Fitness influencer Amy Castano has publicly shared her experience with a controversial cosmetic procedure known as 'Barbie waist' surgery, which involves rib remodelling to achieve a more defined hourglass figure. The surgery, which cost approximately $14,870, is a serious surgical procedure performed under general anaesthetic.
Castano detailed her recovery on Instagram, explaining that the initial week was manageable with pain medication. While the subsequent weeks involved discomfort rather than acute pain, she noted the security provided by a compression garment worn post-surgery. She stated that the full recovery time is typically 12 weeks, though this can vary.
She resumed light cardio after two weeks and gradually reintroduced resistance training, progressing to light weights by eight weeks. Castano emphasized that her return to exercise was guided by a professional and cautioned followers against mimicking her routine without seeking expert advice.
The influencer decided to be transparent about the surgery to prevent followers from assuming her physique was solely the result of diet and exercise. She expressed a desire for honesty regarding cosmetic procedures, stating, "I don't want anyone else looking at me and thinking, 'I wish I could get that,' or, 'I can achieve that through diet and exercise.'"
Rib remodelling, also called rib contouring, involves reshaping and repositioning the lower ribs inward without removing bone. This procedure has gained prominence partly due to its documented use by reality television personalities and influencers. The surgery is not currently offered in Australia, with individuals seeking the procedure often travelling overseas.
The 'Barbie waist' trend faced significant public debate earlier this year when reality star Bec Zacharia underwent the surgery. Zacharia's experience, which included a trip to Bali organized by a cosmetic tourism company, drew criticism regarding the procedure's safety and the message it conveys to young women. Despite initial hesitation, Zacharia proceeded with the surgery, defending her choice with the statement, "My body, my choice."
Medical experts have voiced concerns about rib remodelling due to its novelty and the limited long-term data on its safety and effectiveness. Professor Anand Deva, head of plastic surgery at Macquarie University, highlighted the potential for damage to vital structures, especially with minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Jason Girkin, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Newcastle, noted that reshaping ribs could lead to complications such as pain or discomfort due to the proximity of intercostal nerves.