Laser Stretch Mark Reduction in Atlanta, GA

Stretch marks are a very common skin imperfection among both men and women. Resembling white and light pink, slightly raised lines that can appear in many areas of the body, most people will develop stretch marks at some point in their lifetime. Stretch marks can form due to weight loss and weight gain (fluctuations), pregnancy, and aging. Genetics play a part for some individuals. At Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery in Atlanta, GA, stretch marks can be safely and effectively treated with Halo™ laser. This advanced laser system reduces the appearance of light and dark stretch marks and creates a softer skin appearance without affecting nearby skin or tissue. Led by fellowship-trained and double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Marisa Lawrence, Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery is proud to use the latest, more advanced lasers on the market.

Ideal candidates for laser stretch mark reduction include individuals with any type of complexion and skin tone. New stretch marks appear to respond very well to laser treatment. The appearance of stretch marks vary from an individual to the next so your treatment plan will be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Laser stretch mark reduction uses short pulses of light to target and treat the skin's support structure. The treatment begins to work as the laser beams heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen without damaging the epidermis. This results in a firmer and smoother skin surface. Since the process is non-ablative and does not damage the skin, there is generally little to no downtime following treatment. The number of sessions needed to achieve your desired results will depend on the location, depth, and color of the stretch marks. Each treatment session will take between 30 minutes and two hours to complete.

After your treatment, you can return to normal daily activities but should avoid vigorous activity for a few days. You should expect some temporary but minor redness, swelling, and numbness on the treated areas, but these effects should subside within a day of the procedure. Many patients see dramatic improvements almost immediately. Depending on the severity of your stretch marks and how many are being treated, your best results may require multiple treatment sessions. In addition, it may take several months to see the final results as the skin repairs and rebuilds itself.

Is the stretch mark reduction procedure painful?

Most commonly, patients comment that they feel a stinging sensation similar to that of a sunburn. This is due to the pulsing of the laser as the radiofrequency energy works on the skin. Anesthesia is available should you desire it, but in most cases, it is not necessary.

Does it work?

Many studies have revealed that laser treatments do in fact stimulate the production of collagen in the body, reducing the appearance of stretch marks, as well as scars. Thus, laser stretch mark reduction is the most effective method for treating stretch marks.

What causes stretch marks?

Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of the skin beyond its capacity. This results in the creation of thin pink to red lines. Over time, the collagen within the stretched skin diminishes, breaks down, and leaves behind scar tissue.

Are there any side effects?

Immediately following treatment, you can expect minor redness, swelling, and tenderness at the skin's surface where the treatment took place. These side effects should subside within 24 hours, but in rare cases, these can last up to five days post-treatment. During your consultation, Dr. Lawrence or a member of our team will discuss what to expect following treatment.

We invite you to call Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery in Atlanta, GA to learn more about our stretch mark treatments using laser therapy. Our goal is for our patients to look and feel comfortable in their own skin. This is why we offer the latest, ground-breaking technologies and services. We look forward to meeting you and exceeding your expectations.