Muscle Repair (MR) is a specific surgical step performed to address internal structural weakness in the abdomen. This procedure is most commonly integrated into an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), though it can occasionally be performed alone. The goal of MR is to re-establish the integrity of the abdominal wall, restoring both a flatter appearance and functional strength to the core.
Understanding Muscle Repair
Muscle Repair directly addresses diastasis recti, the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (the “six-pack” muscles). These two vertical muscle bands are normally joined at the midline by the linea alba, a strong connective tissue. When the linea alba stretches and weakens, the muscles pull apart, creating a gap.
This separation is often caused by sustained, excessive pressure on the abdominal wall. Pregnancy is the most frequent cause, as the growing uterus stretches the tissue. Significant weight fluctuation or improper heavy lifting can also strain the abdominal wall. The resulting gap causes internal organs to push forward, creating a visible bulge that cannot be corrected through diet or exercise alone.
The Surgical Technique
The surgical correction of diastasis recti is technically known as fascial plication. After the surgeon creates the abdominoplasty incision and lifts the skin and fat layer, the stretched midline connective tissue is exposed. The surgeon then places a series of strong, non-absorbable sutures along the length of the separation, typically running from the sternum down to the pubic bone.
These sutures fold and tighten the lax fascia, effectively bringing the separated rectus muscles back together into their natural, central position. The procedure creates a reinforced internal corset, restoring the structural integrity of the abdominal wall. Depending on the degree of separation, the repair may involve one or more layers of sutures to ensure a durable correction.
Functional and Aesthetic Significance
Muscle Repair offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. Aesthetically, tightening the midline and cinching the waist creates a firmer, more defined abdominal profile. This restructuring eliminates the persistent central bulge of diastasis recti, which improves how clothing fits.
Functionally, the repair enhances core stability by reconnecting the main vertical support muscles. This improved structural support can alleviate symptoms like chronic lower back pain, which often develops when the abdominal wall is weakened. Patients frequently experience better posture and a stronger core, making everyday activities and lifting easier.
Post-Operative Expectations
Recovery from a procedure that includes Muscle Repair is generally more demanding than recovery from one that only removes skin and fat. The most common immediate sensation is significant muscle soreness and tightness, often described as feeling like an intense abdominal workout. This discomfort is due to the repair of the fascia and is managed with prescribed pain medication.
Patients must adhere to strict activity restrictions to protect the internal sutures while the tissue heals. For the first four to six weeks, this includes avoiding lifting anything heavier than a small weight and refraining from strenuous core activities. Wearing a compression garment or abdominal binder is mandatory; it provides continuous support to the healing abdominal wall and helps reduce post-operative swelling. Full recovery, where all restrictions are typically lifted, often takes approximately six weeks, although swelling may take several months to resolve.