Chest Wall Surgery

Chest wall surgery restores balance and symmetry to the chest, addressing structural concerns with precision and care.

Procedure Overview

Conditions such as pectus excavatum (sunken or funnel chest), pectus carinatum (“pigeon” chest), and rib anomalies such as slipped rib syndrome can affect chest appearance and, in some cases, breathing or heart function. While some patients seek surgery for functional reasons, others choose it to feel more comfortable in their bodies. Some of these anomalies can also be painful and significantly impact quality of life.

Chest wall surgery reshapes and stabilises the chest to create a more natural contour and, in many cases, reduce discomfort while improving posture and breathing. Dr. de Chalain will recommend the most appropriate technique for your condition, whether minimally invasive or open surgery, ensuring treatment is tailored to your individual needs.

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What to expect

  • Dr. de Chalain will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination to understand your chest wall structure. Imaging or breathing tests may be arranged to guide treatment planning. This is also an opportunity to discuss your goals and expectations. In some cases, more than one consultation may be recommended to ensure the best approach.

  • As chest wall surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, you’ll need to abstain from food and drink for a set period beforehand. Dr. de Chalain will review your medications and may advise adjustments to reduce surgical risks. Stopping smoking and maintaining general fitness will support your recovery. You’ll also be advised on how much time to plan away from work, school, or sport.

  • The surgical approach depends on the condition being treated. For pectus excavatum, techniques such as the Nuss procedure (placing a curved bar behind the sternum) or the Ravitch procedure (reshaping cartilage and repositioning the sternum) may be used.

    For pectus carinatum, most patients—if seen early during the adolescent growth spurt (approximately 11–14 years of age)—can be managed conservatively with a chest brace. Surgical treatment involves correcting the protrusion and stabilising the chest wall by altering the shape and projection of the rib cartilages.

    Isolated rib anomalies may be reshaped or removed. All procedures are performed under general anaesthetic, with the aim of creating a balanced and functional chest contour.

  • Following surgery, you’ll be closely monitored as you wake from anaesthetic. Pain relief will be provided, and in some cases drains may be placed to prevent fluid build-up. Most patients remain in hospital for several days so that breathing, heart function, and comfort can be supported during the initial recovery period.

  • You can expect some chest discomfort, which will improve gradually and can be managed with prescribed pain relief. Activity will be limited for the first few weeks, with heavier exertion and contact sports avoided until your surgeon advises it is safe. Gentle movement and breathing exercises may be recommended to help your chest adjust to its new shape. Most patients return to school, work, or lighter activities within 4–6 weeks.

  • Regular follow-up is an important part of your care. At these appointments, Dr. de Chalain will check the healing of your chest wall and incisions, monitor your breathing and heart function, and advise when you can safely return to normal activity. Any sutures or support garments will also be reviewed. Longer-term follow-up may be recommended to ensure the best functional and aesthetic outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • People seek chest wall surgery for different reasons. For some, it’s about easing physical discomfort or improving lung function. For others, it’s about feeling more confident in their chest shape. The goal is always to create a more natural, balanced contour while supporting overall wellbeing.

  • Chest wall surgery can address structural concerns including sunken or funnel chest, pigeon chest, and other rib wall anomalies. Dr. de Chalain will tailor the surgical plan to your individual anatomy and goals.

  • Ideal candidates are in good overall health, with a chest wall condition that affects function, appearance, or both. A consultation allows Dr. de Chalain to assess your individual anatomy and discuss the best surgical options for your needs.

  • This depends on the individual case. When the procedure is performed to address functional issues (such as restricted breathing), it may be classified as reconstructive. When performed purely for aesthetic reasons, it’s typically considered cosmetic. Dr. de Chalain can help clarify this during your consultation.

  • The surgical approach depends on the type and severity of the chest wall difference. Techniques may include repositioning or reshaping the cartilage and ribs, or reinforcing the chest structure with support implants. All procedures are carried out under general anaesthetic with careful planning for an optimal outcome.

  • Recovery varies according to the technique used. Most patients stay in hospital for a short period, then continue recovering at home. Discomfort is managed with prescribed pain relief, and gentle activity is gradually reintroduced. Dr. de Chalain will provide a detailed, personalised recovery plan.

  • All surgery involves some scarring, but incisions are planned carefully to keep scars as discreet as possible. Scars typically fade over time, and specific scar management strategies can support a refined result.

  • Some improvements are visible immediately after surgery, though swelling is expected in the early stages. The chest shape continues to refine as healing progresses, with final results typically settling over several months.

  • The cost depends on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is classified as reconstructive or cosmetic. In some cases, reconstructive chest wall surgery may be partially or fully covered by public health funding or insurance. Cosmetic procedures are usually self-funded. A detailed quote is provided after your consultation. For more information on how we price our procedures, see our Pricing Information page.

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