Patients in Centreville, VA, and the surrounding communities unhappy with the appearance of stretch marks on the body are often interested in learning about effective treatment options. At Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia, now a part of U.S. Dermatology Partners, we are dedicated to assisting patients in the Centreville area with their skin care concerns.
What are stretch marks?
It is essential that patients understand what stretch marks are to determine how they are treated. Stretch marks are marks that develop on the skin at times when the skin has been stretched past its natural laxity. This typically happens with fast weight gain, such as during pregnancy. Many women who have carried children may experience permanent marks on their skin around areas such as the stomach, breasts, and thighs following childbirth. These stretch marks are often unsightly, and most patients feel self-conscious about their appearance. When they want them gone, they talk to our team of professionals to learn about their options.
Why laser therapy?
Laser therapy is readily available at our practice and is one of the most effective solutions for stretch marks available in dermatology today. Laser therapy uses light energy to target deep into the skin and provide fast, amazing results for our patients ready to make changes to their skin. Stretch marks do not respond to just one treatment, instead, patients must schedule several sessions to fully remove the stretch marks. This is important for patients to understand that it is not a “once and done” solution. The changes to the skin from laser light take time, but the results are worth the wait!
What type of laser is used to address stretch marks?
At Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia, our professionals have a wide selection of laser devices available for patients to choose from. Not every laser treatment is best for the reduction of stretch marks. Our doctors often suggest fractional laser treatments such as the device named Palomar 1540 which can treat not only stretch marks, but also other skin concerns including:
- Pigmentation concerns
- Sun damaged skin
- Surgical scarring
- Acne scarring
- Fine lines and wrinkles
What other alternative options do I have to treat stretch marks?
At our practice, we find the best results are achieved with laser therapy, and we will recommend this for those who are ready to be done with their stretch marks. Laser therapy is safe and can be used on all skin types, ensuring amazing results once the treatment sessions are complete. Patients who have dealt with stretch marks for years are excited to be able to show off their body without these discolorations affecting their appearance!
Is stretch mark removal permanent?
Yes, the removal of treated stretch marks is permanent. However, if patients gain weight quickly again, stretch marks can still develop elsewhere on the skin and will need to be addressed separately. We recommend treatment of stretch marks for patients who are finished having children or do not intend to gain weight in the future. By doing this, patients know that their treatment is a great investment in themselves and their skin.
What else can laser therapy be used for?
Lasers are used in medicine every day for many skin resurfacing and rejuvenation treatments readily available at our practice in Centreville, VA.
If you are interested in learning more about the services and treatments we offer, contact Dermatology Associates of Northern Virginia Centreville. We assist patients of all ages in our state-of-the-art facility. We provide medical and cosmetic dermatology solutions to men and women at both our Centreville and Sterling locations. Our Centreville location can be reached at (703) 222-2773 and is conveniently located in Suite #301 at 13880 Braddock Road. We accept new patients who are ready for quality, comprehensive dermatological care.
Click here to Request a Consultation Online at our Centreville Location!
