After tummy tuck & muscle repair, should I be able to get a finger in between abs when relaxed? (Photos)

Question

After a tummy tuck with muscle repair, should you be able to get a finger in between the abs when relaxed? Then if i tense the muscles come together and my fingers are still in the middle. The top of my abs seem solid and i can't do this but below tge belly button i can.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photos. After a tummy tuck with muscle repair (rectus diastasis repair), the degree of tightness in the abdominal muscles can vary slightly, especially in the area below the belly button. This is because the lower abdominal region tends to have more natural laxity and may not feel as tightly compressed as the upper abdomen.

Being able to fit a finger between the abdominal muscles when relaxed is not uncommon, particularly below the belly button. When you tense your muscles and they come together, this indicates that the repair is still holding, as the rectus muscles are functioning properly. However, if you notice a persistent gap larger than one finger width, a bulge, or symptoms such as discomfort or weakness, it could suggest a mild recurrence of separation or insufficient repair.

This is best evaluated in person by your plastic surgeon, who can assess whether the muscle repair is intact and functioning as expected. If the repair is holding but you are concerned about the appearance or feel of your lower abdomen, additional strengthening exercises, physical therapy, or a revision procedure might be options to explore.

If the area feels firm and shows no bulging or asymmetry, there is likely no immediate cause for concern. However, I encourage you to discuss this with your surgeon for clarity and reassurance.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

DearPractical453921,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
 Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Azita Madjidi, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

This is not how the result of a tummy tuck is evaluated, but in upright position. In a tummy tuck , only the fascia (layer around the muscle ) is tightened not the actual muscle. So if you lay back and relax, muscles are relaxed.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you are still experiencing separated abdominal muscles I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation.  It could be that the muscles weren't tightened adequately or the repair failed.  It is also possible that the repair was not done.  Your surgeon should be able to advise you.

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and including pictures.   There are several possibilities.  Your muscle repair wasn't performed. It was performed but the sutures broke or pulled through the tissues. Or, your muscles were just not tightened enough.  In any of these cases, unfortunately the only thing to do is to repeat the tummy tuck and do additional tightening.

After tummy tuck & muscle repair, should I be able to get a finger in between abs when relaxed? (Photos)

Answers (5)

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