Is this separation of linea alba? (Photo)

Question

10 months post op - 130lb 5”2 Squishy belly at the top

Jared Blau, MD · Answer

Thank you for the photo. This is a great result. The vertical line isn't a separation, it just represents the linea alba. Usually thin people like you show this best, which is what we are seeing. It's a sign of youth and health!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry about whether the observed condition is a separation of the linea alba. From your description, it seems there might be some confusion about the anatomical structures involved.
The linea alba, translating to "white line," is a fibrous structure running down the middle of the abdomen, marking the medial borders of the rectus abdominis muscles. It does not separate; rather, it's a distinct line that can become more pronounced, especially after certain abdominal procedures.
Your concern seems to be about a possible separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, often referred to as diastasis recti. This condition involves the widening of the gap between the two muscle bands of the rectus abdominis. To definitively diagnose this condition, an ultrasound or an MRI would be necessary.
If you've undergone a procedure like liposuction or a tummy tuck, surgeons often contour around the linea alba to enhance the vertical line and create an aesthetically pleasing abdominal profile. This procedure should not be confused with the separation of the muscles.
To clarify your situation, especially if you're uncertain about the nature of your postoperative results, I recommend discussing this with your surgeon and potentially considering a radiographic evaluation if there are concerns about muscle separation.
I hope this explanation provides clarity on your concern about the linea alba and rectus abdominis muscle separation. Best wishes on your postoperative journey.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the provided photo it appears that there is muscle separation above the umbilicus.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns.  It could be that full repair was not completed during surgery or that it has failed.  If you had a full tummy tuck, typically the abdominal wall is repaired both above and below the belly button.  With a mini tuck typically only the portion below the belly button is addressed.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To make a quality assessment on the outcome of a plastic surgery procedure we generally need to see a complete set of proper before and after pictures. I don’t see anything wrong with your abdomen or anything wrong with your linea alba.
Consider re-posting with a little more context in regards to what the problem is or what your concern is.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Is this separation of linea alba? (Photo)

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Is this separation of linea alba? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Concerns after tummy tuck

Answer: Concerns after tummy tuck

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