Surgical repair of separation of the rectus abdominis muscles — most commonly seen after pregnancy and persistent despite postnatal exercise.
Rectus divarication (also known as diastasis recti) is the widening of the linea alba — the connective tissue running between the paired rectus abdominis muscles. It occurs in most pregnancies and resolves spontaneously in many women, but can persist with symptoms including a midline bulge, weakened core, lower back pain, and sometimes urinary or pelvic floor symptoms.
When conservative measures including physiotherapy have not resolved a symptomatic divarication, surgical repair may be appropriate. This involves suturing the rectus sheaths together along the midline to restore the abdominal wall.
This procedure may be considered for patients with:
Rectus divarication repair may be performed alone or as part of an abdominoplasty when there is also redundant skin. A Medicare item may apply where strict eligibility criteria are met.
Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights. A compression garment is typically worn. Heavy lifting and strenuous abdominal exercise are avoided for approximately six to eight weeks to allow the repair to heal.
Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.
All surgical procedures carry potential risks and complications, which will be discussed in detail at your consultation.