Stretch marks are caused by a rapid expansion of skin due to pregnancy or weight gain. They pose absolutely no health risk and don't compromise your body's ability to function healthily; they are purely a cosmetic issue and need to be treated accordingly. Below you will find links and treatment options on how to get rid of stretch marks.

Cosmetic lasers are a new method for removal of stretch marks. Unlike traditional treatments like stretch mark creams and gels, lasers are used to stimulate new collagen growth and fill the stretch mark from the bottom up. The laser energy is absorbed in the dermal layer of the skin stimulating the production of new collagen. As the new collagen thickens and plumps the skin, it fills in the stretch mark from below.

The procedure itself consists of a concentrated beam of light that travels along the stretch marks, removing extraordinarily thin layers of skin. As the layers are removed, the scar tissue that causes the stretch marks is also removed. After treatment, the skin immediately begins to heal itself and new skin is formed over the damaged tissue.

Treatments can last anywhere from ten minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of the stretch marks and the area of skin that is affected. You can expect to return for a series of treatments; from two to six sessions can be required. During the procedure, the only pain you should experience is a pinching or needling sensation, as the light lasers do their work.

Side effects are rare, but can include bruising, scarring, blistering, or swelling of the treated area. These symptoms will normally disappear within a few days or weeks after treatment. Changes in pigment to the area that has been treated can also occur, but again, this is temporary and your skin will return to its normal color within a few weeks.

Stretch marks that are recent, or pink, purple, red, or brown in color are the easiest to treat and have the highest success rate. Older, more mature stretch marks that have turned silver or white in color can be difficult to remove, but laser surgery can still reduce their appearance.

The downside to laser surgery for stretch mark removal is that it can become quite costly. Treatments range from $400 to 500.00 or more for each session.

Most reputable surgeons have financing plans to help you with payments, but always be aware of the terms and conditions of these arrangements.

There are certainly other methods of removing or reducing the appearance of stretch marks, but laser surgery has been highly effective in achieving this goal. As with any medical procedure, always check with your doctor before deciding on what is best for you.

As an added recommendation, Microdermabrasion and Acoustic Wave Therapy have proven to significantly help with the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Talk to your consultant or Doctor about the right treatment for you.