What are my options for Diastasis Recti caused by liposuction?

Question

In August of 2018 I had Cool Sculpting, which caused Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia. In March of 2019 I was provided liposuction as a remedy. This seems to have caused Diastasis Recti. I then had umbilical hernia surgery in November 2021, which seemed to have worsened the Diastasis Recti. It has taken a toll on my self confidence. I have a barrel shape and the fat is intra-abdominal with very little loose skin. Do I have any options? I work out and eat pretty well but can't seem to lose weight.

Daniel Careaga, MD · Answer

Diastasis is a weakness of the abdominal wall, which can be caused by pregnancy, weight, fluctuations, aging, and of course genetics. Some people have three or four children, and have no diastasis. Some people don’t even have children and have one. Liposuction cannot cause a diastasis. What life production can do, however, is unmask a diastasis. What that means is is that if there is a layer of fat over the diastasis it is “hidden”. When that patient undergoes liposuction, the muscle separation will be more obvious. Think of if the fitted sheet on your bed being wrinkled. If there is a thick comforter over it, you can’t tell but if it’s just a thin sheet over it, you will be able to see all of the imperfections. When I’m examining a patient for a liposuction consultation, I am always checking for a hidden diastasis. If there is one, I offer the option of repairing via a tummy tuck for a mini tummy tuck.

Andrew Ray, DO · Answer

Good news is that liposuction does not cause worsening of diastasis recti. Repairing the hernia and tightening up the middle the abdomen can cause a paridoxical worsening of the diastasis above and below the old hernia. There are many options for weight loss and management of loose skin. For weight loss diet and excercise, many patients have had great success with semiglutide therapy and of course if you qualify bariatric surgery. Once you are at a goal function and physical status there are several surgical options for management of the loose skin.

Adam Kinal, MD · Answer

Liposuction removes undesired fat cells. You likely had diastasis before liposuction, and now it is visible. I recommend seeking several opinions from Board Certified Surgeons who specialize in this procedure to evaluate you in person. Without a proper in-person evaluation an answer cannot be given to what may be going on. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear pgh.chris,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. 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

What are my options for Diastasis Recti caused by liposuction?

Answers (4)

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