Body surgery
Diastasis Recti Repair
Diastasis recti repair restores core strength and abdominal contour after pregnancy or significant weight change.
Overview
Diastasis recti is the separation of the abdominal muscles that commonly occurs during pregnancy. The gap between the left and right rectus muscles creates a visible bulge, weakens the core, and can contribute to back pain and poor posture. No amount of exercise can fully close this gap once it's formed.
Surgical repair brings the muscles back together, restoring core function and creating a flatter abdominal profile. The procedure is often performed as part of a tummy tuck but can be done on its own for patients with good skin elasticity.
Who it's for
The right candidate.
- Women with muscle separation after pregnancy
- Patients experiencing core weakness or back pain related to diastasis
- Women who have not seen improvement with physical therapy
- Patients planning future pregnancies
Technique
How it's done.
Repair Diastasis Recti Without A Tummy Tuck
Dr. Cassileth uses her extensive experience in abdominal wall reconstruction and advanced surgical techniques to offer patients who are candidates the opportunity to repair their abdominal separation without adding any new scars.
Abdominal Muscle Repair Through C-Section Scar
For some postpartum women who delivered via cesarean section (C-section), diastasis recti surgery can be performed through the existing C-section scar. This approach allows Dr. Cassileth to repair the abdominal muscles without creating a new visible incision. During the procedure, the medial sides of the diastasis recti abdominis are carefully sewn together to close the gap and restore core function. This method of diastasis recti surgery is ideal for women at a healthy weight with little to no loose or excess skin in the abdominal area. It's a great option for those seeking muscle repair with minimal additional scarring. Dr. Cassileth can determine during a consultation whether this approach is right for your anatomy and goals.
Umbilical Diastasis Recti Repair
This type of diastasis recti surgery involves repairing the abdominal muscles through a small incision made around the belly button. For patients without a C-section scar, this umbilical approach can be a discreet and effective option. Once healed, the incision is nearly invisible. Ideal candidates are individuals at a healthy weight who struggle with the appearance or discomfort of separated abdominal muscles. Like other forms of diastasis recti surgery, this method works best for those without excess or loose skin around the abdomen. However, this technique isn’t suitable for everyone. Women with very small or shallow belly buttons might not be good candidates for this type of diastasis recti surgery. Dr. Cassileth can determine during a consultation whether this approach fits your needs.
Lipoabdominoplasty
For patients who have loose skin and hold significant excess weight in their midsection, lipoabdominoplasty is a great procedure that provides dramatic improvement. A lipoabdominoplasty creates a lean silhouette while repairing Diastasis Recti. This procedure requires a typical abdominoplasty incision at or below the bikini line and also offers significant reshaping that can change the entire shape of the torso. A lipoabdominoplasty is similar to a tummy tuck, but extensive liposuction is performed to remove fat before the muscles are repaired and the skin is recontoured. If you struggle with excess skin and fat in the midsection and you would like to achieve dramatic results, lipoabdominoplasty may be right for you.
What to expect
From consultation to recovery.
Before Surgery
Consultation — Physical exam to assess degree of separation.
Surgical plan — Determine if repair alone is sufficient or if tummy tuck is recommended.
During Surgery
Muscle repair — The separated muscles are sutured together along the midline.
Skin tightening — If combined with tummy tuck, excess skin is removed.
After Surgery
Recovery — Core activity restricted for 6 weeks. Light walking encouraged immediately.
Results — Flatter abdomen, improved core strength.
Follow-up — Multiple follow-up visits with Dr. Cassileth and her team to confirm you are healing well.
Insurance
Read about coverage & financing →Diastasis repair may be covered by insurance when documented as medically necessary (hernias, functional impairment). Our team can help determine eligibility.
FAQ
Common questions.
How Soon Can I Work Out After Abdominal Muscle Repair?
It is very important to ease into working out in a way that encourages the abdominal muscles to heal properly. Recovery after Diastasis Recti surgery will require you to refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for four weeks after your procedure. Dr. Cassileth will advise you on how and when to perform abdominal exercises, such as planks, in the month after your surgery.
Why Did Another Doctor Tell Me That I Would Need A Tummy Tuck?
Every doctor has their own preferences when it comes to surgical recommendations. A surgeon will take your concerns and goals into consideration, but they will also consider their own experience and skills. In addition to her extensive plastic and cosmetic surgery experience, Dr. Cassileth has a background in reconstructive abdominal surgery that gives her an in-depth understanding of the abdominal muscles and surrounding structures. She is also devoted to helping women look and feel their best with more minimally invasive procedures.
How Do I Know If I Have Diastasis Recti?
A medical professional can tell you for sure if you have this condition, but you can get an idea by doing this: Lie on your back and slowly try to do a situp, while supporting your head to look down at your belly, then put your other hand along the middle-top of your abdominal muscles. If you can feel a gap bigger than 1 to 2 finger widths between the two sides of your abs, this could indicate Diastasis Recti.
How Do I Know Which Procedure Is Right For Me?
If you're in good shape but can’t get rid of the “mommy pooch” caused by muscle separation, a minimally invasive diastasis recti surgery might be a good fit. If you also have loose skin, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) may offer better results. For those with extra skin and fat, a lipoabdominoplasty combines both fat removal and skin tightening. A consultation with Dr. Cassileth will help you understand the best option for your body and goals.
Sources
Cited research.
- 1Sperstad JB, Tennfjord MK, Hilde G, Ellström-Engh M, Bø K. Diastasis recti abdominis during pregnancy and 12 months after childbirth: prevalence, risk factors and report of lumbopelvic pain. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(17):1092-1096. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2016-096065
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