Loose Skin, Muscle Separation or Fat? What is Wrong with my Tummy?

The answer is . . . It depends on the condition of your rectus abdominis muscle, the vertical muscle in the middle of your abdomen. It functions much the same as how shoe laces work in a shoe. If your rectus abdominis muscles are intact (tightened), congratulations! – you may only need exercise to firm your tummy.

However, if your rectus abdominis muscles are separated, you can only firm up your tummy with a repair of the muscle, or a tummy tuck. Since your muscle is separated, no amount of exercise can tighten that gap in the muscle. Instead, it must be stitched together.

Watch my video to help determine if you just need more exercise or if what you really need is a tummy tuck. Then get in touch with a board certified plastic surgeon for a consult!

Based on your photo, it appears to be a combination of Loose Skin, Muscle Separation and Fat. An in person examination will be helpful. Consult in person with 3 board certified plastic surgeons to understand your options, and choose the surgeon/surgical plan that best meets your needs/objectives.