies across more centers to assess longer-term results.
