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What Is Diastasis Recti?

When you have diastasis recti, it will usually develop as a sizable gap that runs down the center of your abdominal muscles. If the gap between your strengths is more than two fingers wide, it’s diastasis recti. The condition most commonly develops in women in the later stages of pregnancy but can also occur after childbirth, in newborns, and in the elderly. Individuals experiencing diastasis recti are at increased risk of developing a hernia, experiencing urinary incontinence, and dealing with back pain.

When Do You Need Surgery for Diastasis Recti?

Not everyone who develops diastasis recti necessarily needs to have the condition surgically corrected. For some patients, diastasis recti can gradually heal independently with the help of abdominal exercises and/or physical therapy. However, if the condition negatively impacts your quality of life and doesn’t seem to improve, diastasis recti surgery is likely the best option.

How Is Diastasis Recti Surgery Performed?

Typically, surgery will correct diastasis recti by stitching the abdominal muscles back together. This procedure is often performed as part of a tummy tuck. Many women who have gone through pregnancy experience loss, sagging abdominal skin, and separated abdominal muscles. Combining a tummy tuck and diastasis recti repair, those individuals can treat their condition while achieving a firmer, more toned midsection.

Benefits of Diastasis Recti Surgery

If you’re experiencing a separation of your abdominal muscles, diastasis recti surgery can provide you with some or all of the following benefits:

  • Corrects the gap between your abdominal muscles
  • Eliminates the unsightly bulge caused by diastasis recti
  • Creates a slimmer, more toned abdomen
  • Strengthens the pelvic floor and alleviates urinary incontinence
  • Alleviates lower back pain
  • Reduces the likelihood of developing a hernia
  • Strengthens the abdominal muscles
  • Increased self-confidence

What Should I Expect During the Surgery?

Before you undergo surgery to repair your diastasis recti, the first step will be to have a consultation with Dr. Shafa. He will examine your abdomen and ask you questions about your symptoms. He’ll also thoroughly discuss your treatment options to help you decide whether surgery is best for your situation. Dr. Shafa will have questions about your medical history and current health to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure. If you decide to move forward with surgical repair, the doctor will work with you to devise a custom-tailored treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

Diastasis recti surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. The specifics of the surgery will depend on your personal treatment plan and whether or not you’ve chosen to undergo a tummy tuck. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr. Shafa will make the necessary incisions in your abdomen. He will remove excess skin and/or tissue before carefully using sutures to reattach your abdominal muscles if necessary. To complete the procedure, he will stitch the incisions closed and apply bandages and drainage tubes to the area. Depending on the details of your surgery, the procedure will likely take two to four hours to complete. You should be able to leave a few hours after surgery, but you’ll need someone else to drive you home.

How Long Is the Recovery Time?

After your diastasis recti surgery, Dr. Shafa will provide thorough instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process. Resting frequently for the first couple of weeks will be essential, but you should start taking light walks around the house as soon as you feel up to it. Most patients can return to work after approximately two to three weeks, but you’ll need to wait between six and eight weeks before doing any heavy lifting or engaging in strenuous exercise. You must also wear a unique compression garment for several weeks after your procedure.

Am I a Candidate for Diastasis Recti Surgery?

Adults experiencing the symptoms of diastasis recti could be good candidates for diastasis recti repair surgery. To be an ideal candidate for the procedure, you should:

  • Be in generally good physical health
  • Have a case of diastasis recti that doesn’t seem to be healing on its
  • own
  • Have had at least one year to heal since giving birth
  • Have realistic expectations for the procedure
  • Be a non-smoker
  • Not be currently pregnant or nursing

Why Choose Dr. Shafa for Your Diastasis Recti Treatment?

To ensure a smooth, successful diastasis recti surgery, you must choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon. Dr. Brian Shafa is a board-eligible plastic surgeon known for his attention to detail, precision, and superb, natural-looking results. He understands that every patient has unique needs and goals, so he puts in the time and effort to get to know each person he works with. He and his team will ensure that your diastasis recti treatment is carefully tailored to your situation and provides exceptional results. If you’re ready to schedule a consultation, give our office a call today.

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