When the belly doesn't regain its shape after pregnancy or weight loss, it's not just a question of aesthetics. Diastasis can have a profound impact on posture and daily life. Thanks to plastic and reconstructive surgery in Paris, It is possible to restore a functional and harmonious abdominal girdle, for both medical and personal reasons.
The diastasis, also known as diastasis recti, corresponds to a spreading of the rectus abdominis muscle.
The rectus abdominis muscle lies at the front of the abdomen, on either side of the linea alba. This muscle is commonly known as the «rectus abdominis".« abdominal wall »from« abdominal muscles »or « chocolate bars ». The white line starts at the rib cage and extends to the pubis. This is the centerline of the abdomen.
Normally, the right and left abdominal muscles are fused at the linea alba. The abdominal muscles provide perfect protection for the internal organs. When the two parts separate, we speak of abdominal diastasis or diastasis of the rectus abdominis. The word diastasis comes from the Greek and means «to separate».
Diastasis is caused by overstretching of the abdominal muscles and loosening of the abdominal muscles. abdominal strap. This pathology can be accompanied by hernias, postural problems and even disorders of vertebral statics.
Diastasis may be accentuated by’physical exercises and fade or even disappear at rest.
Diastasis mainly affects pregnant women.
The development of the fetus stretches the abdominal muscles. When diastasis occurs during pregnancy, it is generally seen after delivery, during the post-partum.
Muscle spacing and belly relaxation can also appear after very significant weight loss.
They are not due to weight loss, but to the stretching caused by the weight gain.
There are several hypotheses concerning the risk factors for diastasis in pregnant women:
It's important to remember that diastasis can never be corrected by physical activity. To correct it, surgery is required: the’abdominoplasty.
Prior to the operation, two plastic surgery are necessary. They enable us to analyze your tummy and define the surgical strategy best suited to your case.
No surgery is possible during pregnancy. It is advisable to wait 6 months after delivery before considering tummy tuck surgery. In addition, it is preferable to have completed all pregnancies before undergoing abdominoplasty.
If you are overweight, this must be corrected before any surgery.
An ultrasound scan of the abdominal wall may be requested.
A visit to the anaesthetist is mandatory before the operation.
To facilitate healing, it is advisable to stop smoking at least one month before and one month after the operation.
Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs are also forbidden during the week preceding the operation.
Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck with diastasis is to bring together the two parts of the rectus abdominis muscle. It restores tension to the abdominal muscles and corrects their spacing.
During the operation, the muscles are tightened along the entire midline by plication, i.e. suturing.
An abdominoplasty scar is placed at pubic level.
The procedure takes place in the operating room, under general anesthesia and lasts about two hours.
It is possible to improve the aesthetics of the abdominal wall by liposuction.
Once the operation is complete, a 2-day hospital stay is required.
Dressings should be worn for 15 days.
Convalescence lasts about 4 weeks.
No sport practice, nor any abdominal exercises should not be used for 3 months.
A compression girdle will be prescribed for 1 ½ months.
You can return to work after 15 to 21 days. You may be entitled to time off work if the operation is covered by social security.
You can resume walking the day after surgery. Walking improves circulation and helps muscles become more supple. It speeds up the healing process.
The final morphological result is visible between 6 months and 1 year after the operation.
The repair of a diastasis of the abdomen is considered cosmetic surgery.
Social Security covers the cost of diastasis when it is associated with a abdominal apron covering the pubis or hernia, such as a umbilical hernia.
In order to obtain reimbursement, it is necessary to complete a prior agreement procedure.
Beyond the physical transformation, the repair of a diastasis acts as a genuine inner reconstruction. The tummy regains a forgotten tonicity, posture is straightened and breathing becomes more fluid. This functional gain is accompanied by a profound change in self-perception: many patients describe a feeling of stability, lightness and new-found confidence in their bodies.
Scars gradually fade, and the tightened abdominal wall creates a harmonious, balanced silhouette. Improved posture also reduces back pain associated with muscle relaxation, contributing to overall well-being.
To get an idea of the real effects of this surgery, you can consult before and after abdominoplasty photos, which illustrate the restoration of the tummy and the transformation of the way we look at ourselves after a repaired diastasis.
Psychologically, this operation is often a way of turning the page on a difficult period of motherhood or an undergone bodily change. The belly is no longer perceived as a weakened area, but as the rediscovered center of a balance between physical strength and self-esteem.
Yes, abdominal diastasis can often be identified on clinical examination, In particular, the midline bulges when the patient is lying down. However, a ultrasound of the abdominal wall is recommended to accurately measure muscle spacing and assess the need for reconstructive surgery. This examination is often requested prior to abdominoplasty with diastasis cure.
Yes, diastasis can be aggravated by certain types of poorly adapted exercise, These include the classic abdominals and push-ups. Over time, the gap can widen, causing back pain, digestive problems or a feeling of a swollen belly. Surgery is the only effective solution to restore a functional abdominal wall and prevent aggravation.
Abdominoplasty with diastasis cure may be covered by Social Security only if combined with a abdominal apron covering the pubis or a hernia. A request for prior agreement is mandatory and assessed by the medical advisor. If these criteria are not met, the surgery is considered to be cosmetic and is charged to the patient.
A diastasis can cause troublesome symptoms, These include a belly that remains swollen despite weight loss, lower back pain, digestive problems or a feeling of instability in the trunk. It can also be responsible for a “permanent pregnancy belly” appearance. Reconstructive surgery can restore the abdominal muscles and improve posture.
The price of an abdominoplasty with diastasis cure in the private sector generally varies between €6,000 and €7,000., Depending on the procedures involved (liposuction, hernia), the clinic and the surgeon's fees, you will be given a quotation. In the absence of Social Security coverage, the estimate includes all costs (anesthesia, operating room, hospitalization). Visit Dr Jérémy Djian always hands over a personalized quote after consultation, including anesthesia, operating room and hospitalization.
Dr Jérémy Djian is a plastic surgeon based at 5 square Thiers, near the Victor Hugo roundabout, in the 16th arrondissement of Paris.
He trained in Paris and remains attached to the hospital in the prestigious department of Pr Laurent Lantieri.
Hello, I had a sleeve operation in 2021 and having lost 54KG I find myself with skin that falls off (stomach, arms, slightly thighs), I would like to know if I could benefit from an abdominoplasty to remove my complex.
info: 25 years old, Female, 1m62, 58kg
Thank you for your reply,
sincerely
Hello, ma'am,
I think that you can benefit from an abdominoplasty covered by social security,
But you need to be examined,
Yours sincerely,
Dr Djian
After abdominoplasty and diastasis
How long afterwards can you feel
Tightness (discomfort) in the abdominal muscles?
Thank you
Hello, ma'am,
We recommend a 6-week rest period to allow for healing,
Yours sincerely,
Dr Djian