Will Laser Resurfacing Improve Stretch Marks?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have stretch marks covering most of the center of my abdomen. They are about two years old. I am curious about the pricing of your fractional CO2 laser resurfacing as well as recommendations for the best type of treatment or any other suggestions.

A: When it comes to treating stretch marks, there are no completely effective strategies. They may be able to be reduced but can never be completed eliminated. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing, while effective for facial skin wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation,  has not shown a similar profound effect on stretch marks. The best way to determine if it would have any beneficial effect would be to do treat a small area first (test patch) before embarking on treating the whole area.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana