How to fix abdominal separation appearance after TT and MR? (Photo)

You have a great result. If you look at how wide your diastasis was, likely the muscles themselves were stretched (not just separated).

Since CT scan confirms that your muscles are together, the only thing you can do is strengthen them. If working out isn’t enough, the Emsculpt or Emtone device can improve muscle tone. It requires twice weekly sessions up front and maintenance sessions after that.

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding how to address the appearance of abdominal muscle separation after undergoing a tummy tuck with muscle repair and umbilical hernia repair. I appreciate the details you've provided, including your history, CT scan results, and pictures.

Based on the CT scan confirming that there is no rectus diastasis (muscle separation), it is unlikely that your abdominal contour concerns are due to a failed muscle repair. Instead, several factors could contribute to the appearance of separation, including residual swelling, differences in muscle tone, variations in fat distribution, or even the natural way your muscles are structured.

One common reason for a lingering "separated" look is the natural anatomy of the rectus abdominis muscles. These muscles have a central linea alba (a band of connective tissue) between them, which can sometimes create an optical illusion of separation, especially in individuals with low body fat. Additionally, postoperative swelling or changes in skin elasticity can create a shadowing effect along the midline, emphasizing the appearance of a gap.

If you desire a closer, more defined muscle appearance, the best non-surgical approach would be targeted core exercises to build muscle tone and enhance abdominal definition. Strength training and high-tension exercises such as planks, Pilates, or resistance training can help tighten and bring out the definition of your abdominal wall. Non-invasive body contouring treatments such as Emsculpt, which uses electromagnetic stimulation to strengthen and firm the muscles, may also help refine your abdominal contour.

Since your CT scan confirmed that your rectus abdominis muscles are intact and well approximated, most plastic surgeons would agree that further surgical revision is unnecessary. However, if you remain concerned, I recommend discussing your specific aesthetic goals with your surgeon to explore personalized options.

Thank you for your question regarding how to improve the appearance of abdominal separation after muscle repair. If you have any additional concerns, consult an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with expertise in tummy tuck surgery.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Hello,Before the surgery, there was a significant rectus diastasis and umbilical hernia. These were very effectively corrected through the operation. The rectus abdominis muscles are not closely aligned at the midline. There is a connective tissue band, known as the linea alba, formed by the anterior and posterior fasciae of the muscles on both sides. If this connective tissue band becomes very weak, rectus diastasis occurs. The current appearance is quite good and is the expected result.