Usually they do one side at the time for two reasons. They start with your left side if you are right handed. If anything really bad happen, let say the worse worse scenario like you loose your arm mobility, at least you still get you best side arm. The other reason and it's what i have. If the surgery is not success just like me they usually don't do the surgery on your other side because they can expect what is gonna be the result. I had a rib removal last April and unfortunately my condition is not better now so my doctor don't believe a success on my other side. Also they don't recommended to lift over 5 to 10 pounds for about 3 weeks after the surgery. I am not 100% sure but i think the surgery success are between 70 and 80% but if someone else can confirm that it will be great. I hope everything it's gonna go well for you and i tell you good luck!!!

Alexis