Diastasis Recti Before & After: What To Expect From Surgery
If you’ve ever noticed a stubborn “pooch” in your midsection that won’t go away no matter how many crunches you do, you might be dealing with diastasis recti — a separation of the abdominal muscles that often happens after pregnancy. The good news? There’s a way to fix it, and the results can be life-changing.
In this guide, we’ll break down what diastasis recti looks like before and after surgery, how plastic surgery can correct it, and why some patients need hernia repair as part of their procedure.
Diastasis Recti After Birth
Diastasis recti happens when the rectus abdominis muscles (the “six-pack” muscles) stretch and separate, usually due to pregnancy or significant weight changes. This creates a visible bulge or ridge in the abdomen, especially when you sit up or strain.
Signs you may have diastasis recti include:
A visible midline bulge or “doming” when you sit up
A persistent lower belly pooch even at a healthy weight
Lower back pain or poor core strength
Unfortunately, no amount of crunches can (really) bring those muscles back together — in fact, certain exercises can make the separation worse. There are plenty of diastasis recti repair workouts that can be found on YouTube, however, we’ve found that many of our patients did not achieve favorable results from doing the routines, leaving them with that “persistent bulge.”
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Diastasis Recti Surgery Before & After Photos
When you look at diastasis recti before and after photos, the difference can be dramatic. Before surgery, many women see a protruding stomach even when the rest of their body is slim. Clothes don’t fit right, and core strength can feel nonexistent.
After surgery, patients often notice:
A flat, tight-looking abdomen
Better posture and core stability
More comfort in clothing
A big boost in confidence
These results are possible because surgery doesn’t just remove excess skin and fat — it actually repairs the underlying muscle separation.
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How Plastic Surgery Fixes Diastasis Recti
The most common way to repair diastasis recti is through an abdominoplasty aka a tummy tuck. Learn about tummy tuck cost and recovery here. During this procedure, a board-certified plastic surgeon:
Makes a low incision, usually hidden along the bikini line
Tightens the stretched abdominal wall by suturing the separated muscles back together
Removes excess skin and fat
Re-drapes the skin for a smoother, flatter appearance
For patients who only have mild separation and no extra skin, a mini tummy tuck or less invasive approach may be enough.
Hernia Repair During Diastasis Recti Surgery
It’s common for patients with diastasis recti to also have a small umbilical hernia (a bulge near the belly button where tissue pushes through the abdominal wall). If this is present, your surgeon can repair the hernia during the same operation — saving you an extra procedure later and ensuring the best cosmetic and functional outcome. Did we mention Dr. Isak is known for crafting natural belly buttons during abdominoplasty surgery? Read our reviews on Google. Our patients LOVE how good their belly buttons look after surgery.
Why Choose Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Newport Beach
Choosing the right surgeon is everything. A board-certified plastic surgeon in Newport Beach has the training and experience to ensure not only that the muscle repair is effective but that the cosmetic result looks natural and smooth. You want someone who:
Specializes in abdominoplasty and core muscle repair
Has a gallery of diastasis recti before and after photos so you can see real results
Offers a personalized surgical plan based on your anatomy and goals
Is transparent about pricing and recovery expectations
Price, Recovery & What to Expect
Diastasis recti repair is usually considered cosmetic, which means it’s not typically covered by insurance (even if it has functional benefits). To learn more about tummy tuck pricing, recovery time, and financing options, check out our full guide: Tummy Tuck Recovery.
Most patients can return to light activities within 2 weeks, but full recovery takes several weeks. Your surgeon will give you detailed aftercare instructions to ensure the best result and long-term core strength.
Your Next Step: Consultation & Customized Plan
If you’re tired of hiding your midsection or feeling frustrated with a belly bulge you can’t fix with exercise, diastasis recti surgery could be the solution you’ve been looking for. A consultation with a plastic surgeon will confirm whether you have diastasis recti and determine the best approach to repair it — sometimes including hernia repair for a truly complete result.
Diastasis recti can be frustrating and even painful — but it’s fixable. Before and after photos show just how transformative this surgery can be for your body, your confidence, and your quality of life. If you’re ready to feel strong, flat, and confident again, schedule a consultation with Dr. Isak, and start your journey toward a restored core.
