9 years post op of Full Tummy Tuck, but Diastasis Recti has returned. Was the original Tummy Tuck improperly done?

Question

I had a tummy tuck 9 years ago (after having twins). The surgeon repaired my diastasis recti but it has returned. It is about 4.5 cm. I don't understand how this happened. I thought the repair would be permanent. I have maintained my weight since the original TT and work out. Was the original TT improperly done or is this expected after several years? Is a repeat TT riskier? Thanks.

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

Your muscle wall can stretch over time creating a rounding of the abdomen. This is not an indication that the original surgery was done incorrectly. Sometimes this can be improved with abdominal core exercises. Other times, surgery to tighten the muscles again is necessary, but this may not require a complete redo of the tummy tuck.

Erik Hoy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  I'm sorry to hear of your trouble so long after abdominoplasty. It is tough to give specifics without photos, your record, or an exam.  The best person to give you insight to this is your initial surgeon, provided they are board-certified in plastic surgery.  If not, you should seek the consultation of one.  If so, then an exam and discussion could help elucidate whether the problem is one with the suture repair having absorbed, or whether your tissues were thinned after twins and did not support the repair over time.This could be investigated and repaired with a secondary abdominoplasty.  There is a higher risk of wound healing problems or problems with blood flow to the skin, but this risk should be discussed with your surgeon vs the benefits of the surgery.  Best regards,-Erik Hoy, M.D.

9 years post op of Full Tummy Tuck, but Diastasis Recti has returned. Was the original Tummy Tuck improperly done?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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9 years post op of Full Tummy Tuck, but Diastasis Recti has returned. Was the original Tummy Tuck improperly done?

Answers (2)

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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.