After pregnancy or significant weight changes, a persistent abdominal bulge is not always caused by stubborn fat. Diastasis recti occurs when the two sides of the rectus abdominis move farther apart as the connective tissue between them stretches. At Northwestern Plastic Surgery, Gregory Dumanian, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon who lectures nationally on abdominal wall repair, evaluates this concern when planning tummy tuck surgery in Chicago. Identifying whether your abdominal shape is related to muscle separation, loose skin, excess fat, or a combination helps determine which approach makes sense.
What Is Diastasis Recti?
The rectus abdominis muscles run vertically along the front of the abdomen. During pregnancy, the connective tissue between them stretches to accommodate the growing uterus. Significant changes in body size can also place stress on the abdominal wall.
When the muscles remain separated, the abdomen may continue to look rounded or protrude even after weight loss. A physical examination can help distinguish this from fullness caused primarily by fat or loose skin.
Why Can’t Liposuction Repair Diastasis Recti?
Liposuction removes localized fat beneath the skin, but it does not tighten the abdominal wall or correct separation between the rectus muscles.
Someone with localized fat, firm skin, and good abdominal wall support may benefit from liposuction alone. When stretched skin or muscle separation is contributing to the contour of the midsection, a different form of body contouring may be more appropriate.
How Can a Tummy Tuck Repair Diastasis Recti?
When muscle separation is present, a tummy tuck can include internal sutures that tighten the abdominal wall and bring the rectus muscles closer toward the midline. Excess abdominal skin and fat may also be removed as part of the procedure.
For some patients, abdominoplasty is included in a mommy makeover when pregnancy has affected more than one area of the body. Future pregnancy or substantial weight changes can stretch the tissues again, so patients often discuss family plans and weight stability before surgery.
Do All Cases of Diastasis Recti Need Surgery?
No. The amount of separation, your symptoms, skin laxity, medical history, and personal goals all play a role. Some people may first benefit from appropriate core rehabilitation or guidance from a qualified physical therapist.
When the separation persists or is accompanied by significant loose skin, an examination with a plastic surgeon can clarify whether surgical repair may be appropriate.
Discuss Diastasis Recti and Tummy Tuck Surgery in Chicago
If your abdomen still protrudes despite weight loss or exercise, the first step is determining whether fat, loose skin, abdominal wall separation, or several factors are responsible. Contact us at Northwestern Plastic Surgery in Chicago or call 312-695-6022 to meet with Dr. Dumanian and discuss what your anatomy may require.