Laser removal of stretch marks on the body
Updated: Oct 11
Individual assessment and laser treatment options for body stretch marks at Dr USKOV Kliinik in Tallinn.
Stretch marks, or striae distensae, are scar-like changes that may develop as the skin stretches or shrinks. They can affect the abdomen, thighs, breasts, buttocks, back and arms. They are common and usually do not require treatment; whether to seek cosmetic improvement is a personal choice.
Laser treatment may make stretch marks less noticeable and improve aspects of skin texture, but it cannot guarantee their complete disappearance. Results and recovery differ between patients.
These images show an individual comparison. They do not replace examination and treatment records, and another person’s result may differ.
Skin comparison at the flank Thigh skin comparison Lower abdominal skin comparison Flank skin comparison with markings Breast skin comparison Buttock skin comparison Comparison skin close-ups
How do they appear?
Stretch marks involve changes in collagen and elastin. They can appear during pregnancy, puberty or rapid changes in weight or muscle size. Hormonal influences and inherited susceptibility also matter. Tell the doctor about any relevant medical conditions or prolonged corticosteroid use.
Newer marks may appear pink, red, purple or brown, depending on skin colour. As they mature they often fade and become paler. Their appearance and the patient's goals help guide the treatment discussion.
Ud-Din et al. (2016): review of stretch mark development and limitations of topical treatments. PubMed.
Do stretch marks need treatment?
Treatment is optional. People may seek advice because the marks bother them, but there is no obligation to change their appearance. A consultation can help clarify:
The nature of the marks and the changes you would like to address.
The likely benefit, limitations and recovery involved.
Whether observation, a procedure or another approach is most appropriate.
How is stretch mark treatment performed at Dr. Uskov’s clinic?
At the consultation, the doctor examines the colour, width and distribution of the stretch marks and asks when they appeared. Your health and medicines are also reviewed. Further investigations are arranged only when indicated.
Assessment helps identify skin characteristics, possible causes and suitable options. It cannot precisely predict the outcome or number of sessions.
How is the laser approach selected?
Different laser methods may be considered for selected stretch marks. They have different indications and levels of supporting evidence. The proposed device, its availability and the reason for choosing it should be discussed during consultation. Selection considers:
The colour, width and texture of the stretch marks.
The location, extent of the affected area and surrounding skin.
Skin sensitivity, previous treatment and tendency to pigment changes.
The expected benefit, risks and acceptable recovery time.
Paasch et al. (2022): S2k laser guideline, stretch marks section; the strength of recommendations differs between methods. PubMed.
Hague and Bayat (2017): systematic review of stretch mark treatments and limitations of the evidence. PubMed.
A combined approach
Laser methods are central to our practice, but the treatment plan is not automatically a combination of procedures. Other medical methods may be included when indicated and in the patient's interests. The aim is an appropriate plan, not the largest possible number of treatments.
Different laser approaches may be used at different stages when appropriate.
Other treatments or skin-care measures are considered individually.
The plan can be adjusted according to healing and the response to treatment.
How many sessions do I need?
The number of sessions and the intervals depend on the method, tolerability and skin response. The doctor considers the colour, age and width of the marks, the size and location of the area, skin type, previous treatment, health conditions and medicines before recommending whether to continue.
The starting point and pace of treatment are agreed after assessment. Newer and mature stretch marks may need different approaches; early attendance does not guarantee a particular outcome or a shorter course.
Risks and treatment planning
Before treatment, we assess the skin, discuss previous procedures and medical history, and explain the expected recovery and possible adverse effects.
Treatment parameters are selected for the individual skin and treatment area.
Laser and other medical technologies are used according to the clinical indication.
Each patient receives information about aftercare and follow-up.
Possible reactions include redness, swelling and tenderness. Burns, pigmentation changes, infection or scarring can also occur. Appropriate patient selection, settings and aftercare are important, but no procedure is free of risk.
What affects the result
The likely benefit depends on the stretch marks and their age, your skin type and sensitivity, and how the skin responds to the chosen method. Recovery and aftercare also form part of the assessment.
A consultation is an opportunity to discuss which changes are realistically achievable, whether treatment is suitable and how much recovery time to allow. You can choose not to proceed after receiving that information.
Want to Learn More?
Read Dr. Uskov’s blog at scarsinfo.com — here you will find detailed articles, scientific explanations, real patient stories, and photo examples of stretch mark treatments.
A 2024 systematic review brought together 151 studies of stretch mark treatment. It did not identify one method suitable for every type of stria. Differences between types and limits in the evidence matter when discussing likely results. Zhu et al., 2024
