Tummy Tuck

A Crash Course on Diastasis Recti

Diastasis Recti

Those familiar with cosmetic surgery may recognize diastasis recti as a common condition that can be addressed with a tummy tuck. However, many of us are unfamiliar with the condition itself, what causes it and how an abdominoplasty provides relief.

What Is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti is the separation of the abdominal muscles. The roots of the word come from the Latin “Diastasis” (separation) and “recti” (referring to the abdominal muscles, or rectus abdominis). This condition simply refers to the stretching of the connective tissue that holds the two halves of our abdominal wall together.

Though not life-threatening, distended abdominal muscles can cause discomfort, throw off your natural figure and may lead to complications. Some cases of diastasis recti can be resolved naturally, but more severe cases may require a tummy tuck.

Causes of Diastasis Recti

Abdominal separation most commonly occurs during pregnancy. As the uterus expands to accommodate your growing baby, internal pressure is placed on your belly and abdominal wall. When your baby gets big enough, the left and right sides of your abdominal muscle wall will sometimes need to separate from each other and stretch out to make room.

Once your baby arrives, you’re left with these distended and stretched out tissues that sometimes can’t repair themselves. This condition can also occur from extreme weight gain or improper weightlifting techniques that strain the abdominal muscles.

An abdominoplasty allows your surgeon to repair the stretched out ligament tissues in your abdomen and restructure your abdominal muscles to their original position. This can do wonders for your appearance and allows your core muscles to work together to function in a healthy way. It’s not all about appearance—it’s about helping you become healthy and feel great about your body.

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December 17, 2015
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December 17, 2015