Pregnancy is undeniably beautiful, but the physical changes such as excess skin, bulging belly and stretch marks that come with it can be challenging. One common issue post-pregnancy, that is often not discussed, is diastasis recti – the separation of the abdominal muscles, also known as the ‘6-pack.’ This is typically caused by pregnancy, but can also be caused by excessive intra-abdominal pressure, poor posture, or rapid weight gain.
Diastasis Recti Surgery
Diastasis Recti Surgery stitches back together the separated ‘six pack’ abdominal muscles, helping to reduce the appearance of a tummy ‘pooch’.
At a Glance
Surgery time
2-3 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthetic
Hospital stay
One night
Recovery
2 weeks scar healing; 8 weeks before returning to exercise
What is Diastasis Recti Surgery
Diastasis Recti Surgery is a surgical procedure to repair the separation of the rectus abdominus (“six-pack”) muscles. It involves stitching the separated muscles back together, which helps to reduce the appearance of a “pooch” or bulge in the abdomen. It can also help to improve core strength and posture.
Understanding the causes, benefits and risks can make you feel more confident about your decision to proceed with surgery. This guide helps you explore the key factors affecting diastasis recti surgery.
Causes
Diastasis recti is typically caused by pregnancy, but can also be caused by excessive intra-abdominal pressure, poor posture, or rapid weight gain. If you’re a new mum struggling to regain your pre-bulge tummy, diastasis surgery may be the answer.
Benefits
- Improved abdominal muscle strength
- Improved posture
- Reduced discomfort and pain
- Improved physical appearance
- Improved confidence
- Improved core stability and function
- Improved sexual function
- Reduced risk of hernia
Risks
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks that will be discussed prior to your surgery. These include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Persistent muscle weakness
- Poor or delayed healing
- Recurrence
Who is a good candidate?
If you’ve developed an abdominal bulge that isn’t improving despite diet and exercise or have a bulge despite a slim frame, and experience signs of core muscle weakness such as lower back pain or difficulty with getting up or lifting, then diastasis recti may be the reason and a surgical repair would address these issues.
Understanding what diastasis recti surgery involves, can help you feel more confident and prepared for your journey. The procedure is carefully planned to achieve the results you desire, whilst keeping your safety and comfort paramount. From your initial consultation to recovery, each step is designed to offer a smooth experience. Below, we outline what you can expect from the process.
Related Conditions
One common issue post-pregnancy is tummy muscle separation or diastasis recti.
Excess loose, abdominal skin is sometimes known as a ‘belly apron’.
Body
Tummy Pouch
A tummy pouch, also known as a pooch, or belly apron actually has a technical name; a panniculus.
Body
Tummy Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are indented skin marks often found on the tummy, hips, breasts or buttocks.
‘Love handles’ is an affectionate term for the accumulation of excess fat that sits around your hips
Body
Mummy Rejuvenation
Doing something about your post-pregnancy body is something you can choose to do for you
Book a Consultation
Take the first step toward your ideal look by booking a consultation with our expert surgeon.
Consultation
If you are considering diastasis recti surgery, it’s essential to choose an experienced and reputable surgeon. Mr Ridha, lead at HR Plastic Surgery, has extensive experience in diastasis recti surgery having performed well over 200 procedures.
He is on the GMC specialist register for plastic surgery and uses advanced surgical techniques to minimise scarring and optimise results. Passionate about helping people achieve the best possible outcome, he takes the time to thoroughly explain the procedure and answer any questions or concerns his patients may have. London and Hertfordshire residents can contact us for more information.
Procedure
This condition is usually associated with excess loose abdominal skin and so, often combined with an abdominoplasty. The abdominal wall muscles are exposed and the separated rectus abdominus muscles bought back together, eliminating the gap, using sutures. The incision is then closed or if combined with an abdominoplasty the excess skin is removed prior to closure using absorbable sutures.
Recovery
An abdominal support garment must be worn for six to eight weeks after surgery, and any strenuous exercise or lifting avoided to allow the area to heal.
Procedure Results
The choice to have Diastasis Recti Surgery is a personal decision. It can be useful to see previous before and after results to understand what you can expect and help you to make up your mind.
Pricing?
Prices from
£9100
Cost varies depending on the surgeon’s experience, the specific technique used, and the complexity of the procedure. At HR Plastic Surgery, we provide transparent pricing and flexible payment plans to help make diastasis recti surgery more affordable. Our team will discuss the cost and available financing options at your initial consultation. You can find more on our pricing and payment plans page*.
FAQs
Can I get diastasis recti surgery on NHS?
Divarication repair is not routinely available on the NHS.
Does diastasis recti surgery permanently repair separated abdominal muscles?
Once repaired and given the appropriate healing time, repair should be permanent. However, if the underlying cause is not addressed (such as excessive abdominal pressure or weak core muscles) then the separation may redevelop.
Does diastasis recti surgery remove excess skin and fat, and reposition the belly button to assist with a flat stomach result?
Yes, if the procedure is performed in combination as part of an abdominoplasty.
Is diastasis repair surgery the same as a mini tummy tuck or full tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty surgery)?
No. A mini tummy tuck or full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) are procedures performed to remove the excess skin and fat in the abdomen. A divarication repair is performed to realign the separated rectus abdominus muscles. The procedures can, however, be performed simultaneously.
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