Does diastasis recti get larger with age?

Question

Definitely larger girth in the past 10 years albeit have significant belly fat (I think so). I'm 5' 11 and weigh 165 pounds

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This is often difficult to assess without physical exam.   There may be some additional abdominal wall weakness.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question.Diastasis recti - the widening of the muscle can get worse with age if there is excess weight gain causes further pressure on the intervening soft tissue between the muscle.Also in general not exercsing and loosing some bulk of the muscle causes protrusion.The good news is that there are great options available for correction.Best wishes,Dr Sajjadian

Andrew Wolfe, MD · Answer

There are many factors which affect the integrity of the abdominal wall.  Pregnancy is certainly the most obvious cause of diastasis and abdominal wall laxity, but weight fluctuations can have an effect, as well.  Age, per se, is not as significant a cause, but many people gain weight with age.  In women, the deposition of fat changes as hormone levels change with age, and many women find that fat settles more in their midsection over time.  Because of this, you may have a sense that your abdomen is more relaxed and/or fuller than it was when you were younger. Abdominal wall laxity can be corrected surgically, but intra-abdominal fat is something that only diet and exercise can fix.   Visit a board certified Plastic Surgeon for an evaluation and they should be able to give you advice on your options.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Diastasis Recti - the separation off your mid line paired abdominal muscles should not get worse with age but rather with decreased physical activity and weight gain.

Does diastasis recti get larger with age?

Answers (4)

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