Posted: May 16, 2016
During pregnancy, the two large parallel bands of muscles in the abdomen (recti abdominis) stretch to accommodate the expansion of the uterus. For many women, in the later stages of pregnancy these muscles will separate and create a condition called diastasis recti. There is no way to fully prevent this condition, although it may actually be worsened by aggressive abdominal exercises during the first and second trimesters. These same exercises performed postpartum may also fail to restore strength to the abdomen, making diastasis recti near impossible to correct without the assistance of a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Greenwood plastic surgeon Dr. Ted Vaughn can correct diastasis recti through tummy tuck surgery. With this procedure, abdominal muscles are brought back together and reattached at the center – serving the dual function of restoring core integrity and contouring the waist. Once these muscles are reattached, the problems their separation brought about, such as lower back pain, will naturally dissipate as strength and ideal shape return.
Tummy tuck surgery is often included in the mommy makeover procedure to address diastasis recti along with excess skin, stubborn fat deposits, and stretch marks throughout the abdominal area. However, tummy tuck surgery may serve as a standalone option for many women as well. This is something that can be discussed in greater detail during your initial consultation at our Greenwood, South Carolina office.
Diastasis recti is commonly marked by a bulge in the middle of the abdomen where the recti abdominis meet. If you have noticed this bulge after pregnancy or if symptoms such as lower back pain have become an issue, please contact Piedmont Plastic Surgery to schedule a tummy tuck consultation today. Appointments can also be made at our Greenwood, South Carolina office by calling 864-223-0505.
