Question regaring thorocoplasty operation‏

[Andrea]

Hi, I am 32 year old female living in Sydney. I underwent spinal correction surgery back in 1994 for scoliosis. Although the surgery went well and am fit / healthy etc, I am beginning to do research of the procedure "thoracoplasty" to correct the rib hump on the right side as this has always been very prominent. I feel if I have this surgery it will improve so many qualities of my life, but am uncertain about which surgeon to approach. Has anyone had any experience with this procedure and do you recommend any good surgeons that would perform this surgery (in Sydney preferable).


Thank you in advance.

[Christine]

Hi Andrea

I had correction surgery two years ago and thoracoplasty one year ago. My hump didn't disappear as I'd hoped and my surgeon was happy to do the thoracoplasty after waiting a year for my spine to fuse...

Five ribs were cut, and now I am super happy with the result and my back is almost perfectly flat. My shoulder blade still pops out a teensy bit but am working on that with some exercise.

My surgeon is in Melbourne but expect someone will post about a Sydney one for you. Is your original surgeon still around? He might be the best person to start with.

The surgery itself is not as major as fusion, but still pretty big and I had two months off work. It is pretty painful, different from fusion pain. But really worth it. It has changed everything about how I feel about my body.

[Andrea]

Hi Christine,

Thank you so much for your helpful words - I really appreciate it. It sounds like the surgery really improved your quality of life and the result was great. It's a bit scary, but like you say, it's worth it in the end for so many different reasons.

I have done a bit of research on the net over night and I will make an apopintment to see a specialist (after I get a referral). My originial surgeon has retired, but I will see what my doctor says.

Thanks again. This forum is really great for advice - makes you realise you are not the only one!