Stretch Marks

Stretch marks (or striae) are caused by the skin stretching too rapidly during body growth periods, usually in puberty or pregnancy. Stretch marks are commonly seen on the thighs, belly and breasts. Approximately 80% of all pregnant women have stretch marks.

Stretch marks are caused when rapid growth stretches the skin too fast, resulting in micro skin ruptures transforming into scars. New stretch marks appear like reddish to purple irregular lines and can gradually fade to white or silverish color. Stretch marks are generally permanent.

Although stretch marks do not influence one’s health, many patients request treatments to improve their appearance. At The Medical Cellulite Center at La Fontaine, we have many treatment options available, including multiple lasers and the new European technique – The DermaRoller.

Treatment Options:

Laser treatments are used to treat the reddish discoloration and the textural abnormalities associated with stretch marks. Often this reddish discoloration is the most noticeable aspect of stretch marks and laser treatments can make the redness much less noticeable. The Lux 1540, a fractional laser, has just been cleared by the FDA for treatment of stretch marks. We have found significant improvement in the stretch marks, after as little as 2 treatment sessions. Sometimes it takes a full 6 treatments.

The DermaRoller is also used to treat the scaring of stretch marks. This microneedling technique mechanically breaks up the stretch marks, as well as, stimulating fibroblast proliferation, which increases new normal collagen deposition. This blends in the stretch marks with the surrounding normal skin, thus making them much less noticeable. Usually 4 to 6 treatments are needed, with 50 – 70% improvement in the stretch marks appearance.

After applying topical numbing medicine, the virtually painless, treatment takes about 20 minutes. Redness and swelling usually last 2 days, with bruising lasting up to 1 week.

At The Medical Cellulite Center at La Fontaine, we have used multiple treatment methods for stretch marks, including MicroDermabrasion, Fractional laser treatments and Accent Radio frequency skin tightening. We have found the DermaRoller or the Fractional Laser to be the best treatment option. Call to set up an appointment to see which is the best treatment option for you.

Please contact
The Medical Cellulite Center at
La Fontaine Aesthetics
in Cherry Creek, Denver, Colorado,
for a Complimentary Cellulite Consultation
and Personalized Treatment Plan.

303.355.4772