plastic surgery for pectus excavatum: Understanding the Procedure
Pectus excavatum is a condition in which the breastbone or sternum appears sunken or depressed, causing the chest to appear concave. This condition is also known as funnel chest or sunken chest. It is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth and can affect both genders, but it is more common in males.
While pectus excavatum does not necessarily cause any physical health problems, it can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and confidence. People with pectus excavatum may feel self-conscious about their chest and may avoid activities that require them to take off their shirts, such as swimming or going to the beach.
Fortunately, plastic surgery can help correct pectus excavatum and improve a person’s appearance and self-esteem. In this article, we will discuss the plastic surgery options available for pectus excavatum and how they work.
Nuss Procedure
The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to correct pectus excavatum. It involves inserting a curved metal bar under the sternum to help push it outward, thus correcting the concave appearance of the chest. The bar is secured with sutures to keep it in place, and it remains in the body for two to three years before being removed.
The Nuss procedure is typically performed on patients between the ages of 6 and 17 years old, although it can be done on adults as well. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days before being discharged. Recovery time can take up to six weeks, during which patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities.
Ravitch Procedure
The Ravitch procedure is another surgical option for correcting pectus excavatum. This procedure involves removing a section of the sternum and reshaping it to correct the concave appearance of the chest. The sternum is then secured in place with metal wires or sutures.
The Ravitch procedure is typically performed on patients between the ages of 16 and 40 years old. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days before being discharged. Recovery time can take up to six weeks, during which patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities.
Combined Procedure
In some cases, a combination of the Nuss and Ravitch procedures may be used to correct pectus excavatum. This is known as a combined procedure, and it involves using the Nuss procedure to insert a curved metal bar under the sternum and then using the Ravitch procedure to reshape the sternum around the bar. The bar is then secured in place with metal wires or sutures.
The combined procedure is typically performed on patients between the ages of 16 and 40 years old. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days before being discharged. Recovery time can take up to six weeks, during which patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, plastic surgery for pectus excavatum comes with risks and complications. These can include infection, bleeding, allergic reaction to anesthesia, and damage to internal organs. The Nuss procedure also carries a risk of the metal bar shifting or becoming dislodged, which may require additional surgery to correct.
It is important to discuss the risks and complications of plastic surgery for pectus excavatum with a qualified plastic surgeon before undergoing the procedure. Patients should also ensure that they choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in performing the procedure.
Conclusion
Plastic surgery can be an effective way to correct pectus excavatum and improve a person’s appearance and self-esteem. The Nuss procedure, Ravitch procedure, and combined procedure are all options for correcting pectus excavatum, and each has its own benefits and risks. Patients should discuss their options with a qualified plastic surgeon and make an informed decision based on their individual needs and concerns.