After having two children, I had a full tummy tuck 2 years ago to repair my stomach muscles and remove excess skin. After thinking I had an umbilical hernia, the surgeon said I have abdominal diastasis. Why did this happen and what should I do now? My plastic surgeon specifically said she was repairing my stomach muscles. However, the general surgeon I saw told me that it is almost impossible to repair them because no procedure will hold them together. Is this true?
October 8, 2016
Answer: Tummy tuck repair : Recurrent diastasis This is a common sentiment shared by several general surgeons and one of the more common reasons that they refer the patients to plastic surgeons. Generally, I have had over 15 years experience with this procedure and it is extremely rare for the diastasis to recur. I also encourage patients to undertake a Pilates style exercise regimen which strengthen and reinforces the core muscles and the repair. However, I have had occasion to see a few recurrences. Some of these are related to early postop activity damaging the repair (one from exercise and one from severe nausea and vomiting) and weight gain. If the diastasis is repaired, the use of supporting materials such as mesh can be utilized to reinforce the repair and minimize recurrence. I do not routinely use mesh on the first attempt but I do use a double layer repair of permanent sutures. To see one example, view the above video. Otto Placik
Helpful 2 people found this helpful
October 8, 2016
Answer: Tummy tuck repair : Recurrent diastasis This is a common sentiment shared by several general surgeons and one of the more common reasons that they refer the patients to plastic surgeons. Generally, I have had over 15 years experience with this procedure and it is extremely rare for the diastasis to recur. I also encourage patients to undertake a Pilates style exercise regimen which strengthen and reinforces the core muscles and the repair. However, I have had occasion to see a few recurrences. Some of these are related to early postop activity damaging the repair (one from exercise and one from severe nausea and vomiting) and weight gain. If the diastasis is repaired, the use of supporting materials such as mesh can be utilized to reinforce the repair and minimize recurrence. I do not routinely use mesh on the first attempt but I do use a double layer repair of permanent sutures. To see one example, view the above video. Otto Placik
Helpful 2 people found this helpful
February 13, 2009
Answer: They should have fixed your diastasis at the time of the abodminoplasty PrinDeb77, Your surgeon should have fixed your diastasis at the time of your abdominoplasty - this is an inherent component of the procedure. Whether you had an umbilical hernia or not, the diastasis can be repaired. Diastasis is a weakening of the muscles. During the repair, the edges are sewn back together. If you still have a diastasis, then I would recommend going back to your plastic surgeon and have them explain what they did during your original surgery. Good luck.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
February 13, 2009
Answer: They should have fixed your diastasis at the time of the abodminoplasty PrinDeb77, Your surgeon should have fixed your diastasis at the time of your abdominoplasty - this is an inherent component of the procedure. Whether you had an umbilical hernia or not, the diastasis can be repaired. Diastasis is a weakening of the muscles. During the repair, the edges are sewn back together. If you still have a diastasis, then I would recommend going back to your plastic surgeon and have them explain what they did during your original surgery. Good luck.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful