Mommy makeovers are one of our specialties here at FORM Face + Body, and a tummy tuck with diastasis recti muscle repair is a procedure that we perform very frequently. Today we’re shedding some light on the questions patients commonly have for us and sharing some of our real patient results.
What is a diastasis recti?
A diastasis recti is a separation of the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominis) that can cause some unwanted side effects. During pregnancy, a person’s abdomen naturally becomes distended as it accommodates the growing baby. After giving birth, the abdominal muscles contract back together. In some cases, they have stretched so far apart that they can no longer knit themselves back together naturally. This results in a gap that can cause discomfort or a weaker core, and can also cause a protrusion of the abdomen that cannot be addressed with weight loss or exercise. Some patients come to us referring to a ‘bulge’ or a ‘pooch’ that never seems to go away. In these cases, surgery can be a good option to restore your stomach muscles and the contour of your abdomen to its pre-pregnancy state.
How common is diastasis recti?
One review showed that as many as 66% of women experience diastasis recti during the third trimester, with 30-60% continuing to experience the condition after birth.
How do I know if I have a diastasis recti severe enough for surgery?
Bodies need plenty of time to heal after giving birth. After being cleared by your physician, gentle exercise can help to strengthen the abdominal muscles and bring them back together. However, in some cases a gap remains that cannot be closed without surgical intervention. A gap between your abdominal muscles of 2cm or more that remains after 3 months of exercise may necessitate surgery. You can ask your family doctor to assess you for diastasis recti, or you can try performing a self-examination first. We can also check for this when you visit us for your surgical consultation.
How is a diastasis recti repaired?
At FORM, we perform a type of muscle repair that begins at the insertion of the rectus abdominis, near your sternum, and goes all the way down to the pubic bone. We use a special barbed dissolvable suture and perform a triple layer of muscle repair. Barbed sutures interlock with the tissues they are connecting and have increased holding power. This combination of techniques ensures that the repair is very sturdy and less likely to separate again over time.
What are the results of a tummy tuck with muscle repair?
A tummy tuck with diastasis recti repair can have dramatic results. A typical treatment plan will include excision of any excess skin, repair and tightening of the muscle tissues, and contouring liposuction to remove excess fat and sculpt a streamlined shape. We’ve seen many of our patients come in with a very significant abdominal protrusion and leave with a nearly perfectly flat side profile. This is why it’s one of our favourite transformational procedures!
In addition to a tummy tuck, many of our post-pregnancy patients choose to combine procedures in a mommy makeover and benefit from a single recovery time. This can include a breast surgery like a reduction, lift, and/or augmentation, additional liposuction as needed, and fat transfer to the hip dips, breasts, or buttocks.
Tummy Tuck with Diastasis Recti Repair Before and After
How much scarring will I have from a tummy tuck with diastasis repair?
This will depend on your specific surgical plan. With any tummy tuck, you will have a horizontal incision that we typically place just below the underwear line so it can be easily concealed under clothing or bathing suits. A mini tummy tuck requires a shorter incision, while a full tummy tuck will extend from hip to hip. In a full tummy tuck, a second incision around the belly button will allow it to be repositioned in the appropriate location once the excess skin and fat has been addressed. Your surgeon will determine which type of procedure you are a good candidate for. While the incision lines will remain permanently visible to some extent, they will heal and fade over time. We can guide you in a scar care routine to ensure optimal healing.
Can you treat a diastasis recti without surgery?
Some prenatal strengthening exercises can help to reduce the likelihood of diastasis recti and can also help to repair a mild separation, but for gaps of 2cm or more we don’t recommend self-treating without the advice of a physician.
What is diastasis recti repair surgery recovery like?
Recovery from a tummy tuck with muscle repair ranges from 3-6 weeks depending on your surgical plan. You will experience some bruising and swelling, and may need to wear a supportive compression garment while you heal. You will need to refrain from exercise and avoid straining, bending, and lifting heavy objects. You will be asked to sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees for at least 3 weeks after surgery. You should also avoid driving for 2-4 weeks after surgery, as any pain or limited mobility can impair your ability to drive safely.
How much does a tummy tuck with diastasis recti repair cost?
A tummy tuck at our Toronto clinic ranges from $10,000 to $15,000 depending on whether you require a mini or full tummy tuck. Diastasis recti repair is included with both procedures, if needed.
Is a diastasis recti tummy tuck covered by insurance in Canada?
Currently, diastasis recti repair with or without a tummy tuck in Ontario is not covered by OHIP. Many private insurers do not cover this procedure either, but check with your provider to be certain.
To book a consultation and discuss your options, call or email us today!
