Diastasis Recti: The Medical Condition That Causes a Mommy Tummy
I am a board-certified plastic surgeon in Long Island, New York, with an outstanding reputation that spans three decades of practice. I am experienced in a wide array of surgical procedures focusing on the body, and specialize in providing the latest, most advanced treatments. My goal is to offer minimally invasive and... more
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As a mom, you already know that pregnancy and childbirth bring a whirlwind of emotional and physical changes to your body. But these can sometimes linger long after giving birth in the form of a tummy, that no matter what you do, it won’t go away.
It’s normal to still look pregnant right after giving birth, but if this prolongs for months on end, you might be living with a postpartum abdominal condition known as diastasis recti. It’s extremely common—over 30% of new moms deal with this after giving birth. In the less severe cases this can be rectified with physical therapy and time, but it most often goes unresolved leaving women feeling insecure and frustrated by their changed body. Despite how common this condition is, most of my patients have never heard of it and place blame on themselves for not “snapping” back like they should have.
Your body’s hormones and uterus change to accommodate the new baby. That part is normal, but in diastasis recti, your tissues become so stretched that their elastic quality diminishes, and they can’t bounce back after you give birth. This causes a gap, leaving you with an extended abdomen and pooch that protrudes especially after meals.
If you believe you have diastasis recti, there are some exercises that you can do to work towards correcting it. This is always advised before pursuing surgical options. But if you are one of the more common cases that needs surgical intervention, a tummy tuck may be a good choice for you. A tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin, but most importantly restores your weakened abdominal muscles, creating an hourglass silhouette and a strong core. The results are truly amazing and change your body instantly. It is one of my favorite procedures to do because it gives women a renewed sense of confidence.
Here’s the gist: If your mommy tummy just will not go away, then a tummy tuck is absolutely worth it (and for some women—necessary). Without the surgery, diastasis recti can permanently affect your core and even your back, including your posture. Make sure you see a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in the body.
If you are located in the Long Island area, I would be happy to sit down with you and discuss your body goals. 631-343-8550.
