What Is Diastasis Recti and How Is It Fixed?

It’s no secret that pregnancy changes different parts of the body, and some changes are more welcome than others. The separation of the abdominal muscles, also known as diastasis recti, can lead to a number of problems, including a protruding belly and chronic back pain. At Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery, our staff understands that while diastasis recti is common after pregnancy, it’s not widely discussed or addressed.

So what is diastasis recti, and will a tummy tuck help? As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Phillip Dauwe frequently helps patients solve issues related to diastasis recti so they can feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies. Learn how to fix diastasis recti with tummy tuck surgery by reaching out to our team in Dallas, TX for a private consultation.

What is diastasis recti?

The abdominal muscles are held together with connective tissue, also called fascia. During pregnancy, the fascia stretches and spreads apart to make room for a growing baby. The fascia normally contracts back to its original position in the months after giving birth, but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes women experience weak muscles that remain stretched out, even with diet, exercise, and plenty of patience. This is what leads to diastasis recti.

How to know if you have diastasis recti

Diastasis recti usually looks like a bulging or protruding belly. This means that many women with diastasis recti still appear pregnant, even after having their last child. On its own, diastasis recti isn’t necessarily a cosmetic problem. It can lead to issues like abdominal weakness, lower back pain, hernia, stress incontinence, and digestive disorders. Sometimes, diastasis recti causes pelvic floor dysfunction, which results in pain during sexual intercourse.

So, how do you know if you have diastasis recti? Medical conditions, like separated abdominal muscles, can only be confirmed by a trusted medical doctor through a physical evaluation. During a consultation, Dr. Dauwe will assess the area and ask about your current symptoms and health history. The team at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery can then give you information about how to fix diastasis recti through tummy tuck surgery in Dallas, TX.

Will a tummy tuck help diastasis recti?

Some patients can help improve the symptoms associated with diastasis recti through simple exercises. However, common ab workouts, like crunches or planks, may actually further the separation of the muscles. This is why it is critical for patients to consult with an expert before attempting to treat diastasis recti on their own. Sometimes, surgical intervention is required for a complete repair. A tummy tuck can restore the area and relieve symptoms by bringing the muscles back together.

Tummy tuck surgery can be performed by itself or as part of a complete mommy makeover. In this procedure, Dr. Dauwe will tighten the abdominal muscles inside and out. There are many options that we consider during the process, all of which are discussed during the consultation. Based on the extensiveness of the issue, patients can choose from a mini, extended, or no-drain tummy tuck. A tummy tuck and mommy makeover are also designed to remove excess skin and fat for a slimmer and more contoured appearance.

How much will my diastasis recti surgerycost?

Some patients do not seek out the treatment they need because they are afraid of the cost. At the time of your appointment, Dr. Dauwe will create a custom treatment plan to address your unique needs and concerns. The caring team at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery will then estimate your out-of-pocket costs. Our clinic also makes the procedure easier to afford by accepting many different payment methods and giving patients guidelines about no-interest financing.

Schedule a tummy tuck consultation

Do you struggle with loose abdominal muscles and the problems it causes? At Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery, we are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of separated abdominal muscles. Our top surgical procedures include tummy tuck surgery and overall mommy makeovers that allow women to achieve their pre-pregnancy bodies once again. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe proudly uses the most modern tools and advanced technology available to ensure beautiful, natural-looking results. Learn how to know if you have diastasis recti by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Dauwe in Dallas, TX.