Hi, I am a 51 year old female who had a tummy tuck 8 years ago. I was diagnosed with a diastatis recti without a hernia which looks like a huge lump above my navel and below my rib cage. I want this repaired. Do you have any suggestions for me. I live in Mays Landing, NJ.
Good day and thank you for your question. Dr. Monasebian, our Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, will be able to address your concerns. He would have to see you in person to examine your abdomen. After that, all options can be discussed. A diastasis can be surgically repaired and we can use your tummy scar to gain access. We would be happy to see you if you are in the New York City area. Medical insurance may help cover the costs of the procedure if deemed medically necessary which can be determined at your consultation. We look forward to meeting you soon.
Regards, Dr. Monasebian and Park Avenue Plastic Surgery.
It is unclear from your description if this is a diagnosis from an exam and/or a CTs scan or Ultrasound. If it is a diastasis the. A revision tummy tuck can treat that. You are best to come in for an evaluation in person. Best of luck. Hopefully we’ll see you soon
Sounds like the diastasic rectus failed or was not adequately addressed in your first procedure. A hernia may be present. A reverse abdominoplasty may address your extra skin and gain access to your abdomen for a flatter better looking tummy. Best to see an experienced plastic surgeon. I perform procedures and Morristown Medical center, which is one of the cleanest and safest facilities I am familiar with.
It is possible that you have a hernia.
It is possible that you have diasthesis due to original sutures not holding.
May need a CT Scan for diagnosis and plan of repair. Could mean another abdominoplasty, with hernia repair or repair of diasthesis.
Probably will not be covered by insurance. Self pay
Yes, I agree with all of the other answers. Especially, obtaining a CT scan to make sure you have diastasis recti and not some other condition. I have done this in another patient. The cat scan shows exactly where the repair needs to be and supports what I feel on physical exam. The cat scan is covered by insurance but the repair, if not a hernia, is not.
Good luck.
If further workup does verify that is is a diastasis, it can be approached through your tummy tuck incision. The gap in the muscles can be tightened (plicated). Any excess skin can be removed, scars revised and liposuction can be done at the same time, if needed.