How Do I Know if I Have Torn Abdominal Muscles?

Thank you for your question.  During pregnancy the enlargement of the uterus and the gain in intraabdominal weight leads to stretching of the connective tissues that surround the abdominal wall muscles.  The connective tissue stretches but often does not come back after childbearing leaving the abdominal wall loose.  The muscles are usually just fine.  This separation of the muscles, particularly in the midline is called diastasis rectus.  Some doctors mistakenly consider it a hernia which is not.  During most routine abdominoplasty surgeries this separation or diastasis is repaired bringing the muscles back together in the midline and flattening the abdominal wall.  You should see a board certified plastic surgeon who can confirm this diagnosis for you.  Only an examination will determine what course you should take but it sounds from your description that you are a good candidate for full formal abdominoplasty with muscle tightening.
 
Best wishes.

The findings that you describe are extremely common
following pregnancy. During pregnancy, the abdominal wall becomes stretched by
the rapid expansion of the intra-abdominal contents.In many cases, this results in separation of
the paired rectus muscles which results in a midline separation called a
diastasis.This separation extends from
the pubic bone to the rib cage and is especially noticeable when the abdominal
muscles are flexed.Flexion typically
results in a midline bulge that extends from the pubis to the rib cage.Correction
of this problem usually requires an abdominoplasty.The underlying muscles are repaired and the
excess skin is removed as well.This
hopefully flattens your lower abdominal bulge.If you’re
considering abdominoplasty surgery, consultation with a board certified plastic
surgeon is appropriate, this surgeon should be able to formulate a treatment
plan that addresses your anatomic findings and achieves your aesthetic goals

There is nothing wrong with the abdominal muscles a woman with abdominal wall laxity after pregnancy. The fascia (connective tissue) is stretched and can be repaired within abdominoplasty. The muscles are left alone.

   If you have rectus muscle separation or diastasis, a tummy tuck with plication of the muscles can significantly improve pooch.

During pregnancy the intra-abdominal expansion stretches the overlying muscle and skin. Very commonly women gain additional fat in the abdominal area during pregnancy. The stretching can separate the connection of the rectus muscles of the abdominal wall. The separation is called a diastases recti. Normally this separation can be palpated preoperatively. After pregnancy if stretch marks are present it indicates that the underlying deep layer of skin has been torn and should not be expected to retract. A physical examination performed by an experienced plastic surgeon should be able to determine the degree to which each of these components contribute to the lower abdominal "pouch". If there is loose skin both above and below the umbilicus a full tummy time will be required to optimally correct the problem. During the course of the tummy tuck the separation of the muscle can be repaired. If there is no separation of the muscles and no loose skin above the umbilicus a mini tummy tuck may be the solution.For a simple and illustrated explanation of tummy tuck and body contouring
procedures, watch my video.