Can a Mommy Makeover Help with Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy?

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Dr. Sean Kelishadi, M.D. FACS

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8/11/2025

After pregnancy, many women notice changes in their bodies that don't seem to improve with diet or exercise alone. One common concern is diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy, leaving a gap that can cause a bulging belly and core weakness. A mommy makeover with Dr. Sean Kelishadi at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA offers a comprehensive approach to address diastasis recti from pregnancy, along with other body changes like loose skin and unwanted fat. But how exactly does a mommy makeover work, and can it really help restore your pre-pregnancy body? 

What is diastasis recti, and how does it affect the body? 

Diastasis recti occurs when the two large parallel bands of muscles in the abdomen, called the rectus abdominis, stretch apart during pregnancy to accommodate the growing baby. This separation weakens the core and creates a visible bulge or "pooch" in the stomach area. Besides affecting appearance, diastasis recti can lead to lower back pain, poor posture, and difficulty with activities that require core strength. It often does not fully resolve on its own, especially after multiple pregnancies, which is why many women seek surgical options to repair the muscles. 

How does a mommy makeover address diastasis recti and other body changes? 

A mommy makeover typically combines several procedures tailored to restore a woman's body after pregnancy and childbirth. At SSK Plastic Surgery, this often includes a tummy tuck to repair diastasis recti by stitching the separated abdominal muscles back together, tightening the core. In addition to muscle repair, tummy tuck removes excess loose skin and can be paired with liposuction to reduce unwanted fat in the abdomen and surrounding areas. This combination helps smooth and contour the midsection for a flatter, firmer appearance. Mommy makeover can also address other areas like the breasts and hips to provide a full body contouring solution. 

What other benefits does a mommy makeover offer after pregnancy? 

Beyond fixing diastasis recti, a mommy makeover can improve confidence and comfort by:  

  • Removing stubborn fat that doesn't respond to exercise 
  • Tightening loose or sagging skin caused by pregnancy stretching 
  • Restoring a more youthful, natural shape to the abdomen and torso 
  • Improving posture and core strength through muscle repair 
  • Providing customized treatment that targets your unique body goals 

This holistic approach helps women feel like themselves again by reversing the common effects of pregnancy on the body. 

Ready to learn more about mommy makeover options for diastasis recti? 

If diastasis recti from pregnancy is impacting your confidence or comfort, Dr. Sean Kelishadi at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, offers expert care and personalized mommy makeover treatments to help restore your body. Combining muscle repair with body contouring techniques like liposuction and skin tightening, the mommy makeover can effectively address unwanted fat, loose skin, and muscle separation in one treatment plan. Schedule a consultation today to explore how a mommy makeover can help you regain a firmer, more sculpted abdomen and feel like yourself again.

Dr. Kelishadi is amazing!!! He made me feel so comfortable! I had Breast Augmentation  May 26th. I'm three months out and loving my results! I was very self conscious  about my chest. My breasts shrunk due to breast feeding. I didn't even want to change in front of my husband.  (he loved them no matter what lol) and now I am feeling so great about it! He said he's even noticed a boost in my confidence level. I love it! i feel good..i feel sexy. I never thought I  would actually go through with getting this done, but Dr. Kelishadi and his staff helped me with every step of the way. He was very caring and checked up on me after surgery. His staff was very nice as well. All so helpful! I highly recommend him!

J.V. Yelp

Words cannot describe how grateful I am to have met the SSK team.  I initially started with the med spa team at SSK and knew that I needed to do a breast augmentation consultation there as well.  From beginning to end, every single doctor/nurse and even Valerie at the front desk, involved in my procedures reached out giving clear instructions and also daily check-ins after my breast aug surgery.   Their patient care is beyond incredible.  The team gives you all of the instructions pre and post op, and they even go as far as giving you a sweet post op bag including the cutest, softest, coziest jump suit to wear into and out of the hospital on surgery day.  I am so so pleased with the team’s attention to detail, but more importantly, they are an exceptional care team you want and need!  Thank you SSK!  -Steph

S.D. Yelp

I recently had a breast revision/augmentation with a lift by Dr Kelishadi and I couldn’t have asked for a better surgeon! He is known as the King of Cleavage and definitely lives up to the name. His staff is friendly, professional, and prompt to answer calls and respond to emails. It was also super nice and convenient having Dr Sherry as part of the team helping with all the medications ordered. On my pre op visit, I was given a bag with all the medications I would need for my surgery and recovery. Dr Sherry would text and make sure I didn’t have any questions which was so appreciated. After my surgery, Dr Kelishadi would call and check in to make sure I was doing well. If I had a questions or concerns, Dr Kelishadi would promptly call and answer all the questions I had. He is genuinely a great person and an amazing Surgeon that I would highly recommend.

R.N. Yelp

I recently underwent a transformative experience at SSK Plastic Surgery, having a tummy tuck, muscle repair, and liposuction in the flanks and back. Being a mom to a 10 month old, I was pretty anxious about this procedure but right from my initial consultation, I was confident that I was in the hands of professionals who truly care. Now, just 3 days post-op, I caught a glimpse of my results and I’m beyond thrilled! Dr. Kalishadi’s skillful work has exceeded my expectations.On the day of the surgery, the entire team’s kindness helped alleviate any pre-surgery jitters. Dr. Kalishadi went above and beyond by personally reaching out to check on my recovery. Overall, my experience has been nothing short of amazing, and I couldn’t have chosen a better place for my procedure. I wholeheartedly recommend SSK Plastic Surgery to anyone seeking outstanding results and genuine care. Also shout out to Dr. Sherry, Valerie and Brianna who were also lovely! Thank you all so much!

L.G. Yelp

I recently underwent a breast revision procedure at SSK Plastic Surgery, and I must say that my experience far exceeded my expectations.  From start to finish, the entire journey was seamless, and I am absolutely thrilled with the results.  Here’s why I would wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Kelishadi for anyone considering breast revision: Dr. Kelishadi is an exceptional plastic surgeon.  From the initial consultation to the post-surgery follow-ups, Dr. Kelishadi displayed remarkable expertise and a genuine care for my well-being.  He took the time to listen to and provided me with detailed explanations of the procedure.  The entire team at SSK Plastic Surgery was welcoming, friendly and professional.  They made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process, and their knowledge and expertise to my needs were remarkable.  One aspect that truly impressed me was the personalized approach they took throughout the entire journey.  I even worked with Dr. Sherrie for my hormones prior to surgery and needless to say I feel much better now.  I felt that she too was invested in my overall health.  Lastly, when it came to deciding the appropriate size for my revision, I had to place my trust in Dr. Kelishadi’s expertise and technique.  I discussed my desired goals with him, and he carefully assessed my body proportions, existing breast tissue and overall aesthetic balance.  Although I had initial apprehension about relinquishing control over to the size decision, I am thrilled to say that I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.  The size chosen by Dr. Kelishadi was absolutely perfect!  I would highly recommend SSK Plastic Surgery!

D.V. Yelp

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