If I have a mommy makeover, can lipo be done under the diastasis recti before it is repaired?

Question

II have been told I will need to have the muscles repaired had gastric bypass and have lost 120 pounds. I am about 40 pounds from my goal weight. My bmi will be 29-30. A previous dr told me that there is likely fat underneath and on top of the Diastisis recti. If I have a mommy makeover, can lipo be done under the Diastisis recti before it is repaired ?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding fat removal during a mommy makeover.

That can be removed during a tummy tuck, unless it is visceral fat which can only be targeted by diet and exercise.

To be sure, I recommend an in person consultation with two or more board-certified plastic surgeons in your area.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss! There is fat below the abdominal muscle wall.  This is called visceral fat.  This is the fat around your organs.  It can not be suctioned.  This area is only affected via weight loss.  The fat above the abdominal wall is what can be addressed through either a tummy tuck or liposuction.

Leo McCafferty, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question!  I would recommend you get to your goal weight prior to considering any surgery.  This will not only allow for a safer operation but also a much better result.  The fat underneath the diastasis recti that you are referring to I suspect is visceral fat around your organs which can only be reduced with weight loss.  Congratulations on the weight you've already lost and good luck with your goal.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Intuitive630519,
the only way to reduce intraabdominal fat is to lose weight. Liposuction will remove fat under the skin and above muscles. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You can have liposuction above to rectus but not below it. If you go behind the rectus you will be inside the abdomen. Sounds like there may have been some confusion about what you were told.

If I have a mommy makeover, can lipo be done under the diastasis recti before it is repaired?

Answers (5)

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

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Everything you need to know about Diastasis Recti Repair

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If I have a mommy makeover, can lipo be done under the diastasis recti before it is repaired?

Answers (5)

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Diastasis Recti Repair

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