Can the Muscle Be Repaired Without a Tummy Tuck?

Yes it can be done and with a cosmetic low incision. I have done this a number of times using endoscopic techniques. While I do this as a cosmetic procedure patients also get the functional benefits as well. It take about 2 hours and is an out patient procedure. Good Luck!

Muscle and anterior abdominal wall can be performed without an abdominoplasty or "tummy tuck". This can be performed in two ways. One way to repair the anterior abdominal wall is to make an incision just below the belt line, similar to a mini-tummy tuck. This can allow direct exposure to the anterior abdominal wall and allow for abdominal wall repair. Another way to repair the abdominal wall is with a laparoscope. This would require several small incisions made on the anterior abdomen and then your abdomen is inflated. This allows excellent exposure and visualization of the abdominal wall. Special instruments are introduced into the abdomen and the abdomen is repaired from the "inside". Due to your age and prednisone history, this may be a better surgery. However, you must find a specialist. There are a few surgeons who perform the abdominal wall repair in this fashion.

An exam should be able to determine what would be best for you.  Diastasis can be repaired without a tummy tuck.  Its also possible you may have a hernia.  A general surgeon should be able to answer that for you after an examination.  Diastasis usually does not cause pain.

It is possible to repair the diastasis without a tummy tuck, but a problem may occur with buckling of the abdominal skin when the muscles, which have attachments to the skin, are drawn together. 

Typically, there is not pain associated with a diastasis, and it sounds like you have had this for years without trouble. You might do well to consult with your primary physician so that the possible causes of your pain can be narrowed down. Doing a larger operation that would not address your symptoms would not be in anyone's interests. Thank you for your question, and best wishes.