Apart from being performed for aesthetic purposes, a mini abdominoplasty can sometimes be performed to address separated abdominal muscles, known as diastasis recti.
Diastasis recti can leave a gap between the left and right sides of the rectus abdominis, which can sometimes lead to a protruding abdomen and contribute to discomfort in the longer term.
If you have separated abdominal muscles and want to consider undergoing a mini abdominoplasty as a treatment option, having a good understanding of the procedure and the results can be a helpful first step.
In this blog, we’ll discuss how diastasis recti can be treated, how a mini abdominoplasty is performed, and other details that can help you understand the process.
What is diastasis recti, and how can it occur?
Diastasis recti occurs when the connective tissue that holds the abdominal muscles together stretches and weakens. This separation often happens due to the pressure of a growing baby during pregnancy, but it can also result from rapid weight changes or improper core exercises.
The condition is more than just a cosmetic concern, as it can also contribute to weak core strength, lower back pain, posture issues, and difficulty with certain physical activities.
Many people with diastasis recti find that no amount of targeted exercise or physical therapy can fully restore their abdominal muscles to their pre-separation state, which can prompt them to consider surgical options.
What is a mini abdominoplasty?
Essentially, a mini abdominoplasty focuses on the lower abdomen. Unlike a full abdominoplasty, which addresses excess skin and muscle issues across the entire abdomen, a mini abdominoplasty is less invasive and targets the area below the belly button.
When combined with muscle repair, a mini abdominoplasty can address diastasis recti by tightening the abdominal muscles and bringing them back together. The procedure is particularly suitable for those with mild to moderate separation and minimal excess skin, as it is less extensive than a full abdominoplasty.
Who is a suitable candidate for a mini abdominoplasty to treat diastasis recti?
Suitable candidates for a mini abdominoplasty procedure are those who primarily experience diastasis recti in the lower abdomen, are at a healthy weight with stable weight maintenance, and are in good overall health, including being non-smokers. Candidates who smoke may be advised to quit before surgery to help their suitability.
Candidates should also have minimal excess skin or fat in the upper abdomen. If you have a moderate or significant amount of excess skin or fat pockets or have excess skin on the upper abdomen, a full abdominoplasty may be a more suitable procedure option.
A variety of additional individual factors can also influence whether you’re suitable for a mini abdominoplasty, so discussing your needs during a consultation will be required to accurately determine your suitability.
How is the procedure performed?
The first step in treating diastasis recti with a mini abdominoplasty is a consultation with Dr Rastogi.
During your consultation, Dr Rastogi will evaluate the extent of your muscle separation, assess your abdominal tissue, and determine if a mini abdominoplasty is the right procedure for you. He will also need to discuss your medical history and the details of any previous surgeries.
A mini abdominoplasty is typically performed under general anaesthesia. Typically, a small horizontal incision is made just above the pubic area, which is usually shorter than that of a full abdominoplasty. To treat diastasis recti, Dr Rastogi will carefully bring the separated abdominal muscles back together using internal sutures. Any excess skin or fat can then also be carefully removed, depending on your needs.
The incision is then closed with sutures, and a dressing or compression garment is applied to support the area during recovery.
Since the procedure will be personalised to suit your needs, you will be able to discuss how it will be performed in more detail during your consultation.
Recovery and results after treating diastasis recti with a mini abdominoplasty
Recovery from a mini abdominoplasty may sometimes be quicker and less intensive than recovery from a full abdominoplasty, but it will depend on the extent of your procedure.
Despite it being less extensive than a full abdominoplasty, it will still involve some expected post-surgical discomfort and swelling, which will require some care during your recovery period.
Swelling and bruising are normal to experience after your procedure, particularly within the first few weeks. Wearing a compression garment as instructed can help to minimise these effects, as well as following your other important recovery instructions.
To allow your muscles and abdominal tissue to heal properly, it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and any activities that can put strain on the area. You will be able to discuss how to manage your activity levels and what to avoid after surgery during your consultation, according to your personal lifestyle and the extent of your procedure.
When it comes to the results of a mini abdominoplasty to treat separated abdominal muscles, patients typically notice improved core strength and stability over time, as well as reduced discomfort, if discomfort was experienced. It can also help to improve posture, if there were any posture difficulties caused by the diastasis recti.
While the initial results can be visible within a few weeks, the final results will typically show over time, as swelling subsides and the tissues fully heal.
Book your consultation for a mini abdominoplasty with Dr Rastogi in Sydney
If you’re ready to take the next step, you are welcome to contact our team to schedule a consultation with Dr Rastogi in Sydney.
Dr Rastogi can assess the extent of the separated abdominal muscles, as well as assess the level of excess skin or fat in the abdomen. This will help to find the most suitable type of procedure to address your needs, and particularly determine if a mini abdominoplasty will be a sufficient method.
Please feel free to reach out to our team today!
