Tummy Tuck Surgery: Is Diastasis Recti Repair Always Included?

Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is a popular procedure that helps people achieve a flatter, more toned tummy by removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles. Patients often wonder if diastasis recti repair, which involves repairing the separation of the abdominal muscles, is always included in an abdominoplasty. Dr. Chad Wu, a trusted plastic surgeon in Richmond Hill and Toronto Downtown, frequently performs abdominoplasty and diastasis recti repair. Still, the decision to include muscle repair depends on each patient’s specific needs.

Diastasis recti occurs when the two sides of the abdominal muscles separate, which is common after pregnancy or when considerable weight changes occur. This condition can lead to a protruding belly, even with no excess fat. Muscle repair is a crucial part of abdominoplasty surgery for patients who suffer from diastasis recti. Bringing the abdominal muscles together not only improves the appearance of the abdomen but also increases its stability and strength.

Dr Chad Wu incisions along the lower abdomen during the procedure, usually just above the pubic area. If a diastasis repair is required, he carefully sutures the separated muscles, creating a firmer, more toned abdominal wall. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced muscle separation as a result of pregnancy or weight fluctuations.

However, not all abdominoplasty procedures require the repair of diastasis. For patients without significant muscle separation, abdominoplasty may be limited to removing excess skin and fat. In this case, the abdominal muscles are already intact and do not require further repair. Dr. Chad Wu, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Richmond Hill and Toronto Downtown, assesses each patient’s anatomy during consultation to determine if diastasis recti repair is necessary.

If you are considering abdominoplasty and are unsure whether diastasis recti repair should be part of your procedure, Dr. Chad Wu can guide you through the decision-making process. As a leading plastic surgeon in Richmond Hill and Toronto Downtown, Dr. Wu tailors each abdominoplasty to the unique needs of his patients, ensuring that the final results are natural, beautiful and long-lasting.