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Diastasis recti is a common condition that affects the abdominal wall, often resulting in a visible separation between the abdominal muscles. It is most frequently associated with pregnancy, but can also occur in men and women due to increased abdominal pressure over time.
For some individuals, diastasis recti presents as a noticeable bulge or lack of core definition, particularly when engaging the abdominal muscles. In others, it may be accompanied by symptoms such as core weakness, poor posture or lower back discomfort. The severity of the condition varies depending on the degree of muscle separation and overall tissue quality.
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, treatment for diastasis recti begins with a comprehensive assessment by Dr Wilson, evaluating both abdominal structure and functional concerns to create a personalised treatment plan.
About
What is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti refers to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (the “six-pack” muscles) along the midline of the abdomen. This occurs when the connective tissue (linea alba) that holds these muscles together becomes stretched and weakened.
As a result, the abdominal wall may lose its firmness and support, leading to a visible gap or bulge, particularly when the muscles are engaged. While the condition is not always painful, it can affect both appearance and core stability.
Symptoms
Diastasis Recti Symptoms
The symptoms of diastasis recti can vary depending on the degree of muscle separation and the strength of the abdominal wall. While some individuals may notice primarily aesthetic changes, others may experience functional concerns related to core stability.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- A visible bulge or ridge along the centre of the abdomen, particularly when sitting up or engaging the core
- A soft or rounded appearance of the abdomen that does not improve with exercise
- Difficulty activating or strengthening the core muscles
- A feeling of weakness or lack of support in the abdominal area
- Lower back discomfort or poor posture due to reduced core stability
- In some cases, associated issues such as pelvic instability or reduced overall strength
Symptoms may become more noticeable during activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as lifting, coughing or exercising.
Causes
What Causes Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti develops due to increased pressure within the abdominal cavity, which stretches and weakens the connective tissue over time. Several contributing factors may be involved:
Pregnancy
The most common cause of diastasis recti is pregnancy. As the uterus expands, it places pressure on the abdominal wall, stretching the connective tissue and causing the muscles to separate. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also soften connective tissues, increasing the likelihood of separation.
Significant Weight Fluctuations
Rapid weight gain or loss can strain the abdominal wall, weakening connective tissue and increasing the likelihood of muscle separation.
Abdominal Strain and Exercise
Improper lifting techniques or excessive abdominal strain can place repeated pressure on the core, potentially contributing to or worsening diastasis recti over time.
Genetic Factors
Some individuals are more predisposed to connective tissue laxity, making them more susceptible to muscle separation.
Age-Related Changes
As collagen levels decline with age, connective tissue becomes less resilient, which may contribute to the development or persistence of diastasis recti.
Treatment
When to Consider Professional Treatment for Diastasis Recti?
Treatment may be considered when diastasis recti affects abdominal appearance, core strength or overall comfort. Common concerns include a persistent abdominal bulge, difficulty engaging the core, or ongoing weakness despite exercise.
While targeted physiotherapy and core-strengthening exercises may improve mild cases, they are often not sufficient to fully correct more significant muscle separation. A professional assessment provides a clear understanding of the condition’s severity and whether surgical intervention may be appropriate.
Options
Diastasis Recti Treatment at Paul Wilson Aesthetics
Treatment for diastasis recti is tailored to the individual, depending on the extent of muscle separation, skin quality and overall abdominal structure. Mr Paul Wilson provides advanced surgical techniques designed to restore core integrity while improving abdominal contour.
In cases of more significant or severe diastasis recti, where the muscle separation is wider and unlikely to respond to exercise or physiotherapy alone, surgical repair is often the most effective solution. If a significant ventral hernia or umbilical hernia is present, Mr Wilson may enrol the services of a general surgeon to optimise your outcome.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty is the most effective surgical treatment for diastasis recti. During the procedure, the separated abdominal muscles are brought back together and sutured into their correct position, restoring strength and support to the abdominal wall.
In addition to repairing the muscle separation, excess loose abdominal skin may be removed to create a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. This approach addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns, providing long-lasting results.
Choose Us
Why Choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics for Diastasis Recti Treatment?
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, your care is grounded in safety, expertise and surgical integrity. Surgeries are performed by Mr Paul Wilson, an accredited Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with dual qualifications in medicine and dentistry.
His background in complex reconstructive surgery ensures a meticulous, anatomically driven approach, where patient safety and functional outcomes are always prioritised. Every treatment plan is personalised and carefully planned using advanced imaging technology to provide a clear, realistic understanding of what can be achieved.
From your initial consultation through to recovery, you are supported with a transparent, considered approach that focuses on realistic expectations rather than overpromising outcomes. Mr Wilson’s aesthetic philosophy centres on restoring and refining rather than altering, ensuring results that feel balanced and authentically you.
Supported by a dedicated team, you can expect a seamless and attentive patient experience, where your concerns are heard, your questions are answered, and your care is tailored at every stage of your journey.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you fix diastasis recti?
The most appropriate treatment for diastasis recti depends on its severity. Mild cases may improve with targeted physiotherapy and core-strengthening exercises designed to support the abdominal wall. However, more significant muscle separation typically requires surgical correction, such as abdominoplasty, to bring the muscles back together and restore core function.
How do you check for diastasis recti?
A simple self-check can be performed by lying on your back with your knees bent and gently lifting your head and shoulders slightly off the floor. Using your fingers, you can feel along the midline of your abdomen for a gap or separation between the muscles. While this may indicate a possible separation, a clinical assessment is recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the condition.
What does diastasis recti look like?
Diastasis recti often appears as a bulge or ridge running down the centre of the abdomen, particularly when the core is engaged. The stomach may also appear more rounded or protruded, even in individuals who are otherwise fit. The appearance can vary depending on the severity of the separation and the surrounding tissue.
What causes diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti is most commonly caused by pregnancy, where the abdominal wall stretches to accommodate the growing uterus. It can also occur due to weight fluctuations, repeated abdominal strain or natural weakening of connective tissue over time. In some cases, genetic factors may also play a role.
Can diastasis recti heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve over time, particularly with appropriate exercise and physiotherapy. However, more significant separation of the abdominal muscles usually does not fully resolve without surgical intervention. The extent of recovery depends on factors such as tissue quality and the degree of separation.
Do I need surgery for diastasis recti?
Not all cases require surgery. Individuals with mild symptoms may benefit from non-surgical management such as guided core rehabilitation. Surgery is typically considered when the separation is more pronounced, affects function or does not improve with conservative treatment.
Can diastasis recti cause back pain?
Yes, diastasis recti can contribute to lower back pain in some individuals. The separation of the abdominal muscles can reduce core stability, placing additional strain on the lower back and affecting posture. Addressing the underlying issue can help improve overall support and reduce discomfort.
Is exercise safe with diastasis recti?
Exercise can be beneficial, but it is important to follow appropriate techniques. Certain movements that place excessive strain on the abdominal wall may worsen the separation. A guided exercise programme from a qualified professional can help strengthen the core safely and effectively.
How much does diastasis recti surgery cost?
The cost of treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, the extent of muscle repair required and whether additional contouring is performed. A personalised quote will be provided following consultation, with a clear explanation of all associated costs.
Schedule your consultation
Book a consultation with Paul Wilson Aesthetics
Patients choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics for a combination of surgical expertise, honest guidance and a highly personalised approach to care. To get started, book a consultation where Mr Wilson will assess your concerns, discuss your goals and determine whether abdominoplasty is the most appropriate option for you.
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Breast Augmentation
A natural increase in volume — restoring shape after hypomastia
Hypomastia is the medical term for naturally underdeveloped breast tissue. It’s a recognised developmental variation, not a flaw — but for many women it affects how comfortable and confident they feel in their own body.
This patient, a mum of two with a completed family, had thought about augmentation for several years. Her request was simple and one I hear often: a natural, modest increase in volume and improved shape — not a dramatic change. On examination she had reduced upper-pole fullness in both breasts with good underlying symmetry.
Rather than reaching for a number, we planned this properly. Measurements, 2D and 3D imaging morphed to her chosen implant, external sizers tried on in clinic, and a home rice test to let her feel the volume for herself. Her choice: a 275cc round, moderate-profile Mentor micro-textured implant, placed subfascially through an inframammary incision — a plan designed to add soft upper-pole fullness in proportion to her petite frame.
You can see in the lateral and oblique views how the goal was balance, not bulk.
The psychological side matters just as much. In appropriately assessed patients, augmentation for hypomastia is consistently associated with improvements in body image, self-confidence and quality of life — and that outcome means as much to me as the surgical one.
Shared with this patient’s full consent.
Results vary from person to person. This is educational and not a recommendation to undergo surgery — any decision should follow a personal consultation.
📍 Address: 1400 Parkway North, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8YU (Northwood Hospital)
📞 Phone: +44 7480 125890
🌐 Website: paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
🕐 Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
#BreastAugmentationUK #Hypomastia #NaturalResults #PlasticSurgeon #BeforeAndAfter
Breast Augmentation
A natural increase in volume — restoring shape after hypomastia.
Hypomastia is the medical term for naturally underdeveloped breast tissue. It`s a recognised developmental variation, not a flaw — but for many women it affects how comfortable and confident they feel in their own body.
This patient, a mum of two with a completed family, had thought about augmentation for several years. Her request was simple and one I hear often: a natural, modest increase in volume and improved shape — not a dramatic change. On examination she had reduced upper-pole fullness in both breasts with good underlying symmetry.
Rather than reaching for a number, we planned this properly. Measurements, 2D and 3D imaging morphed to her chosen implant, external sizers tried on in clinic, and a home rice test to let her feel the volume for herself. Her choice: a 275cc round, moderate-profile silicone micro-textured implant, placed subfascially through an inframammary incision — a plan designed to add soft upper-pole fullness in proportion to her petite frame.
You can see in the lateral and oblique views how the goal was balance, not bulk.
The psychological side matters just as much. In appropriately assessed patients, augmentation for hypomastia is consistently associated with improvements in body image, self-confidence and quality of life — and that outcome means as much to me as the surgical one.
Shared with this patient`s full consent.
Results vary from person to person. This is educational and not a recommendation to undergo surgery — any decision should follow a personal consultation.
📍 Address: 1400 Parkway North, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8YU (Northwood Hospital)
📞 Phone: +44 7480 125890
🌐 Website: paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
🕐 Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
#BreastAugmentationUK #Hypomastia #NaturalResults #PlasticSurgeon #BeforeAndAfter
Happy Friday! Cycle to work day! #paulwilsonaesthetics #northwoodhospital #cycletowork #happyfriday #starbucks
Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty: What’s the Hype?
Traditional rhinoplasty shaves the hump off the top of your bridge, then rebuilds the roof. DPR lowers the bridge from underneath — keeping your natural dorsum fully intact. 👃
Why people love it 💕
✅ More natural front view (no widening!)
✅ Preserves your dorsal aesthetic lines
✅ Fewer grafts needed
✅ Quicker recovery & less bruising 🤍
✅ Smoother long-term results
The fine print 📝
⚠️ Hump recurrence is the #1 risk
⚠️ Best for straight noses with small/medium humps
⚠️ Technically harder — surgeon experience is everything
⚠️ Rare risks: saddle nose, radix step-off, asymmetry
The hype is real — if you’re a candidate. Always consult a surgeon fluent in BOTH techniques, not just the trendy one. 🤍
#rhinoplasty #dorsalpreservation #nosejob #facialplasticsurgery rhinoplastyjourney noseaesthetics
🦋From tension to transformation! This patient came to Mr Paul Wilson at Northwood Hospital with a classic tension nose — high radix, dorsal hump, an over-projected tip and a hanging columella. ✂️ The result? A natural dorsum, lowered radix, elevated tip and a normalised columella-labial angle.
Why choose Mr Paul Wilson at Northwood Hospital, Bristol? 👇
✅ Accredited BAAPS Plastic Surgeon
✅ Dual-qualified
✅ Preservation rhinoplasty specialist — less disruption, more natural outcomes
✅ Brand new, state-of-the-art CQC registered hospital
✅ Perfectly located in Bristol — easy reach from London & the South-West
Nature, meet refinement. 🏥✨
#Rhinoplasty #NoseJob #paulwilsonaesthetics #NorthwoodHospital #BAAPS #preservationrhinoplasty #aestheticsurgery #BeforeAndAfter #BeforeAndAfterRhinoplasty #FacialHarmony
Your nose is the focal point of your face — and even the subtlest refinement can bring everything into harmony. At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, our rhinoplasty procedures are tailored to your unique anatomy, enhancing your natural beauty rather than erasing it.
Performed under general anaesthetic at Northwood Hospital, each procedure typically takes 2–4 hours, with most patients returning to everyday life within 2–3 weeks. Final results continue to refine beautifully over the following months.
Whether you`re looking to refine a bump, reshape the tip, or improve overall facial proportion, Mr Paul Wilson brings a meticulous, artistic eye to every consultation and procedure.
BOOK A CONSULTATION ↗
#Rhinoplasty #NoseJob #RhinoplastyUK #FacialAesthetics #PlasticSurgery #NoseReshaping #CosmeticSurgery #PaulWilsonAesthetics #NorthwoodHospital #FacialSurgery #NaturalResults #SurgicalAesthetics #FacialHarmony #BristolSurgeon #Rhinoplasty2026 #BeforeAndAfter #ConfidenceRestored #AestheticSurgery #FacialRefinement #CosmeticSurgeonUK
Precision in motion. 🦴✨
Meet Paul Wilson — one of the rare surgeons holding dual qualifications in both dentistry and plastic surgery. That unique combination is on full display here, as Paul interprets dental imaging in real time while placing mandibular angle and chin implants.
Facial implant surgery is as much about artistry as it is anatomy. Having a deep understanding of the underlying bony architecture — the kind of knowledge that comes from a background in dentistry — allows for implant placement that’s tailored, precise, and harmonious with each patient’s natural facial structure.
From reading the CBCT scan on screen to refining the jawline and chin projection in the OR, every detail is considered. This is what dual expertise looks like in practice. 💙
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Facial implants for jawline and chin enhancement should always be performed by a qualified surgeon following a thorough consultation. Individual results vary.
#FacialImplants #JawlineSurgery #ChinImplant #PlasticSurgery #FacialAesthetics MandibularAngleImplant SurgicalPrecision PaulWilson AestheticSurgery FacialContouring. Ready to take the first step?
📞 Call us today to book your private consultation
💬 Or send us a DM — we’re happy to answer your questions
🔗 Tap the link in our bio to learn more and enquire
VASER 3D Liposuction @northwood_hospital goes beyond fat removal — it’s full-body sculpting. By targeting fat layer by layer, the technique works with your natural muscle structure to reveal definition, contour, and shape that looks athletic, not just slimmer.
Total definition. Considered from every angle.
Performed by Paul Wilson Aesthetics, every procedure begins with a detailed consultation to map your anatomy, understand your goals, and design a result that suits your body.
✔️ 3D high-definition contouring
✔️ Sculpting that follows your natural lines
✔️ Consultant-led, fully personalised
VASER is a surgical procedure. Results vary between individuals and a consultation is required to assess suitability.
📍 Northwood Hospital
📩 DM us or book your consultation via the link in bio
#vaser #HighDefinitionLipo #BodyContouring #PaulWilsonAesthetics #NorthwoodHospital
It was a great honour to present my experience on #hairlinelowering at the Royal College of Surgeons of England at the British Aesthetic Meeting, among esteemed colleagues. #northwoodhospital #plasticsurgery #hair #brow
⭐Patient Testimony⭐ #deepplanefacelift #cheekimplants #necklift #blepharoplasty #northwoodhospital
Gynaecomastia | Before & After
This procedure addresses excess fullness in the male chest caused by gland, fat, or a combination of both.
The aim is not simply to remove tissue, but to improve the overall chest shape for a balanced and natural appearance. As with any operation, success depends on choosing the right technique for the individual`s anatomy and careful surgical planning from the outset.
The initial result is just one stage of the process. Swelling gradually subsides, and the chest continues to refine as healing progresses.
Please take a moment to view the outcome.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
A neck lift is designed to address laxity beneath the chin and along the jawline.
Some patients are less concerned with their face itself, and more with the way their neck has changed over time. Loss of definition, heavier tissue, or loose skin in this area can affect overall facial balance.
A neck lift focuses on restoring a more defined contour through careful surgical planning, with the aim of achieving a result that looks natural for the individual.
As with any procedure, suitability depends on anatomy, skin quality, and the changes being treated.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
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