When Your Post-Partum Pooch Won’t Go Away

Are you afraid you’ll have to wear Spanx forever? Few women are lucky enough to return completely to their pre-pregnancy physique after having children. Even when the extra pounds are shed, many moms continue to struggle with a bulge around their waistline. This stubborn pooch or flabby belly appearance, that we often refer to as “mommy tummy,” is typically caused by diastasis recti (DR). Fortunately, diastasis recti is a condition that can be fixed by a qualified plastic surgeon.

What is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis Recti is a separation in the center line of your abdominal “six pack” muscles, otherwise known as the linea alba. This leaves the left and right side of your abs looking and feeling “separated,” and no amount of crunches or healthy diet can reduce the bulge that results from this separation.

Diastasis recti occurs during pregnancy, when excessive pressure is placed on the abdominal wall. Experts believe that poor posture and using the wrong core muscles during pregnancy contributes to his condition. While it is normal to have some separation of the linea alba during pregnancy, if it does not remedy itself in the post-partum period, a plastic surgeon may need to intervene. Older women have multiple children, a C-section, greater weight gain or large babies are at greater risk for DR.

More Than Just an Aesthetic Concern

While diastasis recti is usually a “painless” cosmetic concern as moms strive to get their pre-baby body back, it can also lead to disruptive issues beyond aesthetics. The separation of the ab muscles can result in low back pain, hip pain and urinary incontinence when DR is not resolved within twelve months postpartum.

Diastasis Recti Repair Surgery

Diastasis recti repair surgery is a procedure that is used specifically to repair the separation of the rectus abdominis. Many women choose to combine this cosmetic surgery with an abdominoplasty, which can include liposuction and skin tightening as well. Dr. Preminger is a diastasis recti repair specialist that can suture the fascia and muscles together to flatten the stomach and eliminate the abdomen bulge.

If your mommy tummy is causing you pain or embarrassment, let us help. Call Aviva Preminger, MD Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in New York to book your consult.