Can my inner thigh stretch marks be removed surgically if I do not have lose skin? (photos)

Question

I have tried multiple different treatments to target my inner thigh stretch marks. Retin-A, microneedling, pulsed dye laser, a sample area with the alma opus. I know they will never completely go away but I have had them for 18 years and they still have a purple pigment to them. I’d like to know if an inner thigh excision is possible even though my skin is not very loose? I do not want to waste any more money on treatments that don’t work. Thank you.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about whether an inner thigh lift will help remove stretch marks even if you don't have loose skin. To better understand how a thigh lift can help remove inner thigh stretch marks, knowing more about the thigh reduction procedure is helpful. The thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, is an exciting body contouring treatment that aims to sculpt a slimmer, firmer thigh through thigh skin and fat removal. In most cases, thigh liposuction is performed with a thigh lift to address stubborn pockets of fat and create an even more attractive leg shape.
Thigh lift surgery involves the excision of loose or extra skin on the thighs, and thus, thigh skin tightening. Thigh skin excision and tightening often eliminate and dramatically reduce the visibility of thigh stretch marks. If the stretch marks are located on the portion of thigh skin excised during thigh lift surgery, these stretch marks will be removed during the thigh reduction. Additional stretch marks may be improved as the remaining skin is pulled taut and secured with sutures.
I hope I helped to answer your question regarding if an inner thigh lift will help to remove stretch marks even if you don't have loose skin.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen.  ( Plastic Surgeon, President of  the American Society of Bariatric Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, RealSelf Hall of Fame, and RealSelf Doctor Advisory Board for Medical Review and Consumer Panel.)

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello !

I’m sorry the treatments you try didn’t work out. You could benefit from Collagen Induction Therapy (Needling). Collagen induction therapy (CIT), also known as needling, is a simple yet very effective technique that can be used to treat various skin conditions. These may include wrinkles, loose or aging skin, stretch marks (striae distensiae), cellulite, hyperpigmentation, and scars. You may need a few sessions.

Of course, an “in person” exam is necessary.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Diego Ampudia, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello, I would propose a combination of liposuction, Morpheus8 technology, and bodytite for your specific scenario. When combined, these procedures can help you decrease stretch marks by up to 60%.

Can my inner thigh stretch marks be removed surgically if I do not have lose skin? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Lipo and stretch marks

Answer: Lipo and stretch marks

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can my inner thigh stretch marks be removed surgically if I do not have lose skin? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Lipo and stretch marks

Answer: Lipo and stretch marks

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.