A “belly pooch” is the term given to extra skin and fat that hangs around the lower midsection. It can be caused by major life events—such as pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations. What some people may not know, however, is that exercise and healthy eating alone may not correct this issue.
If you’ve been struggling to get your “old body” back, your answer may be a tummy tuck. Our patients from Grapevine, Fort Worth, and beyond have enjoyed using this treatment to regain the firm, toned tummy they’ve always wanted.
What creates a belly pooch?
There are many reasons people may grow a bit larger around the belly area. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress are all common causes of belly fat. But sometimes, going up a few pant sizes isn’t due to an unhealthy lifestyle. Many people, especially those who have been pregnant, realize they have a stubborn “bulge” that doesn’t respond to nutritious foods or cardio.
In these cases, the belly pooch is often created by an issue known as diastasis recti. Diastasis recti is a condition where the right and left abdominal muscles have separated from one another, causing a protruding bulge along the lower midsection. This sometimes happens during pregnancy due to a growing baby placing pressure on the abdominal muscle wall. It can also be created by yo-yo dieting or improper form during intensive exercises such as weight lifting.
Are there nonsurgical ways to fix diastasis recti?
Nonsurgical treatments for diastasis recti include yoga, physical therapy, and other gentle movements that strengthen the core. Ab-focused exercises such as sit-ups and planks should be avoided as they put too much stress on the weakened muscles. But diet and careful exercise alone often won’t solve the issue. If the muscle bands do not naturally correct themselves over time, then surgery is the only full solution.
How can diastasis recti be fixed with a tummy tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery is the best way to fix serious cases of diastasis recti because it goes right to the source: the misplaced abdominal muscles. During surgery, supportive stitches are placed between the right and left sides, giving support and helping direct the muscle bands back toward one another.
This process recreates a solid core and eliminates the protruding belly pooch. Many patients also enjoy the other benefits of a tummy tuck, such as removing loose, saggy skin and unwanted fat.
If you’ve ever struggled with a stubborn belly pooch, don’t worry—a tummy tuck may be the answer you’ve been looking for. Browse our before-and-after gallery to see real examples of our tummy tuck patients’ results.
If you would like to learn more from a plastic surgeon in the Fort Worth area, request a consultation online. You can also contact our practice office by phone at (817) 442-1236.