What is Divarication of recti (Diastasis Recti) Muscle Separation
How Can a Tummy Tuck Surgery Help to correct it?
Have you ever noticed a lower tummy bulge, that just won’t go away no matter how many hours you spend in Gym, How many crunches, planks, or diets you try? It’s not always about stubborn fat—it might be a condition called diastasis recti. Divarication of recti (also known as diastasis recti) is characterized by a widening of the linea alba with lateral displacement of the rectus abdominis muscles. This condition is common during pregnancy or with significant weight gain and is distinct from an abdominal hernia as it does not involve a fascial defect. This abdominal separation isn’t just cosmetic—it can affect posture core strength, and even cause discomfort.Fortunately, tummy tuck surgery in Mumbai, offers an effective solution to address both the appearance and functional aspects of this condition. Understanding the root causes of diastasis recti is crucial because it helps in managing and treating the condition effectively. Here are the most common reasons:
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the body releases hormones that loosen the connective tissue in the abdomen to make space for the growing baby. As the uterus expands, it pushes against the abdominal wall, stretching the muscles. While this is natural, in some cases, the muscles do not return to their original position after childbirth, leaving a visible gap.
Rapid Weight Gain or Loss: Gaining weight quickly, especially around the belly area, can put tremendous pressure on the abdominal muscles. Similarly, losing weight too rapidly may leave the skin and muscles loose, unable to retract properly. This repeated stress weakens the core and can lead to diastasis recti.
Improper Exercise: Exercises like crunches, sit-ups, or heavy lifting done with poor form can make diastasis recti worse. When too much pressure is placed on the abdominal wall, it can cause or widen the muscle gap instead of strengthening the core.
Genetics: Some people may naturally have weaker connective tissues, making them more prone to developing diastasis recti.
While mild cases might improve with core exercises, severe diastasis recti typically requires surgical intervention. This is where tummy tuck surgery comes into play.
- A persistent belly bulge even after postpartum recovery or weight loss.
- Constantly lower back pain and poor posture.
- Core weakness affecting daily activities.
- Visible muscle separation or a trench-like gap when performing core exercises.
- Your belly bulges even after exercise and dieting.
- You have loose, sagging skin that won’t tighten naturally.
- Cases where the diastasis exceeds 3 cm and leads to significant functional impairment or disability.
- The diastasis persists one year after childbirth.
- Future pregnancy is not to be planned.
- Future pregnancy is not to be planned.
In such cases, tummy tuck surgery isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about improving overall quality of life. If these symptoms sound familiar, consulting a cosmetic surgeon in India who specializes in abdominoplasty is essential for a proper evaluation.
When people hear about tummy tuck surgery, they often think of it as just a cosmetic procedure to get a flat stomach. But for those suffering from diastasis recti, it’s so much more than that. A tummy tuck surgery (also called abdominoplasty) is a powerful medical solution that not only improves the appearance of the abdomen but also repairs the underlying muscle damage caused by diastasis recti.
In simpler terms, tummy tuck surgery is like hitting the reset button on your abdominal area. It addresses the loose skin, stubborn fat, and most importantly, the gap between your abdominal muscles caused by diastasis recti. This surgery helps restore core strength, improve posture, and even reduce back pain that often comes with this condition.
The process of tummy tuck surgery is detailed but follows a step-by-step approach to ensure both aesthetic and functional improvements. Here’s how it works:
Incision: The surgeon starts by making a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen, usually below the bikini line. This placement ensures that the scar remains hidden under clothing, swimwear, or underwear.
Muscle Repair: Once the skin is lifted, the surgeon focuses on repairing the diastasis recti. The two separated muscles in the middle of your abdomen (rectus abdominis) are stitched back together. This step closes the gap and strengthens the core, which is the main cause of weakness and bulging.
Excess Skin Removal: After the muscles are repaired, the loose, sagging skin is removed. This step is especially important for people who’ve gone through significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies, as stretched skin doesn’t usually snap back on its own.
Fat Reduction: If there are stubborn fat pockets in the abdominal area, they are removed using liposuction. This helps sculpt and contour the stomach, ensuring smoother results.
Skin Tightening: The remaining skin is carefully pulled tight over the repaired abdominal wall. This creates a flat, firm, and toned look. Finally, the incision is stitched closed, and a new opening for the belly button is created if needed.
The amazing change stomach tuck surgery brings—not only to the appearance of the belly but also to the body’s sensations and functions—makes it among the most satisfying procedures. This operation goes beyond appearances for those with diastasis recti; it treats core weakness and physical pain, therefore improving daily living.
Usually, following tummy tuck surgery, patients see several important changes:
A Clearly Firmer and Flatter Abdomen: A smooth, flat stomach is the most obvious outcome of tummy tuck surgery. The core appears noticeably firmer and toned after diastasis recti- induced separation of the abdominal muscles is repaired and extra skin is removed. The once- impossible belly bulge has finally disappeared, and clothes fit better.
Enhanced Core Stability and Strength: Diastasis recti affects the abdominal muscles, making it difficult to do even basic activities like sitting up, bending over, or carrying groceries. The muscles that were rebuilt during tummy tuck surgery strengthen the core, improving stability and balance for patients. Once exhausting activities become much more comfortable and easy.
Better Posture and Less Back Pain: Poor posture, which puts additional strain on the lower back, is sometimes caused by a weak core. Diastasis recti frequently results in chronic lower back discomfort for its victims. During stomach tuck surgery, the abdominal muscles are tightened, improving spinal support and frequently reducing or eliminating back pain. A more assured and upright stance is also a result of better posture.
Increased Comfort during Physical Activities: Walking, jogging, and even stretching become much more pleasurable when one’s core is stronger and less uncomfortable. Patients frequently discover that they can resume exercises they had previously avoided because of diastasis recti- related weakness or discomfort. Movement becomes easier and more natural, whether they are doing yoga, lifting weights, or playing with their kids.
A Notable Increase in Self-Confidence: The psychological advantages of stomach tuck surgery are just as potent as the physical ones. Diastasis recti and the resulting belly bulge can be frustrating and self-conscious for many people. Whether they’re staring in the mirror, donning swimwear, or wearing tailored clothing, patients frequently feel more confident about their looks after surgery.
Dr. Samir Ahire.
Dr. Samir Ahire is a board certified plastic surgeon in India with 15 years of experience to back his expertise in the domain of aesthetic surgeries.
Having completed his training from Grant Medical College and equipped with a thorough understanding of aesthetic needs of people, Dr. Ahire strives to offer the best remedies and cosmetic procedures outfitted with the latest technology to the aspirants in India and across the globe. To book an appointment, call: +91-9819685222 or email: evolvecosmeticsurgeryclinic@gmail.com
Having completed his training from Grant Medical College and equipped with a thorough understanding of aesthetic needs of people, Dr. Ahire strives to offer the best remedies and cosmetic procedures outfitted with the latest technology to the aspirants in India and across the globe.
To book an appointment, call: +91-9819685222 or
email: evolvecosmeticsurgeryclinic@gmail.com