Rectus Diastasis; the post pregnancy pooch

What is rectus diastasis?

If you have a bulge in the central abdominal area following pregnancy or weight loss then you may have diastasis recti. In addition, the condition cause pain and it is regarded as a hernia. Diastasis recti exercises can help strengthen the muscle tone.

Diastasis recti is seen in men following massive weight loss.

What Causes rectus diastasis?

Recti diastasis is a separation of the abdominal muscle from the midline. It usually happens after pregnancy and weight loss.

Many women after pregnancy will complain that their midsection is not the sameIn addition, there is a bulge at the front of their stomach. Hence the stomach looks rounder. Moreover, it can cause low back pain if the bulge is large.

What is the treatment of rectus diastasis?

Exercise and strengthening of the ab muscles usually helps. And many women will regain their pre pregnancy shape and improvement in their bulge. However, this may not be an adequate fix and surgery is needed.

Diastasis repair to correct the separation and improved you mid section is part of a tummy tuck surgery. With this procedure, not only the bulge is repaired,and the excess skin is removed, and the belly button is reshaped to a more youthful look. The excess fat in the abdomen is removed with liposuction.

To find if you have diastasis and looking to improve your midsection get a consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Moneer Jaibaji, MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, serving San Diego, Coronado and La Jolla areas.