Anterior Aesthetic Rib Cage Remodeling With Osteosynthesis

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Body contouring is a growing trend in aesthetic plastic surgery.
• Anterior thoracic cage deformities, particularly lower rib prominence, are common patient concerns.
• The anterior aesthetic rib cage remodeling with osteosynthesis (ARCO) technique was developed to address these deformities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the ARCO technique for anterior rib cage remodeling.
• To assess changes in chest circumference and patient satisfaction after the ARCO procedure.
• To investigate the impact of the ARCO technique on respiratory function.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 34 patients who underwent the ARCO procedure.
• Measurement of rib cage perimeter pre- and post-operatively.
• Spirometry, intraoperative monitoring of peak airway pressure and pulmonary compliance, and BODY-Q questionnaires for satisfaction assessment.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in inferior rib cage perimeter (mean decrease of 2 cm, P < 0.001).
• Stable intraoperative peak inspiratory pressure and pulmonary compliance.
• No restrictive changes in respiratory volumes observed during follow-up.
• High patient satisfaction reported via BODY-Q.

Conclusions:

• The ARCO technique is an effective method for reducing chest circumference and enhancing anterior rib aesthetics.
• The procedure involves controlled fracture and osteosynthesis, ensuring stability and natural curvature.
• The ARCO technique achieves high patient satisfaction with a low risk of complications and eliminates the need for postoperative corsets.