PT versus surgery to fix Diastasis Recti? (Photo)

Question

(2 kids, 6&8) 5’6” 130lbs I’m wanting to know if a tummy tuck with diastasis repair will help with the abdominal pressure and upper ab gripping my PT says I’m unconsciously doing. I’ve done lots of PT it helps some but if I ever stop issues slowly come back and I’m tired of feeling broken. I’d love to see results from working out instead of the mom pooch and constant weakness of my core. Ive heard it helps with lower back pain but I wasn’t sure about the outward pressure at the DR. Thanks

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

A tummy tuck with diastasis recti repair can potentially address the abdominal pressure and weakness you're experiencing. Diastasis recti is a condition where the abdominal muscles separate, often occurring after pregnancy, and can result in a bulging or protruding abdomen.

During a tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon will tighten the abdominal muscles, repair the diastasis recti, and remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. This can lead to a flatter and more toned appearance of the abdomen and potentially improve core strength and stability.

By repairing the diastasis recti and tightening the abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck can help alleviate the outward pressure you feel in the upper abdomen. It may also provide relief from any associated lower back pain that may be caused by the weakened abdominal muscles.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.

Based on your photos, your main issue appears to be recuts diastasis in the lower portion of your abdomen which is common after pregnancies an childbirth.  You appear to have minimal skin excess and fatty tissue excess.

Unfortunately there is no easy non-surgical way to "fix" rectus diastasis (rectus muscle separation).  Physical therapy may help but it will not fully correct rectus diastasis.

You may be a candidate for a mini-tummy tuck vs. full tummy tuck procedure in order
to create a flatter abdominal contour.

I would recommend to obtain an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to further discuss your options and expectations.

I hope this helps.

Best,
Dr. Karanetz

Dr. Irena Karanetz
Fellowship-Trained
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Rady Rahban, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your great question! Diastasis recti can be a debilitating and painful condition for many women. I have worked on many women who suffer from diastasis recti who have had excellent outcomes in terms of DR associated pain. It is absolutely crucial to seek out and consult with a Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon who has extensive experience with severe cases of diastasis recti repair. I happen to be a DR expert and use a meshless approach. I make a low incision, and plicate the connective tissue back into the midline using permanent sutures. In my experience, this surgery has been extremely effective for a majority of my patients with regaining function and alleviating symptoms associated with DR. I've attached that I hope is informative to you as you embark on your DR journey. If you haven't yet listened to my podcast, Plastic Surgery Uncensored, I highly recommend it as there is a lot of discussion pertaining to DR.

Vincent Gardner, MD · Answer

Hi Powerfu680708, 
We see it all the time.....abdominal distension with pregnancy separates the rectus muscles and no matter how much you work out they will never come back together. I think you will be very happy with your results after abdominoplasty with rectus repair. Also, it will help get rid of any stretch marks below the umbilicus. Sounds weird to say.....but I love seeing a belly like yours because I know you are going to be very happy with your results when you recover from surgery! Good luck!

Edgar Serrano, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Endoscopic lipoabdominoplasty is the surgical technique utilizing endoscopy to repair acquired abdominal wall defects, such as diastasis recti or ventral hernias.An internal corset (muscle plication) is performed .Only three mini incisions are used, a large wound is not made as in conventional abdominoplasty.

PT versus surgery to fix Diastasis Recti? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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