A. Peter Salas, MD

A tummy tuck (AKA abdominoplasty) is often combined with treatment of diastasis rectii. However, the treatment of diastasis rectii is in fact, repair of diastasis rectii.

Repairing a diastasis is not mandatory, but will improve the appearance of the abdomen.

Diastasis rectii does not cause the development of an umbilical  hernia.

Furthermore, I am not aware of any studies correlating a diastasis rectii with lower back problems, or problems with stability & core strength.

If you are bothered by your diastasis, then you may consider a repair of the diastasis.

We perform this procedure laparoscopically with very small incisions and use a pain pump after surgery to make the recovery more comfortable.

If you have a significant amount of excess skin, you can undergo a tummy tuck as well to address the skin excess probe.

The recovery time from this procedure is similar to having a hernia repair. The first day is generally the worst followed by rapid improvement over the course of the first three days. Subsequently, there is discomfort when moving around, but not when laying still.

Patients must not do any lifting  and must not get constipated during the first 6 weeks after surgery.  In our offices we use a compression garment after surgery to prevent fluid accumulation under the skin.

The most important step you can take is picking a qualified, board certified plastic surgeon to examine you and help answer all your questions.

Good luck with your research.