What is diastasis recti?
It is separation of the muscles along the center of the abdomen, often following pregnancy or significant weight changes. A marked separation may cause a central bulge that does not improve with exercise alone.
Abdominal contouring
Tummy tuck in Guadalajara
A tummy tuck removes excess abdominal skin and may repair separation of the rectus abdominal muscles. Technique, candidacy and possible combination with liposuction are determined through individual evaluation.
Meet your doctor
Dr. José de Jesús Sánchez Juárez
University of Guadalajara · CUCS. Professional license #15073347. Private care and close follow-up at Hospital Real San José Valle Real in Zapopan.
About the doctorEducational information only; it does not replace a personalized medical evaluation. Results and recovery vary. COFEPRIS 253301201A2418.
Recognizing it
A common sign is a vertical central bulge when rising from a lying position. Diagnosis is confirmed by medical examination.
- It is not fat, so diet and liposuction do not correct it.
- It is different from a hernia, although both can coexist.
- Examination distinguishes the cause of abdominal volume and guides treatment.
When surgical repair may be considered
Exercise and physical therapy may help mild cases. With significant separation, a tummy tuck allows plication to close and reinforce the abdominal wall. This is often considered when diastasis persists, there is excess skin, weight is stable and planned pregnancies are complete.
What happens during the procedure
Through a low incision that is usually covered by underwear, the abdominal wall is repaired and excess skin is removed. The belly button may be repositioned when needed. In selected cases, flank liposuction is added to balance the contour.
Candidacy requirements
Candidacy is confirmed in consultation after reviewing anatomy, medical history and goals.
- Stable weight that can be maintained.
- Excess abdominal skin, diastasis recti or both.
- Good general health and controlled medical conditions.
- No smoking, or stopping sufficiently in advance as directed.
- Understanding that contour improves but a permanent low abdominal scar remains.
Who may need to wait?
Surgery may be postponed if further pregnancies or major weight loss are planned, medical conditions are uncontrolled or smoking cannot be stopped. If only localized fat is present without excess skin, another option may be appropriate.
Safety and recovery
Careful selection helps reduce risks. Smoking, obesity and combined procedures are assessed before scheduling. Recovery usually includes compression, relative rest, short walks and a gradual return to activity according to progress.
Tummy tuck pricing
No general price is published. Technique, hospital, supplies and individual needs determine the estimate after evaluation and surgical planning.
Frequently asked questions
Information for your decision
Can exercise correct diastasis?+
Mild cases may improve with exercise or physical therapy. Significant separation may require surgical plication.
Is diastasis the same as a hernia?+
No. They are different conditions that may coexist. Medical examination confirms the diagnosis.
Does liposuction repair diastasis?+
No. It treats localized fat but does not repair muscle separation.
What if I plan another pregnancy?+
It is usually advisable to wait until planned pregnancies are complete, since a later pregnancy may change the result.
Does smoking rule out surgery?+
Not necessarily, but stopping in advance is often required because smoking increases healing risks. Instructions are individualized.
What if I only have fat and no excess skin?+
Liposuction may be more appropriate than a tummy tuck. Evaluation distinguishes which procedure fits your needs.
How much does a tummy tuck cost?+
Hospital, technique, supplies and individual needs determine the personalized estimate after evaluation.
References
- Gutowski KA. Evidence-Based Medicine: Abdominoplasty. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2018.
- Seth AK, Lin AM, Austen WG, et al. Impact of Patient Subtype and Surgical Variables on Abdominoplasty Outcomes: A 12-Year Massachusetts General Hospital Experience. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2017.
Hospital Real San José Valle Real