Can Active/Deep FX laser treatment be used for post-pregnancy stretch marks on abdomen?

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thanks for the question. There are a number of treatments that effectively reduce stretch marks, but Active/Deep FX would probably not be my first choice. Our practice has over 45 different laser options that allows for tailored treatments to the unique needs and desired outcomes of each of our patients. I encourage you to make an in-person consultation with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist that can make and accurate evaluation of your concern and design a treatment plan that will work best for you.

Stretch marks need a combination approach to get the most improvement. I recommend a combination of microneedling/prp, lasers (Erbium/Fraxel Laser, Excel V, Pulsed Dye Laser) or radiofrequency devices. Stretch marks can't be cured and it will take a series of treatments lifelong. I recommend you see an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

The deep FX handpiece associated with the  Lumenis fractional CO2 laser may not result in significant improvement of your stretch marks. The deep FX is a resurfacing CO2 laser treatment. I own this device and typically use the deep fx for facial improvement. This laser works well on fine lines and skin texture leading to improved skin appearance. Stretch marks result from linear dermal scars and epidermal atrophy. Its not been my experience that a deep FX treatment can lead to a significantly thicker epidermis and the resolution of linear dermal scars. I recommend you see an experienced physician who has an expertise in using laser to treat scars. It will be important to set realistic expectations for any treatment or combination treatments used to improve your stretch marks.