Tummy Tuck: Prices, Photos, Reviews, Info, Q&A

A tummy tuck is designed to improve three different elements of the abdominal wall: the muscles (rectus diastasis), the fat beneath the skin, and the skin itself. In different people more or less may need to be done to each of these elements.

In women who have had multiple pregnancies or large pregnancies, the muscle separation or rectus diastasis is key to getting a good shape.

In order to gain access to the muscles, the incisions and dissection for the tummy tuck must be performed. So, there really in no way to repair the muscle separation short of a tummy tuck.

While performing the tummy tuck, I will use liposuction to thin out the layer of fat underneath the skin in women who need this.

Diastasis repair without tummy tuck operation

This involves a technique referred to as a lipoabdominoplasty which is a bit different from the traditional abdominoplasty or tummy tuck. However, having done both, I think the results of the lipoabdominoplasty are superior in terms of the overall shape of the abdomen.

The loose or excess skin will be removed in each of these techniques. In most women we like to be able to remove all the skin from the belly button down to the pubic region (full tummy tuck). In women who do not have much excess skin, less will be removed (mini-tummy tuck).

Diastasis repair without abdominoplasty

In some of these women, the only real muscle separation is below the belly button, requiring less muscle repair. But the muscle work is very important to the results of a tummy tuck, and there is really no way to repair the muscle separation without a tummy tuck. (David B. Reath, MD, Knoxville Plastic Surgeon)

Diastasis can be repaired without tummy tuck

The plastic surgeon can repair the diastasis endoscopically, using small incisions. However, the surgeon has to discuss with you if you might need mesh to repair the diastasis; in this case it would be harder to do endoscopically. It is very unusual for someone to need repair of diastasis but not removal of excess skin.

If you do have excess skin, in my experience you will be much happier with a full abdominoplasty. Make sure you discuss the pros and cons of each option with your surgeon so you can make the best choice for you that fits your goals. Hope this helps. (Tracy Pfeifer, MD, Chicago Plastic Surgeon)

Tummy tuck not necessary to fix a diastasis recti

Diastasis repair without tummy tuck images

SEE VIDEO BELOW for repair of diastasis recti: Because a diastasis recti is most commonly associated with pregnancy, a tummy tuck is the most common approach to its repair. However, men and nulliparous women can be effected by a congenital diastasis recti, and depending on the severity of the separation, a variety of approaches using limited incisions can be used to repair a diastasis recti. (Otto Joseph Placik, MD)

Tummy Tuck Required to Fix Diastasis Recti

A tummy tuck is not required to fix diastasis recti but it usually makes the most sense. Some general surgeons repair it using a vertical incision that leaves a long vertical scar and that can also leave excess bunched up skin. Most would not like that. A mini tummy tuck scar can also be used but while technically possible, bunched up skin has plagued this technique. A good discussion with your surgeon will inform you of your options given your anatomy. (George Volpe, MD, Boston Plastic Surgeon)

Diastasis repair without tummy tuck photo

While a diastasis recti can be repaired, a surgeon almost has to do as much work as a full tummy tuck. I don’t see any significant benefit of this limited surgery since your recovery would be similar. Also, repair of a diastasis that has a 3 inch gap will leave even more excess skin in an unsightly manner if not treated properly.

While a traditional mini tummy tuck may sound like a nice alternative, it will not address a diastasis recti. A modified tummy tuck can correct a diastasis, but may leave you with less than optimal tummy tuck results. From your description, your best bet is to go all in and have the full tummy tuck. (Gabriel Chiu, DO, Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon)

Tummy Tuck and repairing diastasis recti

Yes, you can have it repaired without a tummy tuck, however, if you have had significant stretching and are left with sagging skin it would be optimal to have the extra skin removed and proceed with a tummy tuck. I think you would be happier in the end. (Alfred Sofer, MD, FACS, Fairfield Plastic Surgeon)

Diastasis repair without tummy tuck surgery

If the muscles need to be repaired, the entire area from the pubic hairline to the ribcage needs to be exposed. This is the majority of the work involved in a tummy tuck surgery. The only additional part of the procedure that could be left out would be excision of the excess skin and revision of the belly button.

However, it would make no sense to go this far into the operation, only to eliminate two of the most outstanding benefits of the surgery.

Partial tummy tuck only gives access to the lower half of the abdomen. If you have diathesis recti and you repair the muscles of only the lower half of the abdomen, it will create a contour abnormality in the upper half of the abdomen. (Gary Lawton, MD, San Antonio Plastic Surgeon)

Repairing Diasasis Recti without tummy tuck

there are some women who seem to have limited excess skin, but an abdominal bulge caused by the separation of muscles during pregnancy. Muscle repair can be accomplished alone.

However, most women would want the best looking abdomen possible and that generally means at least some removal of skin and possibly fat. A consultation can help you make up your mind. Look at many, many before and after images and be certain your plastic surgeon has exceptional training and expertise in this area. (Michael Law, MD, Raleigh-Durham Plastic Surgeon)