When to worry about diastasis recti? (photo)

Question

I've had 4 children and had some muscle separation after all of them that eventually closed back up. I'm now 3 years past my last pregnancy and it has not closed back up as much as before. When I do the "test" laying down, there is about a 2-3 finger width separation starting just at my belly button and going above. But standing up I don't feel like it looks like I have a problem. But I can still feel it. Do I need to look into surgery or just leave it alone?

W. John Bull, MD · Answer

Unless you have a bulge from the diastasis or skin laxity that you want removed, I would leave it alone. Most women though don't have your experience. Also it may be more than you think, but if it is not affecting your shape I would not have it repaired. This would be easier to assess though if you had a full exam. I would suggest seeing a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns.

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  Not everyone with a diastasis separation requires intervention.  If the look doesn't bother you or cause any symptoms then there is no indication to do anything.  One goal of surgery would be to correct a bulge, however, if there is none then no need for treatment.  The image looks normal, so while one may feel a separation, not everyone needs this corrected.  Good luck.

Sean Satey, MD, FACS · Answer

If you're asymptomatic from your diastasis recti, there is nothing that needs to be done. Most people live their day to day lives with a diastasis recti and don't even know they have one. If you become symptomatic, or are tired of the poor cosmesis, then you may elect to proceed with a repair. Best, Dr. Satey.

Christa Clark, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there thank you for your question. Couple of things: most insurance companies won't cover diastasis recti repair. So if you want to pursue this it will be an elective cosmetic repair.To gain access to sew the diastasis together would  require and incision 6" in length at the level of a C-section scar/incision point and sometimes a counter incision just above the belly button. You look very good however! Unless you have a functional problem because of this I would leave it.  Give yourself a hug and be proud of the way you look after having 4 children!

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