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What is the Diastasis Recti Procedure?

Diastasis Recti repair is a surgical procedure designed to treat the separation of the abdominal muscles that can occur during pregnancy, weight gain, or other factors. During the procedure, the surgeon reattaches the abdominal muscles, restoring their position and strengthening the core. It is often combined with tummy tuck surgery for optimal results.

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Benefits of Diastasis Recti Repair Surgery

  • Restores Abdominal Integrity: Reattaches separated abdominal muscles for a firmer and smoother appearance.
  • Improves Posture and Core Strength: Correcting Diastasis Recti can help alleviate lower back pain and improve posture.
  • Boosts Confidence: Many women feel more confident in their bodies post-surgery, seeing a smoother, toned abdomen.
  • Relieves Abdominal Discomfort: Corrects the bulge that can cause discomfort when exercising or even while performing daily activities.
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Are You a Candidate for Diastasis Recti Repair?

You may be a candidate for Diastasis Recti repair in Palo Alto if you:

  • Are experiencing a visible bulge or gap in the abdominal area after pregnancy.
  • Have weak or separated abdominal muscles that are not improving with exercise.
  • Have significant muscle separation that is causing discomfort or functional problems.
  • Are in good general health and maintain a stable weight.

Why Choose Graw Beauty for Your Diastasis Recti Repair?

At Graw Beauty, Dr. Graw brings a combination of expert surgical skills, personalized care, and a unique understanding of the body’s musculature, honed through both artistic and surgical experience. As a mother of two, Dr. Graw has firsthand knowledge of the challenges associated with Diastasis Recti, and she works with each patient to tailor the procedure to their specific needs.

With a deep passion for body sculpting and years of experience in abdominal surgeries, you can trust Graw Beauty to restore your confidence and strength through precise and effective Diastasis Recti repair.

Your Consultation

During your consultation at Graw Beauty, Dr. Graw will:

  • Conduct a thorough examination of your abdominal area.
  • Discuss your health history and goals for surgery.
  • Recommend the best surgical approach based on your condition.
  • Answer any questions you have about the procedure, recovery, and results.
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Cost of Diastasis Recti Repair

The cost of Diastasis Recti repair is tailored to each individual patient and depends on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, whether it is combined with other surgeries such as a tummy tuck, and the extent of muscle separation or abdominal contouring required. During your consultation, Dr. Graw will evaluate your unique needs and provide you with a customized treatment plan, ensuring that your procedure is as effective as possible. Financing options are available to help make the procedure more accessible.

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The Diastasis Recti Treatment Experience

Pre-Procedure:

  • A pre-surgical consultation where Dr. Graw will discuss anesthesia options and recovery expectations.
  • You will need to arrange for a ride home after surgery as the procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

During the Procedure:

  • The procedure typically takes 2-4 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
  • Dr. Graw will make an incision, usually along the bikini line, and repair the separated muscles.

Post-Procedure:

  • A compression garment will be worn to help with healing and minimize swelling.
  • Rest is crucial in the first few days following the surgery, but light activities can be resumed after 1-2 weeks.
  • Full recovery may take 3-6 months, with final results visible after swelling subsides.
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After the Procedure (Recovery and Results Timeline)

  • First Few Days: Swelling and discomfort are normal. Drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup.
  • 1 Week: Light activities may resume, but avoid strenuous exercise.
  • 2-4 Weeks: Swelling will start to subside, and many patients can return to work.
  • 4-6 Weeks: Gradual return to physical activities is allowed.
  • 3-6 Months: Full recovery and the final results will be seen as swelling and bruising subside.

Subtypes of Diastasis Recti Surgery

Diastasis Recti with Tummy Tuck

For patients looking for a more comprehensive solution, Diastasis Recti surgery is often combined with a tummy tuck to remove excess skin and contour the abdomen for a smoother, more defined look.

Mini-Diastasis Recti Repair

A less invasive procedure, this option is for patients with minimal muscle separation and no significant skin laxity. It focuses solely on muscle repair without the need for a full tummy tuck.

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Alternative or Related Procedures

If you’re considering alternatives to Diastasis Recti repair in Palo Alto, some related options include:

  • Non-Surgical Options: Body contouring treatments, like RF Microneedling (Morpheus8), can help reduce stubborn abdominal fat, though they do not address muscle separation.
  • Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): For patients with Diastasis Recti and excess skin or fat, a tummy tuck may be the best option, as it can address both issues simultaneously.
  • Liposuction: Targeted fat removal to contour the abdomen may be combined with Diastasis Recti surgery for a smoother, more toned appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have Diastasis Recti?

Can Diastasis Recti be treated without surgery?

Will I have scars after Diastasis Recti surgery?

What are the risks of Diastasis Recti surgery?

How long will it take to see the final results of Diastasis Recti surgery?

Can Diastasis Recti repair help with back pain or poor posture?

Is Diastasis Recti repair covered by insurance?

How does Diastasis Recti surgery differ from a tummy tuck?

Will Diastasis Recti surgery affect my ability to have children in the future?

How do I know if I have Diastasis Recti?

A physical exam by a surgeon or physician can determine whether you have abdominal muscle separation. Common signs include a visible bulge or gap along the center of the abdomen, especially when flexing or straining the muscles.

Can Diastasis Recti be treated without surgery?

In mild cases, physical therapy and targeted core-strengthening exercises may help reduce the separation. For more significant muscle separation, surgery is often the most effective and reliable treatment option.

Will I have scars after Diastasis Recti surgery?

Yes, there will be scarring along the incision line. However, incisions are typically placed low on the abdomen, often along the bikini line, to keep scars discreet. Dr. Graw’s technique focuses on minimizing and concealing scarring.

What are the risks of Diastasis Recti surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, risks may include infection, scarring, blood clots, and anesthesia-related complications. These risks are discussed in detail during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

How long will it take to see the final results of Diastasis Recti surgery?

Initial improvements are often visible within the first few weeks, but final results typically take several months. As swelling resolves and tissues heal, the most refined results usually appear around the 3–6 month mark.

Can Diastasis Recti repair help with back pain or poor posture?

Yes. Repairing Diastasis Recti restores core strength, which can improve posture and reduce lower back pain by providing better abdominal support and balance.

Is Diastasis Recti repair covered by insurance?

Diastasis Recti repair is usually considered cosmetic and is not covered by most insurance plans. In cases involving significant functional issues, such as chronic back pain or related medical complications, partial coverage may be possible. Coverage varies by policy.

How does Diastasis Recti surgery differ from a tummy tuck?

Diastasis Recti surgery focuses specifically on repairing separated abdominal muscles. A tummy tuck addresses excess skin and fat and is often combined with muscle repair for a more comprehensive abdominal contouring result.

Will Diastasis Recti surgery affect my ability to have children in the future?

The surgery does not prevent future pregnancies. However, pregnancy can cause the muscles to separate again. For the most durable results, many patients choose to wait until they are finished having children before undergoing surgery.

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