Can a Mommy Makeover Help with Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy?
Dr. Sean Kelishadi, M.D. FACS
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.
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