If your abdominal muscles have separated, you may have a more difficult time achieving the midsection that you desire. This means that even with proper diet and exercise, you may still struggle with the appearance of your abdomen.
If you are struggling with your abdominal muscles, it may be time to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. A.J. Khalil. Here, Dr. Khalil explains why abdominal muscles separate and how to repair them.
Why Abdominal Muscles Separate
Your abdominal muscles have a number of important functions. These muscles hold organs in place, provide vital support so that you can move and live an active life, and help with essential body functions. You have five main abdominal muscles: pyramidalis, rectus abdominus, external obliques, internal obliques, and transversus abdominis.
You are probably most familiar with your rectus abdominus muscles. This pair of muscles runs up the middle of the abdomen. The muscles can be seen as a “six-pack” in some people. When these muscles are together they provide stability and keep your organs in place.
It is possible for these muscles to separate. The most common causes of abdominal muscle separation are pregnancy and childbirth. Pregnancy can cause these muscles to stretch and eventually separate. Additional pressure from pushing during childbirth can cause the muscles to separate as well.
Pregnant women are not the only people who can experience abdominal muscle separation. It can occur at any time to both men and women for a number of reasons. These reasons may include obesity, doing certain exercises incorrectly, extreme weight fluctuations, and even heavy weightlifting
How to Repair Separated Abdominal Muscles
If you have concerns about separated abdominal muscles, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor can advise you of the best way to repair the separated abdominal muscles. In some instances, it may simply take time for the separated abdominal muscles to repair on their own. In other instances, certain exercises may help to repair the separated muscles.
Time and exercise are not solutions that work for everyone. For those patients, tummy tuck may be the best option. Tummy tuck can repair separated abdominal muscles and restore the appearance of a flatter, firmer abdomen. It can also be combined with other procedures for full mommy makeover.
Schedule a Consultation
You don’t have to live with separated abdominal muscles. We are here to help. If you are tired of living with your separated abdominal muscles and want to learn more about your tummy tuck options, then it is time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khalil. Please contact our office to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Khalil.
