Can a general surgeon perform a laparoscopic diastasis recti repair?

Question

I have a diastasis and several hernias, which my plastic surgeon won't repair, and he doesn't do lap/endo surgeries. I do have a little excess skin. I really want to avoid the hip to hip scar. Can I have my general surgeon do my DR repair with my hernias laparoscopically, and then have my PS get rid of the excess skin with a mini TT, or does it have to be a PS who does the DR repair?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You may be able to find a surgeon to repair the diastasis but you will want to check that they are experienced and successful in doing so.  You may also have issues finding insurance to cover it as it is considered cosmetic.  There are surgeons, like myself, who are board certified in both general and plastic surgery.  We may be able to repair hernias at the time of a tummy tuck, meaning only one trip to the operating room and one recovery.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether a general surgeon can perform your laparoscopic diastasis repair and then have your plastic surgeon perform a mini tummy tuck later. I don’t see any reason why not. Yes, your general surgeon can perform laparoscopic diastasis repair as well as repair of your hernias. This can be done laparoscopically. At a later date, you can have the excess skin and fat removed by a plastic surgeon through a mini tummy tuck. Your chosen plastic surgeon does not need to do the diastasis rectus repair. Thank you for your question regarding if your general surgeon can perform a rectus diastasis repair.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @customframes, thank you for your question. Yes, a general surgeon can perform a laparoscopic diastasis recti repair as they are trained in a variety of surgical procedures, including hernia repairs and laparoscopic surgery. However, it is important to note that you should look for an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon. This is because a plastic surgeon, not only is a general surgeon but is specialized in plastic surgery and has the necessary knowledge, skills and experience in performing both of this procedure. This will help ensure that the best outcome is achieved. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP) FACS.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Although laparoscopic diastasis repair has been described very few surgeons adapted the technique and you’re going to have a hard time finding a surgeon who is experienced with it.  I know you don’t want the scar of a tummy tuck but I can’t think of another option

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

To do a diastasis recti repair, the abdominal skin has to be elevated to expose the muscles.  One cannot do this laparoscopically.  Some plastic surgeons with general surgery backgrounds can repair abdominal hernias at the same time.  DR is not something that general surgeons have been trained to do.

Can a general surgeon perform a laparoscopic diastasis recti repair?

Answers (9)

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: A distasis recit cannot be reapaired laparoscopically

Answer: A distasis recit cannot be reapaired laparoscopically

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Can a general surgeon perform a laparoscopic diastasis recti repair?

Answers (9)

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: A distasis recit cannot be reapaired laparoscopically

Answer: A distasis recit cannot be reapaired laparoscopically

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.