At The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts, we’ve had the privilege of helping many women restore their bodies after childbirth. While bringing a new life into the world is one of the most rewarding experiences, many moms are left wondering why they still look or feel pregnant months later. One common reason? A condition called diastasis recti.
Whether you're struggling with abdominal separation, stretched skin, or other post-pregnancy changes, a Mommy Makeover can help you feel like yourself again—strong, confident, and comfortable in your own skin.
What Is Diastasis Recti?
During pregnancy, your growing baby places increasing pressure on your abdominal wall. This often causes the two bands of muscles that run down the center of your abdomen (your rectus abdominis) to separate. That separation is known as diastasis recti.
While it can happen to anyone—especially with significant weight fluctuations—over 99% of diastasis recti cases occur in women who have gone through pregnancy.
Symptoms of Diastasis Recti
Every woman’s experience is unique, but symptoms of diastasis recti can include:
- A persistent abdominal bulge or “pooch”
- Visible separation or a gap down the center of your abdomen
- Lower back pain or poor posture
- Weakness or instability in your core
- Difficulty engaging your abdominal muscles
It’s important to understand that this isn’t just about appearance—it’s about function. A weakened core can affect your posture, physical comfort, and quality of life.
When Does Healing Happen?
The first six months postpartum is when your body has its best chance to heal naturally. During this time, we often recommend the use of a compression garment to support your abdominal muscles and help your body return to its pre-pregnancy shape as much as possible.
However, if the muscles don’t fully come back together on their own, additional treatment may be necessary.
How Can Diastasis Recti Be Treated?
At The Spiegel Center, we take a comprehensive and personalized approach to every Mommy Makeover. That includes both surgical and non-surgical options, depending on your needs, goals, and timeline.
Surgical Treatment: Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
The most effective treatment for diastasis recti is a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty. This procedure allows us to:
- Reconnect and tighten separated abdominal muscles
- Remove excess skin and fat
- Sculpt a flatter, smoother midsection
In many Mommy Makeover plans, a tummy tuck is paired with procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, or liposuction, depending on your specific concerns.
Non-Surgical Options for Diastasis Recti and Postpartum Changes
Not every patient is ready for or interested in surgery—and that’s perfectly okay. At The Spiegel Center, we also offer non-surgical treatments that can improve your core strength, skin tone, and overall appearance.
Some of these include:
1. Core-Focused Physical Therapy Referrals
We often work in conjunction with skilled physical therapists who specialize in postpartum recovery. These programs include tailored exercises that strengthen the deep core muscles and improve stability—sometimes helping to improve mild to moderate diastasis without surgery.
2. Radiofrequency Skin Tightening
If loose abdominal skin is your main concern, radiofrequency-based devices like BodyTite can tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production. These treatments are non-invasive, have no downtime, and are ideal for patients with good muscle tone but skin laxity.
3. Microneedling with Radiofrequency
Microneedling combined with radiofrequency (RF), like Morpheus8, can also be used to tighten postpartum abdominal skin, reduce stretch marks, and improve the texture and elasticity of your skin over time.
4. Lymphatic Drainage and Postpartum Massage
To reduce swelling and improve circulation, we may recommend lymphatic drainage massage. This is especially helpful in the early postpartum months and can complement both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
What Happens if Diastasis Recti Is Left Untreated?
While diastasis recti isn’t dangerous, it can lead to ongoing discomfort, poor posture, and dissatisfaction with your body’s appearance. In more severe cases, untreated muscle separation can contribute to hernias or more serious functional issues.
Addressing it—whether surgically or non-surgically—can significantly improve both your physical wellness and your confidence.
Can Diastasis Recti Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, diastasis recti can’t be completely prevented, even with excellent core strength before pregnancy. Genetics, baby size, the number of pregnancies, and your body’s natural response to stretching all play a role. What’s important to know is that effective treatments are available—and you don’t have to live with these changes forever.
What’s Included in a Mommy Makeover?
A Mommy Makeover at The Spiegel Center is customized to your body and your goals. It may include:
- Tummy tuck (to repair diastasis recti and remove excess skin)
- Breast lift or augmentation (to restore volume or correct sagging)
- Liposuction (to remove stubborn fat in areas like the abdomen or flanks)
- Skin tightening and rejuvenation treatments
- Facial rejuvenation (because moms deserve radiant skin, too!)
Reclaim Your Body—with Support Every Step of the Way
You’ve done something incredible—brought life into the world. Now it’s time to take care of yourself. Whether you're ready for surgery or want to start with non-surgical options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you're considering a Mommy Makeover in Boston, we invite you to schedule a consultation at The Spiegel Center in Newton, MA. Let’s talk about what’s possible—and create a personalized plan that fits your body and your lifestyle.
