Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck done in 2009, in 2012 I had lipo done all over and started to notice a weird bulge in my stomach. One surgeon I met with said I had a hernia. I went to my pcp who sent me to get a ct scan done. The results were I had Diastasis Recti. How does this even happen I’ve recently gained 40 lbs but the Diastasis Recti was diagnosed before I gained the weight. What can I do to fix it? Do I need another tummy tuck??? Also he totally screwed up my belly button

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cat214.
based on your photos, you look like a good candidate for a TT. Full tummy tuck should tighten your abdominal muscles and remove the excess skin. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon because 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Though uncommon muscle repair done during a tummy tuck can fail.  A revision would be necessary to correct it.  One option is to use bioabsorbable mesh to help strengthen the repair and prevent this from reoccurring.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

From the photos you provided, I would provide the following insights:It does appear that you have recurrence of your rectus diastasis.  Unfortunately, this can only be addressed surgically and will require you to effectively have another tummy tuck procedure.From the shadowing, it looks as if you have significant contour irregularities from your liposuction.  This too can only be addressed surgically and may require a combination of fat removal as well as grafting to try and achieve a more uniform appearance. Best to start by meeting with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to discuss your concerns and formulate a plan moving forward.  I hope that helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,-Gregory A Buford MD FACS PCEOBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Unfortunately with the diastasis you would need to re-do the tummy tuck in order to repair and tighten the muscle fascia.  Although very rare, this can occur.  Talk to your surgeon about revising your belly button scar at that time.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The answer is that this can happen.  It has not occurred in the thousands of tummy tucks I have performed. Diastasis recurrence is more closely associated with the type of plication technique used. Recommend that you schedule a in-office consultation with a board certified PS who can examine you and determine the best path forward.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

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Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

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Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

Answer: Can your tummy tuck come undone causing diastasis recti? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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