If you’ve ever struggled with a stubborn belly pooch, good news: You’re not alone. This issue is often caused by a condition known as diastasis recti. While there are a handful of nonsurgical ways to treat this common problem, they’re often temporary or unsuccessful. Tummy tuck surgery is the solution for many of our Austin, Texas, patients, fixing their diastasis recti directly and giving them slim, toned midsections.
Dr. Blagg has helped many men and women repair their muscles and enjoy a firmer, more contoured body. In the video below, he performs the procedure for a local mom who struggled with diastasis recti after giving birth to 10-pound babies.
What is diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti is a condition where the left and right abdominal muscles begin to separate from each other. This detachment creates a protruding bulge along the lower part of the abdomen—a problem commonly referred to as a “belly pooch.”
Why does diastasis recti occur, and who is likely to experience it?
Diastasis recti occurs when a large amount of consistent pressure is placed on the abdominal wall. This often happens during pregnancy as the weight of the baby strains the body. Diastasis recti can also be created by other things, such as significant weight fluctuations or improper form during an intensive exercise such as weight lifting. Beyond aesthetic appearances, diastasis recti can also potentially cause lower back pain and urinary incontinence.
How is diastasis recti repaired during a tummy tuck?
During a tummy tuck, a surgeon can directly fix the damaged abdominal wall. The muscles are stitched back together to give more support and create a firm, solid core. Surgery is the most direct, effective way to treat diastasis recti. It solves the issue by going directly to the problem: protruding muscles beneath the skin.
What effect does this repair have on the shape and appearance of the abdomen?
Tummy tuck patients can enjoy a tight, smooth midsection after their body contouring surgery. Once diastasis recti is treated by repairing the abdominals, there are no longer any protruding muscles to create a belly pooch. In addition to treating diastasis recti, tummy tuck surgery can also remove unwanted fat and loose, saggy skin. This surgery is an excellent way to sculpt many parts of the body and transform your figure.
Browse our before-and-after gallery to see examples of more tummy tuck transformations. If you struggle with diastasis recti and would like to learn more about your treatment options, please request a consultation online. You can also call our practice at (512) 244-1439 (Austin) or (512) 244-1444 (Round Rock).
Leave a Reply