Whenever multiple and deep layers of skin are damaged or cut by surgery, accident, burns, or pregnancy, scars and stretch marks are formed by the body. The exact cause of stretch marks is unknown. It is believed stretch marks form as a result of the elastin and collagen in your skin breaking down under stress. Pregnancy, body building, and weight loss are the leading problems associated with stretch marks. The stretch marks occur most frequently in areas of mechanical stress such as the breast, abdomen, thighs, groin, or buttocks. In the beginning the marks are red, and then they turn white as part of the healing process over time.

     In the past, cryosurgery (freezing), excision, steroid injections, and the use of topical creams and ointments were the standard of care for the treatment of scars and stretch marks. The results of these treatments range from fair to minimal.

       Today, several new laser techniques are available to treat a wide variety of scars and stretch marks. Although it is not perfect and results vary greatly from person to person, the laser can be a significant benefit to people with scars and can improve some stretch marks. The laser’s energy smoothes out the rough areas with scars and stimulates the skin under the scars and stretch marks to grow new collagen, which helps thicken the skin. This helps the skin closely resemble normal skin.

        The laser treatments can be done in the office or as an outpatient, usually under local anesthetic, unless large areas are involved. The laser pulse is like the snap of a rubber band against the skin. The areas treated have redness for up to two weeks, but usually there is only minor discoloration, and the healing occurs rapidly.

        Laser treatments have been shown to improve or eliminate red or raised scars. Some studies have shown that the appearance of stretch marks can improve up to 6 months after treatment with the laser. Even those treatments with no initial improvement, had up to 50% change with time.

       Patients with a dark complexion or a tan can have changes of the color of the skin with any laser treatment. These changes are similar to what occurs with a burn or cut with temporary loss of the skin color, which returns in 4-12 weeks. These areas can be covered with makeup during the color change time period.

       Individuals with a fair complexion and light pigmentation with shallow scars and stretch marks respond best to laser treatments.

      The prices vary as to the size of the area treated. Also a test patch may be done first. Test patch costs usually run $75-125.00 Full treatments cost $250-750.00 for most small areas, such as the chin. Larger areas such as the cheeks, buttocks, or lower abdomen cost considerably more.