Diastasis Recti Repair: Can a Tummy Tuck Solve It?

Major life events, such as pregnancy or significant weight loss, can leave a mark on your body in the form of diastasis recti. Many nonsurgical methods claim to repair the abs and tone up a bulging midsection, but diastasis repair during tummy tuck surgery is one of the few permanent, noticeable solutions.

What Is Diastasis Recti?

With diastasis recti, the left and right abdominal muscles have separated, causing a protruding bulge along the lower abdomen. This often occurs during pregnancy, as the growing baby places constant pressure on the muscle wall. Yo-yo dieting and improper exercise form (such as during weightlifting) are other common culprits.

While these weakened ab muscles can sometimes correct themselves over time, this isn’t always the case. Issues such as lower back pain and urine leaking are other potential side effects of this condition.

Should I Have Diastasis Recti Surgery or Try Other Options?

Nonsurgical diastasis recti treatment options, including yoga and physical therapy, sometimes work. But you should avoid ab-focused exercises like situps and planks. Diet and exercise alone often can’t correct diastasis recti.

If the muscle bands do not contract and naturally correct themselves after childbirth, then surgery is the only full solution. Your plastic surgeon can directly strengthen the abdominal muscles during tummy tuck surgery and repair the core area.

How To Fix Diastasis Recti With a Tummy Tuck

During a tummy tuck, the surgeon stitches the weakened muscles back together and recreates a solid core. This supports the muscles and trains them to return to their natural position. Tummy tuck surgery is the most comprehensive diastasis recti treatment as it directly addresses the root issue: the protruding abdominal muscles beneath the skin.

A tummy tuck also has the added perk of removing loose, saggy skin and eliminating unwanted fat. For more transformative results, some mothers also combine their tummy tuck with a breast augmentation or liposuction in a procedure called a mommy makeover.

We Can Help

If you’ve ever struggled with a stubborn belly pooch that won’t go away, don’t worry—you’re definitely not alone. With tummy tuck surgery, you can finally slim your midsection and feel much more confident. We’re happy to talk with you about your concerns and discuss whether a tummy tuck is right for you. Use our online form to request a consultation or call us at (480) 466-7355 to schedule an appointment.