Stretch marks, or striae as they are known in dermatology, are a form of scarring on the skin that forms in the dermis when the elastic fibers are overstretched and the skin’s ability to expand has been exceeded. This can happen during periods of hormonal flux, rapid weight loss or gain, and growth spurts. For this reason they are very common during pregnancy, during the teen years, and after weight lifting.
Men and women can get stretch marks on several areas of their bodies, including the abdominal area, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms or lower back. When stretch marks first appear they are purple or reddish lines, however they fade with time and eventually fade in color. Once stretch marks have appeared, it is essential to treat them as early as possible.
by Martin Kassir, M.D., F.A.A.D.
At Kassir Dermatology your satisfaction is our top priority. Dr. Kassir will safely and effectively treat your stretch marks by using lasers and other modalities, such as Dermafrac, to gently reduce the appearance of the striae over a series of treatments. Lasers promote synthesis of healthy, new collagen, which has been damaged when stretch marks appear. In this way, laser treatments can help restore the skin’s elasticity and also change the pigmentation so that the stretch marks are minimized.
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We do not perform most procedures on pregnant or breast feeding women. We can begin or resume treatments after delivery or after breast feeding.
Topical therapy can definitely be part of the treatment course. Since stretch marks are so variable, we would need to properly evaluate your stretch marks in order to proceed with treatment. We may begin with or add topical therapy as indicated for your specific needs.
Definitely not. The type, color, age, and native skin color are all determining factors for stretch mark treatment.
It depends on the recommended treatment after a thorough evaluation.
The appearance of stretch marks can be reduced, but it depends on the color, texture, and age of stretch marks, laxity, and the skin type of the individual.
There are many treatments for stretch marks, and it depends on a multitude of factors. Stretch marks may be present for a short or lengthy period of time. The length, width, color, texture, and shape of the stretch marks greatly influence its treatment course. Other factors include the color and texture of the patient’s native skin. An evaluation and physical examination by an expert is necessary before determining the proper treatment course for stretch marks.
A microdermabrasion treatment often is utilized in conjunction with other modalities in the treatment of stretch marks.
by Martin Kassir, M.D., F.A.A.D.
by Martin Kassir, M.D., F.A.A.D.
by Martin Kassir, M.D., F.A.A.D.
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