Most Clearwater patients seek out a tummy tuck to address drooping, sagging skin in their abdomen. But other potential patients have a different problem they are trying to resolve. They have an unwanted, protruding “pooch” in their abdomen that just won’t go away, no matter how many planks or crunches they do. These plastic surgery candidates may actually be experiencing something medically known as diastasis recti – or commonly referred to as separated abdominal muscles – which can be fixed via an abdominoplasty surgery.
What is Diastasis Recti?
Your abdominal muscles play an important part in your abdominal overall structure and physique. Not only do abdominal muscles help you walk, but they also hold your organs in place. When abdominal muscles separate, they can create a widened space between your left and right abdominal muscles which you probably refer to as a “pooch.” But even more concerning, is that when you have separated abdominal muscles, there is very little connective tissue in place to hold your organs where they belong. Sometimes they can even protrude through your abdominal muscles, causing a hernia.
What Are The Risk Factors for Separated Abdominal Muscles?
A variety of conditions can cause diastasis recti including:
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Weight gain
Creating More Than Just Aesthetic Problems
Many Clearwater patients seek out a tummy tuck to fix their separated abdominal muscles, in part because the condition can cause more than just aesthetic issues. In addition to creating an unwanted “pooch,” diastasis recti can contribute to:
- Hernias
- Lower back pain
- Core weakness
- Urine leaking
If you’re suffering from any of these conditions, then a tummy tuck just may be what the doctor ordered!
Fixing Separated Abdominal Muscles with a Tummy Tuck
When tummy tuck candidates see Clearwater’s Dr. Moraitis to resolve separated abdominal muscles, he makes a large incision on their lower abdomen, from hip to hip. This incision gives him access to their abdominal muscles, which he then sutures back together so that they resolve any of the issues mentioned above, as well as hold all the abdominal organs in place. If a patient also has loose or sagging skin, that issue will also be addressed during the procedure. Your treatment plan will be unique, all based on your specific needs.
Am I A Candidate for Repairing My Abdominal Muscles?
Simply having diastasis recti doesn’t mean that a tummy tuck is the right course of treatment for you. To be a candidate for this treatment, Dr. Moraitis requires Clearwater patients to:
- Be in good general health, and pass a pre-operative appointment from their general physician.
- Listen to Dr. Moraitis explain the procedure and potential results.
- Have realistic expectations for the surgery.
- Be non-smokers, as smoking can complicate both the surgery and recovery time.
- Have a recovery plan in place, especially if you have small children, whom you won’t be able to lift or carry for the first few weeks following your surgery.
- Be in good psychological health.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Moraitis Today
If you think you have separated abdominal muscles and that a tummy tuck can help, the next best step you can make it to schedule a consultation with Dr. Moraitis.
You can reach his office in the Clearwater area today by calling (727) 773-9796.
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