Is this diastasis recti or hernia? Can you tell? (photos)

Question

I have a protruding stomach that goes away when laying flat. My belly button is off to the side and will not go back in. My belly causes pain when pushed on or bumped. My hips feel as if they are bruised and I cant lay flat. If I do I literally get stuck and look like a turtle. This happened after my second child. He sat very low and very far out. You can see my intestines move and hear and see my food digesting. Just want to be me again and play with my kids. All docs have different opinions

Bryson G. Richards, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photo and question.It appears that you have a ventral hernia, but it could be diastasis as well. You should consult with a general surgeon to rule out a hernia. Likely an abdominal CT will determine the extent of the hernia or diastasis. I'm sorry to hear your plight, but this condition can definitely be successfully treated.Best of luck!!- Dr. Bryson Richards

Paul Vitenas, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank
you very much for your question and photographs.  It is impossible to determine, without
performing a physical examination, whether or not you have a true hernia or a
diastasis.  I would strongly recommend that
you schedule a consultation with a general surgeon, and an abdominal CT scan,
to determine exactly what is going on.

Michelle Spring, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like you need a more thorough workup to find out what is going on.  A general surgeon should examine you, and an abdominal CT scan can help figure out what is going on.    You may need more of a reconstructive surgery to tighten up and/or repair your abdominal wall.    Best wishes,Dr. Michelle Spring

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photographs and questions.  I am sorry to hear about all of the symptoms your stomach is causing you.  From a first read and glance it sounds as if you have a hernia.  I would seek out a general surgeon in your area who can perform an in-person examination, which should diagnose your hernia, or if it is still unclear, a CT scan can be ordered to better look at your anatomy to see what may be taking place.  Best wishes.

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photographs. It is important to understand that pictures cannot take the place of an in-person examination. I would therefore recommend that you consult with either a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon or a Board Certified General Surgeon for an in-person examination. Either one of these individuals should be able to make the diagnosis. I hope this helps.Best wishes.

Is this diastasis recti or hernia? Can you tell? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Is this diastasis recti or hernia? Can you tell?

Answer: Is this diastasis recti or hernia? Can you tell?

Answer: Can you tell if this is diastasis recti or hernia ?

Answer: Can you tell if this is diastasis recti or hernia ?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is this diastasis recti or hernia? Can you tell? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Is this diastasis recti or hernia? Can you tell?

Answer: Is this diastasis recti or hernia? Can you tell?

Answer: Can you tell if this is diastasis recti or hernia ?

Answer: Can you tell if this is diastasis recti or hernia ?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.