Causes of abdominal protrusion beyond body fat

A protruding abdomen is not always caused by excess body fat. According to plastic surgeon Dr. Josué Montedonio, a member of the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery (SBCP), various changes in the abdominal wall can cause a ‘bloated’ appearance even in individuals with low body fat percentages.

One primary cause is abdominal diastasis, which involves the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles. This condition often occurs during pregnancy due to uterine growth, but can also result from significant weight fluctuations or genetic predisposition. Beyond aesthetic concerns, diastasis can lead to abdominal weakness, lower back pain, and postural issues.

Skin laxity and excess skin also contribute to the appearance of a protruding abdomen. Following significant weight loss or pregnancy, skin may lose elasticity and fail to return to its original shape, altering the abdominal contour regardless of fat levels.