Is it generally the case 'some report increased strength & control' in their core?

Diastasis recti repair during a tummy tuck isn’t really designed to improve strength. It can improve your appearance and the function of your ab muscles, but it may or may not improve strength. Some patients have reported that it helped improve strength, but there is no guarantee.

Repair of a significant diastasis (ie a three finger separation or more which is very rare) gives more support to the core but I’m not sure if that can be characterized as more strength.

Hello, some studies have suggested that abdominal strength is improved after rectus diastasis repair, but further research is needed with large, well-designed investigations. Anecdotally several of my patients have reported that they feel stronger or have less back pain, but I don't make promises about the functional outcome. In my experience the cosmetic and functional outcomes are unique to each patient.

Hello Generous20411,

Thank you for your question regarding whether diastasis recti (DR) repair can improve core strength and control.

Diastasis recti, characterized by a separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, is common after multiple pregnancies. This condition can significantly impact core strength and stability. The surgical repair of DR, often performed during a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), involves suturing the separated muscles back together, thus restoring the integrity of the abdominal wall.

Based on various clinical experiences and patient feedback, many individuals do report an improvement in core strength and control after DR repair. Here are some key points:

Restoration of Muscle Integrity: By bringing the separated muscles back together, the surgery can restore the normal anatomy and function of the abdominal wall. This can lead to improved muscle activation and engagement during physical activities.

Enhanced Core Stability: A repaired abdominal wall can provide better support to the spine and pelvis, leading to improved overall core stability. This stability can enhance performance in activities that require core strength, such as lifting, running, and various forms of exercise.

Symptomatic Relief: Many patients experience relief from symptoms associated with DR, such as back pain and pelvic instability, which can indirectly improve their ability to perform core exercises and activities.

However, it is important to note that individual results can vary. Factors such as the extent of the muscle separation, the patient's overall health, and adherence to post-operative rehabilitation play crucial roles in the outcome.

While many patients report significant improvements, it is also possible that some may not notice a marked difference in core strength and control. It is essential to have realistic expectations and discuss your specific goals and concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can provide personalized advice based on your condition.

In summary, while there is no guarantee, many individuals do report increased strength and control in their core after DR repair. It is generally the case, but individual results may vary.

I hope this helps to answer your question regarding the potential benefits of diastasis recti repair.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

The answer to your question is Yes, When we repair the diastasis, the recti muscles are brought back to the midline or center, thus restoring the normal anatomical alignment or position which maximizes their function and strength. So, you should have increased strength of your core after the repair.

Hi, thank you for sharing this question. Generally, the diastasis repair will help strengthen your core because the muscles will function better in their anatomic position rather than their current position.

With diastasis or separation, the rectus muscles and core may be weaker.

Repairing this during a tummy tuck by bringing them closer to midline should improve muscle contraction and efficiency.
After healing time, strengthening should improve in most patients. (Yes, some patients may experience less improvement).

Further discussion with your/a plastic surgeon is recommended.

Because of scarring, not all women gain improvement in core strength, even though they look flatter and better. Doing EMSculpt will increase muscle tone and tightness and greatly improve core strength.

Once your muscle separation is repaired and you are fully healed from surgery it is likely you will note improvement to your core strength. You will want to wait to resume dedicated abdominal/core work until cleared by your surgeon to do so. While increased strength and control of the core is not the aim of a tummy tuck, it is often a nice side benefit.

I don’t think you should expect a tummy tuck to increase muscle strength. If anything the procedure can weaken your core muscles because of pain with movement after surgery and potential limited range of motion due to pain and post operative stiffness.
The primary reason for the procedure is aesthetic and secondary effects are more commonly negative rather than positive.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD