Rectus diastasis (diastasis recti) occurs when the abdominal muscles separate. It usually happens during pregnancy and affects as many as 6 in 10 women during that time. While the muscles may return to normal in some cases, many women are left with embarrassing and frustrating abdominal distension, even long after delivering their baby.
With severe rectus diastasis, the problem doesn’t improve with diet and exercise alone. If you’ve tried strengthening your core without success, you may be a candidate for a specialized surgery: a mesh suture abdominoplasty.
Dr. Gregory Dumanian, a leading expert in abdominal wall reconstruction, offers this advanced approach to repair severe rectus diastasis. With more than 35 years of experience, he is also the inventor of the FDA-approved Duramesh mesh suture, designed for superior abdominal closures.
As the inventor, Dr. Dumanian has more experience with this new surgical device than almost anyone in the world. His high-level expertise ensures our patients get the highest standard of care and the most effective, lasting results. Duramesh is now sold widely around the United States, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, France, Turkey, Mexico, and elsewhere around the world.
Understanding Rectus Diastasis
Rectus diastasis, or diastasis recti, occurs when the left and right rectus abdominis muscles separate along the midline of the abdomen. This often happens during the third trimester of pregnancy, when the baby’s growth puts considerable pressure on the abdominal muscles and other tissues.
Symptoms of rectus diastasis include:
- Bulge or “pooch” in the lower abdomen
- Weakened core muscles, often triggering lower back pain
- Difficulty maintaining good posture
- Difficulty using core muscles during exercise
- Reduced overall abdominal strength
Some women also experience other issues, like urine leakage and constipation.
How Does a Mesh Suture Abdominoplasty Work?
In a traditional abdominoplasty or tummy tuck, Dr. Dumanian removes extra skin and tightens the muscles underneath using small sutures. Unfortunately, standard tummy tuck sutures might not provide enough long-lasting reinforcement. Traditional sutures run the risk of “pull-though,” in which the suture’s sharp edge slices the tissue it’s supposed to hold together. This can lead to suture failure and a return of bulging.
That’s where the mesh suture comes in. Better than a standard suture but with far less problems than a sheet of mesh, Duramesh mesh suture is used to repair the abdominal muscle separation. It can even be used to repair umbilical, epigastric, incisional, and other types of ventral hernias at the same time.
Dr. Dumanian designed Duramesh to seamlessly integrate with the body’s tissues, providing strength while maintaining flexibility. This allows for a very natural feel after healing. These are internal muscle sutures, so they’re not seen or felt after placement.
A mesh suture abdominoplasty can help your abdominal muscles work the way they’re meant to again. At the same time, you get a flatter, more contoured abdomen.
Mesh Suture Abdominoplasty Consultations in Chicago, IL
If you’re struggling with severe post-baby rectus diastasis, mesh abdominoplasty could be the right solution for you. Dr. Gregory Dumanian and our Chicago, IL team offer expert care tailored to your needs. Call 312-695-6022 to schedule a consultation.