Diastis Recti Scarring - is there any way to avoid the long scar from a tummy tuck?

The length of the tummy tuck scar is influenced by the amount of loose skin on the abdomen. For those with minimal loose skin below the belly button you can consider a mini tummy tuck which has a shorter scar. To find out what would be recommended for you schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

Thank you for your question. In order for a surgeon to remove excess skin from the abdomen, an incision is required. If they make a short incision, only the skin above that incision will be removed. For patients with just focally loose skin in the centre of their tummy this might look fine, but for most of my patients who want tummy tuck surgery, there is loose skin that goes right across the abdomen and even onto the sides of their body. If a short incision is used for this pattern of loose skin, they will still have loose, floppy folds of skin on each side of the scar. Most of my patients would accept the longer scar if it means the shape and contour of the abdomen will be much better. If you seek an in-person assessment by a plastic surgeon they should be able to give you a good idea of the required incision in your case.

Hello BRITT1213 in Whitehorse,
Thank you for your inquiry about alternatives to a traditional tummy tuck that can minimize scarring while addressing diastasis recti. Diastasis recti, the separation of the abdominal muscles, is a common issue, and there are indeed innovative surgical techniques that can help correct this with less scarring.
One such technique is the laparoscopic approach. This method involves making five small incisions across the abdomen, each about the size of a pencil eraser. Through these incisions, surgical instruments and a camera are inserted. The abdomen is then inflated with air, similar to routine laparoscopic surgeries like gallbladder removal. The rectus diastasis is repaired from the inside, using special sutures. Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. This approach offers the benefit of minimal scarring.
Another option is the open technique, which involves a smaller incision made in the lower abdomen, akin to a C-section scar. The incision is made in the pubic region, and dissection is carried up to the sternum. A long instrument, similar to a needle holder, is then used to plicate the rectus muscles, correcting the diastasis recti with a relatively small scar.
It's important to note that most patients with rectus diastasis also have loose skin and some excess fat, which is why traditional tummy tucks often involve removing these as well, necessitating a larger incision. However, if your primary concern is the rectus diastasis and you have minimal loose skin or excess fat, these minimally invasive surgical options could be ideal.
I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss these techniques and determine the best approach for your specific needs and goals.
Wishing you success on your journey to improved abdominal contour and health.
Sincerely,