Most people get a tummy tuck for cosmetic reasons. They want to decrease the size of their abdominal area or to tighten loose skin from past weight loss or a previous pregnancy. However, some patients have a more serious issue to repair during tummy tuck surgery called diastasis recti.
Here's what you need to know about diastasis recti and how a tummy tuck can help you.
What is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti occurs when the two sides of the abdominal wall expand outward due to weakened muscles in between them and do not return to their previous position. This results in an outward bulge of the stomach which may be visible through clothing or when performing certain activities such as sit-ups or planks. It is more common among pregnant women due to the pressure that pregnancy places on the abdominal muscles, but it can also occur in men and non-pregnant women.
The muscles and connective tissue need to be repaired for the abdomen to return to its normal position again. No amount of sit-ups can repair the torn muscles.
How Can a Tummy Tuck Help?
A tummy tuck (also known as abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen for cosmetic reasons. However, the surgeon can also stitch the loose abdominal muscles back together, helping to reduce the appearance of diastasis recti.
What Is the Recovery Following a Tummy Tuck?
After undergoing a tummy tuck for diastasis recti, you must take it easy. Strenuous activity will need to be avoided while your incision heals and the muscles of your abdominal wall heal and adjust to their new position. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to safely move and exercise without damaging your results from the surgery.
Do You Need to Wrap Your Stomach After a Tummy Tuck?
Most patients will not need to wrap or bind their stomach after a tummy tuck. However, binding can give extra support and correct your posture while you heal from the tummy tuck. Wearing compression shorts may also be helpful during this time.
For those suffering from diastasis recti, a tummy tuck may be an effective way to repair damaged abdominal muscles and improve overall shape and posture. While not all cases of diastasis recti require surgery for successful treatment, consulting with your doctor about whether a tummy tuck could benefit you will help determine if it's something you should consider pursuing further.
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