What Role Does Muscle Repair Play in Mommy Makeover Results?

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Dr. Sean Kelishadi, M.D. FACS

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3/9/2026

Pregnancy can create lasting changes in the abdomen that exercise alone often cannot correct. At SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Sean Kelishadi explains that stretching during pregnancy can lead to diastasis recti, where the abdominal muscles separate along the center of the abdomen. This internal change may cause the midsection to appear rounded or weakened even after weight loss or consistent workouts. 

As part of cosmetic surgery after pregnancy, bringing those muscles back together helps rebuild the internal support structure of the abdomen. For many women considering a mommy makeover, addressing the underlying muscle separation can make a noticeable difference in the overall contour of the waistline. 

Why do abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy? 

During pregnancy, the growing uterus places steady pressure on the abdominal wall, gradually stretching both muscles and connective tissue. Over time, this pressure can cause the paired abdominal muscles to drift apart, resulting in diastasis recti. Even after delivery, the connective tissue may not fully tighten on its own, leaving a persistent bulge that does not respond well to core exercises. 

Many patients begin seeking answers for how to fix separated abdominal muscles after having a baby when they notice that strengthening workouts alone do not fully restore the shape of the abdomen. Surgical repair addresses the internal separation that often remains after pregnancy. 

Does a mommy makeover include muscle repair? 

This consideration often comes up when women notice abdominal weakness or a persistent bulge that developed during pregnancy. Newport Beam mommy makeover treatment plans are customized, but many procedures performed by Dr. Kelishadi include abdominal muscle repair surgery during the tummy tuck portion of treatment. 

This step tightens the abdominal wall while also removing excess skin that developed during pregnancy or weight fluctuations. The goal within postpartum body contouring is to improve abdominal structure while refining the external appearance of the waist. When these elements are addressed together, the midsection often appears smoother and more balanced. 

How does muscle repair improve mommy makeover results? 

Understanding how muscle repair improves mommy makeover results involves recognizing the role the abdominal wall plays in body shape and posture. Tightening the muscles beneath the skin helps create a firmer foundation for the midsection, allowing the abdomen to appear flatter and more toned. Many women also appreciate the benefits of muscle repair during mommy makeover surgery, which may include improved support for the core and better definition along the waistline. 

In cases where repairing separated abdominal muscles is necessary, restoring the internal structure can enhance the overall outcome of the procedure. This structural improvement helps create results that look more natural and proportionate. 

Rediscover a stronger, more sculpted midsection in Newport Beach 

For many patients, addressing muscle separation is an important part of achieving meaningful results from cosmetic surgery after pregnancy. At SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Sean Kelishadi designs personalized treatment plans that may include abdominal muscle repair surgery as part of a comprehensive mommy makeover approach. 

Rebuilding the abdominal wall can help restoring abdominal strength after pregnancy while also improving overall body contour. Patients who want to better understand their options for postpartum body contouring often begin with a one-on-one consultation. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and explore treatment options designed around your goals and anatomy.

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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