Experts Raise Alarms Over Risky ‘Barbie Waist’ Surgery Trend
A concerning trend in cosmetic surgery, dubbed the ‘Barbie waist’ or ‘snatched waist’ procedure, is drawing significant criticism from medical professionals. This invasive operation, which involves reshaping the lower ribs to achieve an exaggerated hourglass figure, has seen several reality television personalities travel to Bali for the surgery.
The Procedure and Its Risks
The ‘Barbie waist’ surgery entails intentionally fracturing the lower ribs and then using an extremely tight corset for an extended recovery period to mold the bones into a narrower shape. Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Cat Begovic has issued a stern warning regarding the potentially severe health consequences associated with this relatively new cosmetic trend.
Dr. Begovic explained that while older versions of the procedure involved rib removal, current techniques involve making incisions and fracturing the ribs to reposition them inward. Patients are required to wear a rigid corset continuously for a minimum of three months as the bones heal and adopt the desired shape.
“Because the ribs are right next to the lungs, there is a potential of developing a pneumothorax – where the sac around the lung is torn, causing air to rush in and compress the lung, or injury to the lung itself,” Dr. Begovic stated. She emphasized the lack of long-term studies on the procedure’s health risks, highlighting concerns such as chronic pain, potential decreased lung function, and compromise to the protective role of the ribs.
Reality Star Reconsiders Risky Procedure
The controversy surrounding the surgery intensified following reports that reality television personality Bec Zacharia had traveled to Bali to undergo the procedure. However, just moments before she was scheduled for surgery, Zacharia made a last-minute decision to postpone the operation.
Speaking on the MAFS Funny podcast, Zacharia, 35, admitted to arriving at the Bali hospital fully prepared but experiencing significant doubt. “I walked in and I thought, ‘Am I ready? Is this what I want to do?’” she recounted. “I just think that I’m going to take a little bit of time to think about it a little bit more.”
Zacharia clarified that she had full confidence in the facility and the surgeons but ultimately felt she was not ready for the procedure. She also stressed that no pressure was applied by the company that facilitated her trip, affirming her autonomy in making the decision.
Rather than returning home immediately, Zacharia extended her stay in Bali to further reflect on her decision. She also addressed online criticism suggesting she needed professional help, asserting her self-awareness and intuition. “I think it takes courage to sit here and go, ‘Well actually, I am taking a step back to think about it,’” she said. “I think that shows growth.”
Previously, Zacharia had candidly shared that years of body insecurities contributed to her desire for the surgery, citing loose skin as a particular concern. Her initial announcement of plans for the procedure sparked widespread debate, with many criticizing the promotion of unrealistic beauty standards.
