Can a Mommy Makeover Help With Diastasis Recti?
When pregnancy changes how your belly looks and feels, it’s easy to wonder if things will ever feel "normal" again. One of the issues that comes up, especially after multiple pregnancies, is a condition called diastasis recti. It’s more common than people think, and it can affect both how your belly looks and how strong your core feels from the inside.
Many people notice something is off when they still feel weak through the midsection months after giving birth. Others notice a bulge or softness in the belly that doesn’t go away with exercise. That's often when the idea of a mommy makeover starts to come up, especially for those looking to feel strong again and more like themselves. A procedure like this can support both appearance and function, and it’s worth understanding the connection.
What Is Diastasis Recti and How Does It Feel?
Diastasis recti happens when the two long bands of muscle running down your stomach, your rectus abdominis muscles, pull apart. This separation makes your abdominal wall weaker and can change the shape of your belly. It’s especially common during or after pregnancy, when the growing baby stretches the area.
Some people don’t notice it right away. Others feel it when trying to do things like sit-ups, pick up a toddler, or stand up from bed. Common signs include:
• A bulge or pooch in the center of the belly, especially when muscles are flexed
• Low back pain or poor posture
• A feeling of weakness or pressure in your core when lifting or bending
• Trouble regaining core strength even with workouts
While it doesn’t happen to everyone, the risk increases with each pregnancy or if you’re carrying multiples. Older age, smaller body frames, and genetics can also play a role.
How a Mommy Makeover May Address Diastasis Recti
A mommy makeover often combines a few procedures into one surgery, and fixing diastasis recti can be a key part of it. The most direct way this condition is treated surgically is through a tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty. It doesn’t just deal with extra skin or fat, it includes repairing the muscle separation underneath.
During this step, we reconnect the abdominal muscles with sutures to bring them back together. This creates a stronger foundation that supports posture and core function. It’s a step beyond what workouts like crunches or planks can do, especially when the muscle tissue has stretched past the point of natural healing.
Some patients notice they stand taller or feel more supported through the middle after recovery. And since this repair happens internally, it helps create a flatter, smoother surface on the outside too.
At Black Swan Plastic Surgery in Orlando, Florida, our mommy makeover can include tummy tuck, breast surgery, and liposuction in one carefully planned combination procedure for maximum body transformation.
What to Expect During Surgery and Recovery
When a tummy tuck is part of a mommy makeover, the procedure usually involves removing excess skin and fat, tightening the abdominal wall, and repositioning the skin for a natural shape. Muscle repair adds some time and care to the overall process, but many people feel it’s worth it for the long-term improvement.
Recovery involves rest, walking gently, and avoiding anything that strains your body. You’ll likely need help with everyday tasks for at least a week or two. Common steps during recovery include:
• Wearing a compression garment to support healing
• Taking time off from lifting and strenuous activity for 4 to 6 weeks
• Following guidelines for sitting, sleeping, and moving safely
Many patients say winter recovery is more manageable. In a place like Florida, early December means cooler temperatures without the snow or deep chill that hits other parts of the country. Staying comfortable during rest, wearing layered clothing, and healing at home without summer heat can make a difference in how the first weeks feel.
Our practice focuses on concierge-level care, so each recovery includes detailed aftercare instructions, guidance on safe movement, and easy follow-up with Dr. Fernando Ovalle Jr. for support every step of the way.
Why Choosing the Right Surgeon Matters
A mommy makeover is more than one single procedure, it requires careful planning, a deep knowledge of anatomy, and attention to individualized goals. That’s why it matters to choose someone who is double board-certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery.
Muscle work like repairing diastasis recti isn’t just about visual outcomes. It involves understanding how the inner structure of the body functions and how to safely support it. A qualified surgeon will look at your skin, your core strength, your past surgeries, and your goals. No two post-baby bodies are alike, so your plan shouldn’t be either.
We take that extra time up front to explain what's possible and what recovery requires. The difference shows up in how confidently patients can move post-surgery and how steady the results feel.
Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again
Getting back in touch with your body after pregnancy is a personal path. For many people, core weakness and belly changes aren’t just cosmetic. They affect posture, movement, and how you feel in your clothes. A mommy makeover doesn’t just reshape the outside, it can help reconnect your body’s strength from the inside out.
With plans already forming for the new year, December is a smart time to start thinking ahead. If you're feeling physically off or emotionally disconnected from how your body works after pregnancy, this might be the right window to make a lasting change.
At Black Swan Plastic Surgery, we understand how important it is to regain strength and confidence after pregnancy. When your core doesn't feel fully restored or your belly hasn't responded as you hoped, exploring the possibilities of a well-planned procedure like a mommy makeover can help improve both form and function. We believe every body deserves personalized care and thoughtful planning for the best possible results. If you're ready to explore your options, now is an excellent time to reach out to our team!
