Cosmetic Dermatology Procedures for Removing Stretch Marks
Pregnancy, rapid weight gain or extreme weight loss can result in unsightly scarring and discoloration called stretch marks, or striae distensae. Stretch marks occur anywhere on the body, but typically appear on the abdomen, hips, under arms, breasts, thighs, buttocks and lower back. A certified cosmetic dermatologist reduces the appearance or removes stretch marks enhancing your skin’s appearance through a variety of cosmetic procedures.
Lotions and Creams
- Certain over-the-counter and prescription lotions and creams can prevent or reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Daily application of lotions containing collagen hydrolysate, vitamin E and Gotu Kola extract have shown to reduce the chance of developing stretch marks.
- Prescription retinol creams such and isotretinoin, retinaldehyde and tretinoin reduce the appearance of stretch marks already on the body and promotes regeneration of skin cells. Special precautions need to be made when using these creams, which includes limiting sun exposure.
Dermabrasion
- Dermabrasion procedures performed by a dermatologist remove the outer layer of the skin with a special tool with an abrasive pad. This outpatient procedure requires local anesthesia and a sedative for the patient’s comfort. A numbing spray deadens the area for treatment. The cosmetic dermatologist then runs a high-speed, rotating tool with a rough head across the skin. Following the procedure, a scab forms and new, smoother skin replaces the treated area. Healing times vary from 8 to 12 weeks.
Fractional Laser Resurfacing
- Cosmetic dermatologist use fractional laser resurfacing to treat microscopic areas of the skin. This new technology uses an invisible laser beam which passes through the top layer of the skin making a microscopic wound in the collagen. As the wound heals the collagen regenerates and skin tightens reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
- Fractional laser resurfacing is an office procedure that takes approximately 30 minutes. The dermatologist uses a water-soluble dye to track the laser in a specified pattern. Optimal results require up to six treatments spaced one week apart. Final results are visible in 3 to 6 months.
Repigmentation Phototherapy
- Repigmentation phototherapy utilizes a machine which delivers concentrated ultraviolet-B, UVB, light rays into a focused area on the body. The rays only permeate the treatment area and not the healthy tissue surrounding the stretch marks. This procedure works by stimulating the production of melanin and melanocytes to change the pigmentation of the stretch marks to match the skin tone of the surrounding area.
- This in-office procedure requires no anesthesia and typically no discomfort or pain is associated with the treatment. Optimal results require 10 to 20 biweekly treatments. Monthly touch-up treatments may be necessary to maintain the pigmentation.
Tummy Tuck
- A surgical tummy tuck performed under general anesthesia permanently removes stretch marks on the lower abdomen left from significant weight loss or pregnancy. A surgeon cuts into the abdominal muscles and tightens them with surgical sutures. The excess skin is discarded, removing the stretch marks permanently.
- This procedure requires a hospital stay and post operative care. A tummy tuck procedure requires extensive healing time and can be quite expensive; however, it is the only proven procedure to remove stretch marks permanently.