Dr. Seckel, Is the Fraxil laser an option for treating stretch marks? Thank you, Michelle, Houston, Texas
Dear Michelle,
No laser, including the Fraxel® laser has yet been shown to effectively remove stretch marks in the skin. While lasers can lighten the color of skin stretch marks, and increase the production of collagen in the dermis to possibly reduce the depth of the stretch mark, the results to my eye are not satisfactory.
Please check my previous in depth discussion of strectch marks in the skin by clicking on this link in the Ask Dr Seckel section. In my experience only an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck effectively removes stretch marks and then only the stretch marks in the skin that is removed.
Unfortunately many advertisements and marketing claims create the impression that stretch marks can be removed when in fact the best a laser, even the Fraxel, can do is to lighten the color and soften the appearance. The stretch mark is still there. Always seek reputable medical advice from a board certified doctor. Reading Chapter 10 in Save Your Face, and paying attention to the 10 “red flags’ will also help you avoid being misled.
Thank you for your question. To learn more visit my Boston Plastic Surgery Practice, contact me or read Save Your Face.
Sincerely,
Boston, Massachusetts
Peabody, Massachusetts