What Is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti is a common condition that affects women after pregnancy. It most commonly happens after having multiple children, if you become pregnant after the age of 35, or are pregnant with a heavy baby or multiple babies. Diastasis recti occurs when there is separation of the rectus abdominis muscles. These ab muscles tend to stretch due to the pressure of pregnancy and may not always return to their normal state. While many women seek exercise to help tone this noticeable “pooch” from their protruding abdomen, certain exercises can actually make diastasis recti worse. This is why it is important to only seek treatment from qualified professionals who are experienced with this unique condition.

Although the opening caused by diastasis recti can shrink over time, many suffer from the condition for years, with some never finding relief. If you have developed diastasis recti and are unhappy with your protruding abdominal appearance, you may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck. With tummy tuck surgery, the abdominal muscles are repaired and excess tissue is removed to create a flatter, more contoured midsection. This surgery may also be necessary if diastasis recti has led to an umbilical hernia, which occurs when the organs begin to emerge through the opening.

To learn if tummy tuck surgery is right for you, please contact The Ottawa Clinic to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons.