The term diastasis recti is a combination of two words. “Diastasis” means separation and “Recti” stands for the rectus abdominis muscle. The rectus muscle covers the middle of the abdomen in the front.
It is a paired muscle with connective tissue joining both sides in the midline. This connective tissue is referred to as Linea Alba.
The rectus abdominal muscle is commonly known as the abdominals or abs.
What Is Diastasis Recti?
A rise in intra-abdominal pressure leads to stretching of the recti and thinning of the linea alba. Excessive stretching of the muscle and connective tissue may eventually lead to the separation of these structures in the stomach area. A separation between the two recti is known as diastasis recti.
Diastasis Recti And Pregnancy
One of the widespread reasons for diastasis recti is pregnancy. The growing uterus stretches the abdominal wall and thins the connective tissue in the middle. This condition usually develops during the last trimester due to the prolonged pressure from the growing uterus and may even be diagnosed during the postpartum period.
The tissue between the two recti, linea alba, is highly elastic and tends to bounce back in approximately 6 weeks or so. Many females have some degree of diastasis recti during pregnancy. It may get worse with successive pregnancies.
In 33% to 40% of people, the condition persists even after six months.
What Causes Diastasis Recti?
The condition is commonly seen during pregnancy and the postpartum period but there may be other reasons that lead to diastasis recti. These include obesity, connective tissue diseases, or having had abdominal surgeries before.
Simply put, any condition that raises the pressure inside the abdomen for prolonged periods or leads to weakness/laxity of the connective tissue and muscles may cause a separation between the two recti.
Diastasis Recti – Symptoms
Some of the frequently encountered symptoms of diastasis recti may include, backache, bad posture, gastrointestinal issues (bloating, constipation, pain), and problems of the pelvic floor.
Severe cases may interfere with daily activities like lifting, twisting, or walking.
diastasis recti increases the risk of an abdominal hernia, if not treated in a timely manner.
Diastasis Recti – Treatment
A diastasis recti is treated by performing an abdominoplasty or what is mostly referred as a tummy tuck. The surgery aims to resolve the muscle and connective tissue laxity, along with repairing the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles. Depending on the additional signs that accompany diastasis recti (excess fat, skin), the tummy tuck may be accompanied by additional procedures. Mayclinik offers state-of-the-art tummy tuck services under the expert guidance of qualified surgeons at leading cosmetic surgery hospitals in Istanbul, Turkiye.
The procedure includes a detailed history and examination to assess the extent of the diastasis and the overall health status of the patient. Depending on individual issues, there are different types of tummy tucks offered.
For example, a standard abdominoplasty reinforces the abdominal muscles and involves the removal of excess fat and skin, while a “Mini Tummy Tuck” addresses a diastasis that is localized to the lower abdomen.
