The abdominal wall includes a left and right side, the two sides of the “six pack” ab muscles. In the center of the six pack is the connecting fascia tissue that holds them together. When this fascia tissue is stretched and damaged, the right and left sides of the ab muscles can separate, a condition called diastasis recti. This is a common condition caused by pregnancy, which can result in a tummy pooch. At Eden Plastic Surgery Institute, we offer diastasis recti repair surgery at our medical center in Miami.
Most women have some abdominal muscle stretching and looseness after pregnancy, and the same can occur with extreme weight gain in the abdomen area. After childbirth or weight loss, the muscles can tighten and become flatter again, but that is not always the case. With diastasis recti, the muscle separation may be permanent. A bulge or protrusion in the abdomen occurs, regardless of diet or exercise. This can vary from a small pooch to a large protrusion, almost like a pregnant belly.
Tummy Tucks Versus Diastasis Recti Repair
Both tummy tucks and diastasis recti repair surgeries are used to tighten the abdomen muscles, often after pregnancy. However, they are not the same surgery. Tummy tucks focus on removing excess skin, fat and tissue, as well as tightening the muscles in the abdomen. Diastasis recti repair focuses on reconnecting the abdominal muscles to repair the separation. However, both can be completed at the same time if a patient has diastasis recti and excess skin/tissue.
Diastasis recti repair surgery can help improve the strength of the core and improve the appearance of the abdomen. If you have separated stomach muscles from weight gain, pregnancy or other abdominal strain, contact us at Eden Plastic Surgery Institute. We can schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali Charafeddine to discuss the best procedure to reshape and repair your abdomen at our clinic in Miami.