Answer: Stretch marks are not an easy problem to treat. Unfortunately "old" stretch marks (older than six months) that have turned a silvery gray color are considered permanent. If they are less than six months old and are red or blue color they can sometimes be treated with lasers or Intense Pulsed Light. We would be happy to take a look at the areas of concern and give very realistic ideas of what the treatment possibilities are. Our consultations are always complimentary.

Stretch marks are scars that are caused when the skin is over-stretched during periods of rapid weight-gain such as adolescence and pregnancy. The middle layer of the skin, known as the dermis, contains elastic fibers of tissue that can stretch to a certain point - beyond which they lose their elasticity and break down. In these areas a type of scar tissue forms to strengthen the “weakened” area.

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Many patients opt for plastic surgery, but we recommend you wait until you reach your ideal body weight before any plastic surgery.

Stretch marks can be tattooed. Just be aware that this type of skin tends to be a little bit more sensitive and softer. The consequence of increased sensitivity is obvious, but pain is subjective and depends on your personal tolerance. As for the tissue being softer, make sure your tattoo artist is experienced with softer skin tissue as the techniques used are slightly different in order to avoid excessive trauma to the skin and possible scarring.

If the stretch marks are in the lower abdomen region, then a tummy tuck generally will get rid of them, however other stretch marks may not be removed. For an example, on the upper abdomen, stretch marks can be relocated further down, but they could become visually smoother and flatter. Spalding Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology | 120 S. Spalding Drive, Suite 315 | Beverly Hills, CA 90212

Yes. The Caviar Face Lightening Cream and the Beauty Lightening Milk are intended to fade blemishes, spots and marks. Within time, even old blemishes will disappear. Some real harsh blemishes may require the Skin Repairing Serum, a concentrated gel applied to severely darkened areas only.

Approximately 75 - 90% of pregnant women get stretch marks during pregnancy. They are most common during the last stages of pregnancy but prevention should be started early for optimum effectiveness. You can rest assured that all of the essential oils used in our StretchEasy Massage Oil are completely safe to use during pregnancy and will have only positive effects on the expecting-mom and unborn baby.

Several MDs recently reported good results in treating stretch-marks with the Dermaroller (model MF-8 and MS-4). The skin surface becomes smooth again, and the scar tissue softens. We shall keep you informed about further progress.

It is literally impossible to determine whether you will get stretch marks after your breast augmentation. Many doctors believe that your skin elasticity is a large factor. However, you can always take preventative measures. Many women have moisturized heavily prior to their surgery by using Palmer's Cocoa Butter, Shea's Butter Lotion, and vitamin E. It certainly will not hurt to try it. If you have pre-existing stretch marks due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, etc.

Stretch marks between the belly button and the pubis will be removed with a full tummy tuck. Stretch marks in the upper abdomen will be moved to the lower abdomen.