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Post-Pregnancy Diastasis Recti: Can Abdominoplasty Fix My Separated Abs?
Giving birth is a miraculous event, but it changes your body. Post-pregnancy, many women find themselves dealing with a condition called diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles.
Although this condition often resolves on its own, some women are stuck with the condition along with its aesthetic impact and physical discomfort.
If your abs were overstretched and separated during pregnancy and childbirth and now look bulged and unnatural, we can help.
Postpartum moms throughout McLean, Virginia, and Rockville, Maryland, trust board-certified Frederick H. Watkins, MD, to repair their abs and reclaim their pre-pregnancy bodies. Here, Dr. Watkins explains what diastasis recti is and how a tummy tuck might be the solution you’re looking for.
How pregnancy causes diastasis recti
Diastasis recti happens when your rectus abdominis muscles (the “six-pack” muscles) separate along the midline of your stomach.
During pregnancy, your abdominal wall stretches to accommodate your baby. If it stretches too far, it can pull the muscles away from one another. Weightlifters and people with obesity can also experience diastasis recti.
Symptoms of diastasis recti
Diastasis recti is easy to spot. The telltale signs are:
- Visible belly bulge that’s noticeable when you contract your abdominal muscles
- Lower back pain due to weakened core muscles
- Poor posture due to weak abdominal wall muscles
- Digestive issues, such as bloating and constipation
Don’t brush off diastasis recti as purely cosmetic — it can lead to significant health issues if left untreated.
How to fix diastasis recti
For some women, all it takes is time for their separated abs to return to normal. Others need physical therapy to help the process along.
However, while exercise can strengthen your abdominal muscles and may reduce the appearance of diastasis recti, Dr. Watkins recommends caution. Specific exercises might worsen the condition, so consult him about a targeted exercise program to close the gap between your muscles without causing additional strain.
Abdominoplasty for diastasis recti
Despite diligent exercise, muscle separation may persist, and that’s where medical intervention might be necessary.
Dr. Watkins offers abdominoplasty or a tummy tuck to fix your separated abs. The surgery involves removing excess abdominal skin and fat while tightening your underlying muscles.
The procedure
During abdominoplasty, Dr. Watkins makes an incision from one hipbone to the other. Through this incision, he accesses your abdominal muscles and brings them back together, stitching them into a corrected position. He then removes excess skin and pulls the remaining skin taut to make your tummy smoother.
Recovery
Recovery from a tummy tuck typically takes about six weeks, during which you need to avoid strenuous activities. However, most patients report significant improvements in both appearance and physical comfort within a few months.
Benefits beyond appearance
Abdominoplasty for diastasis recti resolves your bulging belly, but the benefits go beyond mere looks. You walk away with:
- Improved core strength
- Better posture
- Less back pain
- Boosted confidence
With your restored abs, you’ll be able to stand tall and straight, breathe more easily, work out more efficiently, and adopt a more positive outlook.
Is abdominoplasty right for you?
Abdominoplasty can fix your abs, but that doesn’t mean you should do it.
Dr. Watkins is known for his honest evaluations. He never recommends surgical procedures unless it’s necessary and safe. He performs a thorough examination and considers several factors, including:
- Your general health
- Future pregnancies: If you plan on having more children, postpone the surgery
- Realistic expectations
If you have other issues you want to address in addition to diastasis recti, talk to Dr. Watkins. He offers a comprehensive, personalized mommy makeover that includes whatever you need to regain your pre-pregnancy body, such as:
For more information on abdominoplasty for diastasis recti or our signature mommy makeover, request a consultation with Dr. Watkins online or call our location most convenient to you today.
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