Fractional laser resurfacing stretch marks before and after

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As a result of recent innovations in the field of cosmetic dermatology, patients have greater access than ever before to the latest safe and effective non-invasive solutions for stretch mark removal. Laser skin resurfacing treatments have become the number one mechanism for eliminating the appearance of stretch marks on the body, by triggering the production of new collagen and elastin in the dermis of the skin. The result of this new collagen is a reduction in the visible scar tissue associated with stretch marks. In her private dermatology office, located in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, Dr. Green utilizes a myriad of cutting-edge laser treatments to effectively improve the appearance of stretch marks including the VBeam laser, eMatrix sublative laser, Fraxel laser, and microneedling.

A stretch mark is similar to a scar that occurs in response to the rapid stretching or shrinking of skin. Stretch marks may develop as a result of sudden weight gain or weight loss, a rapid growth spurt, pregnancy, puberty, bodybuilding, or even as a side effect of taking certain medications. It is characterized by the appearance of extended depressions that may be white or red in color. The presence of stretch marks can often make one feel self-conscious about their appearance and seek stretch mark removal. Men and women of any age group may be affected by the development of stretch marks and have expressed cosmetic concerns that stretch marks have prevented them from wearing certain types of clothing. Stretch marks most commonly appear on the stomach, thighs, buttocks, breasts, and arms. The gold standard for stretch mark removal is laser treatment, with Dr. Green in NYC an expert in this cosmetic treatment.

Dr. Michele Green in NYC is an internationally recognized expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of experience providing her patients from around the globe with the best non-invasive treatments available. Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine consistently name Dr. Green as one of NYC’s best dermatologists for her expertise when it comes to Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, microneedling, acne/ acne scar treatment, stretch mark removal, and more. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to customize your treatment approach so that it is best suited to your personal needs and goals, providing you with optimal cosmetic results.

What are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, also known as striae distensae or striae atrophicus, are scars that form in the dermis and occur when collagen and elastin fibers in the skin tear. The dermis is the layer of the skin containing the connective tissue. Collagen and elastin are proteins in the body that provide the skin with strength and elasticity, but when the skin stretches too quickly or is overstretched, they can become damaged and lead to stretch marks. Stretch marks may form in response to changes in various hormone levels, genetic disposition, rapid growth spurts, pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, and rapid loss or gain of muscle. When stretch marks first appear on the skin, they are often raised lines that are red, pink, or purplish in color.

Their initial color is due to the increased amount of blood flow to the area which is triggered by the damage to collagen and elastin. Over time, as the skin heals, the color fades and leaves a white or silver line in the previously red line. The process of stretch marks fading in color, from red to white, typically occurs within six to twelve months of their onset. It is recommended that patients undergo stretch mark treatment at the beginning of their initial onset, when the likelihood of successful stretch mark removal is much higher. It is much easier to remove the red stretch marks with laser treatments compared to later stages of scarring or white stretch marks. Although it can be more of a challenge to successfully reduce the appearance of white stretch marks, there are still non-invasive cosmetic treatments available that can be used to help. Dr. Green in New York City is an expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology and can recommend the treatments that are best-suited to address your particular concerns and will leave you with smooth, clear, beautiful skin that lasts.

Fractional laser resurfacing stretch marks before and after

Stretch Mark Removal: Syneron Candela (photo after two treatments)

What are the risk factors for developing stretch marks?

There are several potential risk factors that can contribute to the development of stretch marks, many of which are not easily preventable. Stretch marks most commonly develop when your body is going through changes such as puberty, growth spurts, weight gain or loss, and pregnancy. Genetics can also play a role in whether or not you develop stretch marks at a given time and whether they fade on their own. More specifically, risk factors include the following:

  • Puberty – As teenagers go through puberty, their bodies go through many transformations. Sudden, or rapid growth spurts can lead to the formation of stretch marks as well as the development of secondary sex characteristics, such as breasts for teenage women. During puberty, stretch marks most commonly appear on the back, hips, and knees. 
  • Rapid Weight gain – Gaining weight quickly in a short amount of time can lead to stretch marks on the skin, most commonly on the stomach, buttocks, thighs, and under the arms. 
  • Obesity – Gaining a significant amount of weight such that a patient becomes obese (meaning you have a body mass index, or BMI, of over 30) is also a risk factor for the development of stretch marks. The risk for developing stretch marks as a result of obesity is higher if the weight is gained very quickly. 
  • Pregnancy – The body goes through many significant changes during pregnancy, which can be a risk factor for developing stretch marks. Hormones levels are in flux, which can decrease skin elasticity, while at the same time, the skin on the abdomen is stretching along with the growing fetus. As such, stretch marks most commonly occur on the stomach and breasts but can also develop on the thighs, underarm, and buttocks depending on where pregnancy weight is carried. 
  • Oral Steroid use – Some oral steroids, also known as corticosteroids, can decrease the elasticity of the skin. As a result, the skin is less able to stretch without rupturing and causing stretch marks to appear. 
  • Bodybuilding – Bodybuilding is a practice in which a person gains muscle, typically in a short amount of time. A result of gaining muscle, or fat, in a short time period can be stretch marks where the elastin in the skin cannot keep up with the rapid growth. 
  • Genetics – There is a strong genetic component to the development of stretch marks. Your family history can be an indication of whether stretch marks will develop and whether or not they will fade on their own.  
  • Ethnicity – patients with lighter skin types are more likely to develop stretch marks than individuals with darker skin tones. 

What is the appearance of stretch marks?

Initial appearance:  Stretch marks originally appear as red bands, stripes, or lines. They generally appear when the skin is rapidly growing or stretching. Typically, stretch marks appear as parallel streaks of red, thin, shiny skin. These stretch marks most commonly appear on the breasts, arms, hips, thighs, buttocks, flanks, and abdomen.

Later appearance:  Stretch marks later appear as white linear scars and replace the red parallel lines.  The appearance of stretch marks at this later stage is like long depressed scars with a different texture from that of normal skin.

Where do stretch marks typically appear on the skin?

  • Breasts
  • Arms
  • Hips
  • Thighs
  • Buttocks
  • Flanks
  • Abdomen
  • Lower back

Dr. Green utilizes the best stretch mark removal treatments in her NYC private office to remove the appearance of these striae in all skin types.

Can you get rid of stretch marks with laser?

Yes! Many patients express that their stretch marks have been unresponsive to over the counter creams and lotions in the past, and worry that nothing might be able to help. Stretch marks have always been a very challenging skin concern to treat, however, there have been huge advancements made in the field of cosmetic dermatology and the laser technology used for stretch mark removal. Fortunately, patients can get the cosmetic results that they desire by taking advantage of non-invasive laser treatments designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Combining treatments of the V-Beam laser with Fraxel or eMatrix laser treatments is considered to be the gold standard when it comes to removing stretch marks.

Dr. Michele Green uses the best non-invasive laser treatment options available for stretch mark removal in her private NYC office. Depending on the presentation of your stretch marks, your skin type, and skin tone, Dr. Green will assess which combination of lasers and treatments will provide you with the best cosmetic results and successfully eliminate your stretch marks. In addition, she will advise you on the best skincare to use, skin lightening lotions and serums to use in combination with your laser treatment to effect the best cosmetic results. There are different treatment options for stretch mark removal, based on the type of stretch marks, the color, and your skin type.

How does laser stretch mark treatment work?

Laser treatment has become incredibly popular in the world of cosmetic dermatology and can be an extremely effective option for addressing a variety of skin conditions, including the appearance of stretch marks. There are two general types of laser treatments: ablative treatments, which creates micro-injuries on the surface of the skin, and non-ablative treatment, in which beams of light target the inner layer of the skin. The type of laser treatment that is best for you will be dependent upon the specific skin concerns and cosmetic goals you present with, as well as your skin type, skin tone, and the amount of downtime that you can afford after treatment. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your condition and recommend the type of laser treatment that is most appropriate, safe, and effective. For stretch mark removal treatment with laser, Dr. Green will apply the laser to the area of the skin in which stretch marks are visible. The laser releases pulses of light which heat the layer of skin to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. By stimulating the production of new structural proteins in the skin, the laser can reduce the scar tissue and lead to smooth skin that is free of visible stretch marks. For this reason, laser treatment is sometimes also referred to as laser skin resurfacing.  

Dr. Green employs the use of several different types of laser treatments in her office to target stretch marks in their different phases. For newer stretch marks, which are still in the phase of being red or pink, Dr. Green typically utilizes the V-Beam laser. The V-Beam targets red pigment in the skin, which absorbs the energy from the laser beam and is destroyed while the surrounding skin is left unharmed. Patients who are struggling with the appearance of older stretch marks which have faded to white, depressed scars, Dr. Green may recommend either treatment with Fraxel laser or eMatrix laser. These laser treatments induce new collagen production by stimulating the natural wound healing process of the skin through the creation of controlled, targeted micro-injuries in the skin.

Fractional laser resurfacing stretch marks before and after

VBeam for stretch mark removal – 5 months

VBeam Laser and Stretch Mark Removal

The VBeam laser is a pulsed dye laser which utilizes cutting edge laser technology to deliver a concentrated beam of light energy to the stretch marks.  It is the best laser to use on these earliest appearing, red and violaceous, stretch marks. The thermal energy reaches the target areas of redness in the blood vessels and destroys them. The VBeam laser is the gold standard for treating these red stretch marks.  The intense light energy generated by the VBeam, in terms of heat, selectively eliminates the redness in the stretch marks while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected

There are different settings on the V-Beam laser which Dr. Green will adjust based on your skin type, the location of your stretch marks, and the color of your stretch marks.  Some stretch marks require higher energy settings to remove them and may lead to bruising in the treated area with some minimal cosmetic downtime. The V-beam laser technology is equipped with cryogen, a cooling agent, which minimizes any discomfort.  For those patients more sensitive, a topical numbing cream can be applied to the treatment area before the pulsed dye laser treatment.

A single session of VBeam for stretch mark removal treatment typically lasts fifteen to thirty minutes, depending on the size and location of the stretch marks. Strict sun avoidance and sunscreen use is required before and after treatment with the pulsed dye laser, as the VBeam laser should not be done on tanned skin. Patients should avoid the sun after treatment until the treated area heals. In addition, lotions and moisturizes should be used daily after the VBeam treatment.  In general, there are no side effects associated with VBeam therapy and patients can return to their daily activities immediately following the laser treatment. It typically takes 4 to 6 sessions of treatment of stretch marks with the pulsed dye laser to restore new skin cells and produce healthy skin by generating new collagen production.

Resurfacing laser treatment for stretch mark removal

Laser skin resurfacing treatments, such as the Fraxel laser, are considered to be one of the most effective types of cosmetic intervention for stretch mark removal. This type of stretch mark removal treatment works by stimulating new collagen production in the dermal layers of skin. Stretch marks are scars that occur when collagen and elastin in the dermis are damaged due to rapid overstretching, and laser resurfacing treatment entails the stimulation of new collagen and elastin production in the skin. Laser resurfacing treatments can effectively reduce the scar tissue and lead to smooth skin that is free of visible stretch marks. Fraxel and eMatrix are the two types of laser resurfacing treatments most often recommended by Dr. Green for safe and effective treatment of stretch marks. These treatment modalities are detailed further in the following sections.

Fraxel Laser and Stretch Mark Removal

The Fraxel® Dual laser is an FDA approved laser therapy designed for treating a myriad of skin conditions including scars, hyperpigmentation, acne marks, sun spots, leg veins, and stretch marks. Fraxel is a fractional laser, meaning that it only treats a fraction of the skin tissue at a time. The Fraxel laser is used to create controlled, targeted microscopic wounds in the dermal layers of the skin while leaving the surrounding skin tissue intact. This treatment triggers the natural wound healing process of skin, which entails the stimulation of new collagen production. When it comes to treating the appearance of stretch marks, Fraxel is best suited to reducing white and depressed stretch marks. By replenishing collagen in the skin and creating new, healthy skin cells, Fraxel resurfacing laser can result in a smooth, clear complexion that lasts.

Dr. Green in NYC often utilizes the Fraxel and VBeam lasers together to target multiple visible aspects of stretch marks. The VBeam effectively reduces redness associated with the stretch marks if present, while the resurfacing aspect of the Fraxel laser improves the texture of the affected area of skin. There are two wavelengths of light, 1550 and 1927, that allow Fraxel to target a wide array of skin conditions. The 1550 wavelength of the Fraxel laser is best utilized to perform stretch mark removal and promote new collagen growth. The Fraxel laser is most commonly used for fractionated skin resurfacing of the face, but it is equally successful in treating surgical scars, acne scars, and stretch marks all over the body. It generally takes between 4 and 6 treatments, spaced one month apart, to significantly improve the appearance of stretch marks and rejuvenate skin, producing new healthy skin cells. 

One of the benefits that patients enjoy most about having laser treatment with VBeam and Fraxel is that there is essentially no downtime involved. Fraxel, just like many other types of resurfacing lasers, should not be used on tanned skin in order to prevent unwanted side effects. Patients should adhere to strict sun avoidance and use proper sunscreen application in the two weeks before and after their Fraxel laser treatment.

eMatrix Laser treatments for Stretch Mark Removal

The eMatrix™ laser is an exceptionally effective treatment for stretch mark removal.  eMatrix is a non-ablative laser which utilizes radiofrequency to deliver heat to the dermis and stimulate new collagen.  As more collagen is formed within the dermal layer, the texture of the skin becomes smoother and the appearance of the stretch marks diminished. The heat from the eMatrix breaks up the scar tissue of the stretch marks to perform stretch mark removal. The eMatrix works by restoring healthy skin tone and appearance. This is why the eMatrix is so successful in treating all types of scars, including surgical scars, and acne scars.

Stretch marks are, in effect, scars on the skin, and the eMatrix is the only sublative technology proven to reduce stretch marks and acne scars of all skin types.  One of the most important advantages of the eMatrix laser is that it is a “color blind” laser and patients of all skin types can have their stretch marks removed with this laser treatment, without worrying about the side effects of hyperpigmentation. The eMatrix is in effect, a collagen-building laser, which leads to dermal remodeling, and rejuvenated skin. 

Fractional laser resurfacing stretch marks before and after

What are other types of stretch mark removal treatment?

Laser stretch mark treatment is extremely effective and often considered the gold standard treatment for stretch mark removal. It is not the only stretch removal option, however, and Dr. Green performs a variety of different treatments. When you have your initial consultation appointment with Dr. Green, the two of you will determine the treatment or series of treatments that will be most effective for your specific needs. Other cosmetic treatment options for stretch mark removal are described in the following sections.

Sculptra Injections

Sculptra Aesthetic is a unique type of dermal filler that is composed of a substance called Poly-L-Lactic acid. Sculptra is injected by Dr. Green directly into depressed stretch marks that are white in color. During the injections, Dr. Green may perform subcision- a procedure whereby the needle of the syringe is used to break apart underlying scar tissue. Once injected, Sculptra stimulates the production of new collagen in the skin. The collagen that is created provides the skin with enhanced structural support as well as the volume needed to smooth the skin’s surface and reduce the appearance of the stretch marks or scars. To achieve optimal cosmetic results in regard to stretch mark removal, patients typically require three treatments of Sculptra injections that are spaced one month apart. It takes several weeks for the initial results of Sculptra to become apparent, and after completing a short series of treatments the results can last for up to two years. Dr. Green has been using Sculptra injections to treat acne scars with the best results and utilizes this same process for successful stretch mark removal.

Carboxytherapy for Stretch Mark Treatment

Carboxytherapy is the process of carbon dioxide being injected into the subcutaneous tissue using a 30g needle. This treatment works by destroying the fat cells in the treated area and dilating the blood vessels. The dilation of the blood vessels causes more blood flow to skin tissues and cells. The increased oxygen to the skin tissue helps repair the skin’s collagen matrix which results in firmer, healthier looking skin. Carboxytherapy is safe and effective with no restrictions pre and post treatment. It is used both to treat stretch marks and cellulite.

Fractional laser resurfacing stretch marks before and after

Microneedling for Stretch Mark Removal

Microneedling, also referred to as collagen induction therapy, is another treatment option commonly used for stretch mark removal. During a microneedling procedure, a handheld device containing tiny insulated needles is applied to the skin’s surface to create microscopic punctures in the skin. As the skin heals itself, new collagen is produced. The damaged collagen fibers associated with stretch marks are repaired and the depressions restored with volume. Patients undergoing microneedling treatments for stretch mark removal typically require at least three treatment sessions to improve the appearance of the stretch marks. The microneedling wand used for treatment can be adjusted so that the depth of the needles is appropriate for the anatomic area of the body which needs treatment. After the treatment you will see improvement in the depth and texture of the stretch marks.

Microdermabrasion and Stretch Mark Treatment

Microdermabrasion has been used in past years to treat stretch marks. It is a painless procedure which stimulates the epidermis to stimulate and tighten the skin to produce new collagen. Microdermabrasion is much less successful in stretch mark removal as the other newer laser treatments available.

Pregnancy and Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are commonly associated with pregnancy. During pregnancy, the skin stretches and there are many hormonal changes occurring. Stretch marks that are related to pregnancy typically appear on the abdomen, flanks, and breasts. Skin stretching during pregnancy is uncontrollable, and it can be difficult to prevent stretch marks from forming. The best tactic is to try to gain weight at a slow and controlled pace over the course of your pregnancy, and moisturize the areas as well. After giving birth, if you are not breast feeding, you can have stretch mark removal with laser treatment. If is best to have the stretch marks treated as soon as possible, when they are new and red in appearance.

Surgery after Pregnancy

Some patients are unhappy with their abdominal stretch marks, as well as the skin laxity in the abdomen after pregnancy and opt for a tummy tuck. This type of plastic surgery involves removing the extra skin and tightening up the abdominal muscles surgically. This invasive surgical procedure requires a board certified plastic surgeon under general anesthesia with a significant amount of downtime.

Fractional laser resurfacing stretch marks before and after

What is the cost of laser stretch mark removal in NYC?

When patients ask, how much does laser stretch mark removal cost, the answer is: it depends. The cost of stretch mark treatment is contingent on the number of laser treatments needed and the appearance and size of your stretch marks. Generally speaking, stretch mark removal is not an immediate process, and takes several laser treatments spaced one month apart, to allow the skin to heal and new collagen to form.  There also is a difference in treating new stretch marks versus older stretch marks.  Older stretch marks require more laser treatments and are generally more difficult to remove.

Does insurance cover laser stretch mark removal? 

If you are wondering whether or not insurance covers laser stretch mark removal, it is best to contact your insurance company. Each insurance company and insurance plan can have different policies about laser treatment for stretch marks, however, typically insurance does not cover stretch mark skin treatment, as it is generally considered a cosmetic procedure. 

Does laser stretch mark removal hurt?

There can be some minor discomfort associated with laser treatment for stretch mark removal but no pain. Dr. Green suggests applying a topical numbing cream for one hour before your laser treatment to minimize any discomfort that you might experience.

Does laser stretch mark removal work on dark skin?

Yes, laser stretch mark removal is very effective for dark skin types. For darker skin tones, radiofrequency laser is preferred such as the eMatrix laser. eMatrix can be used with every skin type, without the risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The eMatrix laser is able to use enough energy to treat these white stretch marks, without concern for these side effects. For red stretch marks, the VBeam laser is able to effectively treat patients with darker skin tones, such as those with Asian, Hispanic, and Mediterranean skin. Both types of stretch marks are able to be treated safely and effectively with the correct laser for your skin tone.

Can laser treatment remove old stretch marks?

Yes, laser treatment is effective at removing old white stretch marks. However, it is easier to remove red stretch marks, which are new. White stretch marks are ones that are older and have become similar to a scar on the skin. Both Fraxel laser and eMatrix laser can treat these white stretch marks on the skin.

How many sessions for laser stretch mark removal?

While the number of treatments varies from person to person, generally it takes 4 to 6 treatments to improve the overall texture and appearance of stretch marks.  Depending on the size and color of the stretch marks, it can take even more treatments. When you have your consultation with Dr. Green, she will be able to determine the treatment plan suited to your specific needs.

How far apart should the laser stretch mark treatments be spaced?

When it comes to laser treatment of stretch marks, multiple treatments are typically required. Most patients will need between 4 and 6 treatments though it may be more or less depending on the size and scope of the treatment area. Generally, you should have four weeks in between each treatment of the V-Beam, Fraxel, or eMatrix laser.

Fractional laser resurfacing stretch marks before and after

How long does the stretch mark procedure take to perform?

The amount of time necessary for the treatment varies depending on whether or not patients opt to use a topical numbing cream to reduce discomfort. If topical numbing is required, an hour of numbing time is generally needed. The procedure itself takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes depending on the size, depth, color, and location of the stretch marks. As such, it is best to plan for between 30 and 90 minutes of time spent in Dr. Green’s office for the procedure. 

Can lasers remove stretch marks permanently? 

Laser stretch mark removal treatment typically requires 4-6 treatments for the best results. Following those 4-6 treatment sessions, the effects of the laser treatment are typically very long lasting, provided you continue to care for your skin. Fluctuations in body weight or other significant body changes, such as pregnancy, do have the potential to lead to the creation of new stretch marks. 

What is necessary to pre-and post-treatment for stretch mark removal?

Laser treatments can work by targeting pigmentation in the skin and for that reason, it is important not to tan the area of skin to be treated with the laser.  Excessive sun or tanning bed exposure can increase the risk of developing a laser burn. Following the treatment, you should also avoid the sun and use sunblock on the treated area. 

What is the aftercare for stretch mark laser treatment?

While laser treatment for stretch marks is very long lasting, results are best maintained if you take care of your skin and practice strict sun avoidance. It is important to use sunblock and moisturizer or lotions to the area treated with stretch marks.

How old do you have to be to get laser stretch mark removal?

Stretch marks can occur at any age and can often affect young people as they go through puberty. For that reason, younger patients may wonder how old you have to be to get laser stretch mark removal. Patients must be 18 years or older to receive treatment or under the age of 18 but with parental consent. 

Receiving treatment from a dermatologist vs. a medspa

Patients who are interested in receiving laser stretch mark removal treatment may wonder about where to go to receive treatment. The procedure is available both at a dermatology office and at a medspa, however, it is important to understand the difference between these two types of institutions. While treatment from a medspa may be less expensive, you will not be receiving treatment from a board-certified healthcare professional. The risk of side effects from treatment are greater if you do not receive treatment from a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.

What Home Remedies Exist to treat Stretch Marks?

There are many different home remedies, stretch mark creams, and over the counter lotions and moisturizers for stretch mark removal.  The following are some popular stretch mark creams:

  • Retinols, like the prescription topical tretinoin, are Vitamin A based creams which increase skin cell turnover. 
  • Cocoa Butter and Coconut oil to moisturize the skin.
  • Sugar compounded with oil to exfoliate the skin.
  • Aloe Vera moisturizer
  • Hyaluronic Acid is a wonderful source of collagen and helps with stretch mark removal.

While these home remedies have been said to help, the most successful stretch mark removal options are with these advanced laser treatments.

Does laser stretch mark removal cause cancer?

Laser stretch mark removal treatment is a very safe and effective procedure that has not been linked to any incidence of cancer. Receiving laser treatment is not a risk factor for developing cancer nor does it cause cancer. 

Can you laser stretch marks? Does laser stretch mark removal work?

Yes, and yes! When you have your laser stretch mark removal with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, the treatment is extremely safe and very effective for patients of all skin tones and skin types. Treating stretch marks with a laser resurfacing device is actually considered to be one of the most effective approaches for reducing their overall appearance, whether they are white or pigmented. It is essential to consult with a medical professional for your laser treatment for stretch mark removal in order to prevent unwanted side effects and ensure satisfactory results. If a patient is treated with a laser resurfacing treatment that is not suitable for their skin type or skin tone, side effects may include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, burning, and even scarring. Dr. Green will evaluate the type of stretch marks that you have and give you an honest assessment for the best course of treatment.

Who is a good candidate for stretch mark removal?

What makes someone a good candidate for stretch mark removal? An ideal candidate for undergoing the process of stretch mark removal should have stretch marks that are visible and an interest in diminishing their appearance. Additionally, good candidates for stretch mark removal should be at or near their goal weight and able to maintain that weight (gaining and losing weight can contribute to the reappearance of stretch marks). It is also important that someone pursuing stretch mark removal treatment is not planning on having children in the future. If you’re looking for a non-invasive treatment method for stretch mark removal and meet the aforementioned criteria, Dr. Green may have the solution for you. During your consultation with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to discuss the possible treatment options for stretch mark removal and which option is best suited to your situation. 

What helps with stretch marks?

Although the gold standard treatment for stretch mark removal is considered to be laser resurfacing treatment, there are other treatment options that can be helpful. There are times, microneedling or Sculptra injections need to be combined with laser stretch mark removal treatment options to obtain the best overall cosmetic result. Fraxel laser, eMatrix laser, microneedling, and Sculptra injections all stimulate new collagen growth, and promote new healthier skin to replace the stretch marks. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to select the treatment methods that will work best for you.

How to heal stretch marks

The best way to heal stretch marks and reduce their appearance is to consult with a board-certified dermatologist as soon as they are noticed. It is much easier to treat stretch marks that are red and newly appeared than it is to heal older white and depressed stretch marks. Healing your stretch marks so that they are no longer visible is possible when you work with Dr. Green in New York. Dr. Green is an expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology who is consistently voted as one of NYC’s best physicians by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine. When you choose Dr. Green to perform your stretch mark removal treatment, you will get a customized treatment approach that is best suited to healing your stretch marks and leaving you with smooth, clear skin that lasts.

How to cure stretch marks

Stretch marks on the skin are not inherently dangerous themselves and are not a skin condition that patients necessarily need to be “cured” of. If, however, the presence of stretch marks is bothersome to a patient, or causes feelings of low self-esteem, there are non-invasive cosmetic treatment options available for reducing their appearance. Dr. Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who is internationally recognized for her holistic approach and ‘less is more’ philosophy when it comes to rejuvenating treatments. When you consult with Dr. Green regarding your customized stretch mark removal treatment approach, she will work with you to determine which procedures and products will help you get stretch mark-free skin that lasts.

Can stretch marks be removed? Can I get rid of stretch marks?

A stretch mark is a specific type of scar that forms in response to skin being rapidly overstretched. Although scars can not be completely removed, their appearance can be significantly improved through the use of various cosmetic treatment methods. The best way to get rid of your stretch marks is to consult with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, like Dr. Green in NYC, as soon as you notice them on your skin. A medical professional with the expertise and experience required to recommend the best in-office cosmetic procedures and specially formulated at-home skincare products is your best guide to achieving the clear, smooth complexion that you’re looking for.

Can you lose stretch marks?

It is possible that your stretch marks may fade on their own over time, however, they will not completely resolve on their own. Since stretch marks are scars, they can not be removed entirely. However, Dr. Green can reduce the appearance of your stretch marks significantly so they are no longer noticeable.

How to prevent stretch marks

There are several underlying factors that contribute to the formation of stretch marks, and some patients may simply be more prone to developing stretch marks than others are. To best prevent stretch marks from forming, patients can stay hydrated and moisturized, do their best to control their weight, and consult with a board-certified dermatologist as soon as they notice their stretch marks appearing. It can be incredibly difficult to entirely prevent stretch marks from forming, but having them treated promptly by a board-certified medical professional, like Dr. Michele Green in NYC, is a great way to achieve a clear, smooth complexion that lasts.

How do I get rid of stretch marks today?

Stretch marks can affect men and women of any age and, often, cause feelings of self-consciousness or low self-esteem. It may seem as though it is impossible to successfully reduce the appearance of your stretch marks when relying on over the counter topical creams and lotions, however, there are non-invasive cosmetic treatment options available that can help. Dr. Michele Green in New York City offers a host of these solutions at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan. Whether your particular stretch marks are white or pigmented, smooth or textured, and affect one or multiple areas of the body, Dr. Green can help.

Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience utilizing the most cutting edge treatments and innovative techniques for providing her patients from around the globe with rejuvenating results, including for stretch mark removal. Dr. Green is consistently voted as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine, and will work with you to create a treatment approach that provides you with your ideal cosmetic results. To learn more about all of the non-invasive skin rejuvenating treatments available that can help you to look and feel like the very best version of yourself, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green by calling the NYC office at 212-535-3088 or contacting us online today.

Can fractional laser remove stretch marks?

Remedy stretch marks with the Fraxel laser At Skin & Aesthetic, we use modern photo-fractional laser technology to gently remove stretch marks from the body. Our approach applies a combination of IPL and ResurFX (fractionated lasers).

How many fractional laser treatments are needed for stretch marks?

All the current laser treatments, be it vascular or fractional laser, will require a series of treatment sessions. Usually at least 3 treatment sessions are needed, at 6-8 week intervals. On average most need 6 sessions for the best results.

Can you remove stretch marks permanently with laser?

While laser treatment won't completely eliminate stretch marks, it can cause them to fade considerably.

How many laser sessions are needed for stretch marks?

Minimum 6-7 sessions are required.