Can Plastic Surgery Remove Stretch Marks?

Although stretch marks are extremely common in men and women, many people find them unsightly and want to get rid of them. Home remedies for stretch marks are rarely effective, but some surgical methods can drastically reduce their appearance or eliminate them altogether.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion involves removal of the upper layer of skin using an electric sander. Although effective, it is extremely painful.

Fractional Laser Resurfacing

Over the course of several treatments, fractional laser resurfacing treats small areas of stretch marks. The body responds by producing more collagen and epithelium, thereby decreasing the appearance of the marks.

Tummy Tuck

The classic "tummy tuck" cosmetic procedure removes 1 or 2 inches below the navel, where stretch marks are especially likely to occur.

Pulsed Dye Laser

Laser treatments are used to lightly tattoo the area around stretch marks, so that the color of the skin appears nearly uniform.

Effectiveness

Cosmetic surgery for stretch marks can vary in its effectiveness, depending on skin type, age of the stretch marks and the method used.