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In short: diastasis recti is the separation of the two abdominal muscles along the midline. It is common after pregnancy and shows as a bulge in the middle of the belly when you tense the abdominal muscles. Mild cases can improve with targeted physiotherapy; when it persists long after childbirth, especially with loose skin, it is corrected with a tummy tuck.
It can also appear after major weight gain or loss. Here is how to recognise it and what the options are.
What diastasis recti is
The two rectus abdominis muscles are joined in the middle by a band of tissue called the linea alba. During pregnancy this band stretches to make room for the baby. If it does not return to normal after childbirth, the muscles stay apart: this is diastasis.
Besides the look of the belly, which stays prominent even at a normal weight, some women describe a feeling of weakness in the abdominal wall.
How to recognise it
- a central bulge when you sit up from lying down or tense your abdominal muscles
- a belly that stays prominent even after returning to your usual weight
- a gap you can feel between the muscles, above or below the navel
- sometimes an associated umbilical hernia
Confirmation and the width of the gap come from a medical examination and, when indicated, an ultrasound of the abdominal wall.
Exercises or surgery?
| Situation | Possible approach |
|---|---|
| Mild diastasis, a few months after childbirth | Physiotherapy and specific exercises for the abdominal wall, with a professional |
| Diastasis persisting long after childbirth, without excess skin | Surgical assessment of the abdominal wall |
| Diastasis with loose or excess skin, possibly stretch marks | Tummy tuck with diastasis repair |
| Abdomen and breasts changed after pregnancy | A combined mommy makeover may be considered |
Traditional abdominal exercises such as crunches are not always suitable with diastasis: it is better to be guided by a physiotherapist.
How a tummy tuck with diastasis repair works
During a tummy tuck the surgeon brings the rectus muscles back together and stitches them, removes excess skin and reshapes the navel. It is done under general anaesthesia and usually involves one night in the clinic.
- desk work: usually after 7-10 days
- abdominal garment: for about 4 weeks
- light exercise: after about 3-4 weeks, intense sport when the surgeon allows it
- recommended stay in Tirana: about 6-7 days
It is best done when no further pregnancies are planned and weight is stable, some time after childbirth and the end of breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about diastasis recti
In the first months after childbirth it can reduce spontaneously, also with specific exercises. If it persists long after childbirth, a medical assessment is useful.
It is more common after pregnancy, but it can also occur in men, for example after major weight gain or repeated incorrect straining.
No. Liposuction removes fat but does not bring the muscles together or remove excess skin. For diastasis a tummy tuck is considered.
Yes, but a new pregnancy can change the abdominal wall again. That is why surgery is usually recommended when no more pregnancies are planned.
The recommended stay is usually about 6-7 days, for the operation, the night in the clinic and the first check-ups.