Can I get a muscle repair without a tummy tuck?

Question

Hi Doctors! I’ve recently had 360 lipo, arms & chin lipo and a bbl, however I’ve now realised I need muscle repair (I’ve had 3 babies). So I’ve been told multiple times that I need muscle repair but I don’t have enough loose skin for a TT and I’ve just had lipo so there’s no more fat to be taken away to cause the skin to hang further. What are my options please? Is there a way to get my muscle repaired without a TT? Thanks in advance x

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The diastasis can be repaired with or without tummy tuck. Unfortunately, no amount of exercise or physical therapy will bring the muscles back together. A very small diastasis repair can be performed through a smaller incision than a TT.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is possible to repair abdominal muscle separation without removing fat or loose skin. Just let your surgeon know what you’d like to do and they’ll determine whether it’s possible.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

You need at least a mini tummy tuck to have the muscles repaired, even if very little skin is removed. The umbi float method allows access for a full muscle repair, and the belly button can be re-attached in its original location without an external scar.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Nae's mummy,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, it is possible to do only muscle repair. 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

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to undergo a muscle repair procedure without a tummy tuck. Abdominal muscle repair, often referred to as diastasis recti repair, is a surgical procedure to tighten and strengthen the abdominal muscles. It is commonly performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck, but it can also be done as a standalone procedure for individuals who don’t need the excess skin removal and other aesthetic improvements that a tummy tuck offers. You should consult with a plastic surgeon who offers this procedure to discuss your specific needs and options.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you can find a surgeon that will repair the muscle using the scope, it can be done. However, once repaired and the abdomen is flat, there may be excess skin which can only be addressed with the tuck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to do muscle repair without removing fat or skin.  Speak with your board certified plastic surgeon about your goals for surgery.  If you only have minimal skin laxity that could be addressed in the form of a mini tuck perhaps.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

You can repair the abdominal muscles without performing a tummy tuck by making an incision around the belly button and elevating the skin off of the abdominal wall and then placing permanent sutures to re-approximate the vertical rectus muscles and bring them back to their normal position. I personally don't perform this operation because I was never happy the way the skin sat back down but I certainly know many colleagues who perform this operation and are satisfied with their results so I would make sure you see a board certified plastic surgeon who is comfortable with this technique.

Can I get a muscle repair without a tummy tuck?

Answers (8)

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