How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks Surgically

Stretch marks most often occur during periods of rapid growth. When your body grows, your skin sometimes can't accommodate its expanding form. As a result, the skin is stretched and scars form. If you have stretch marks, there are many options for treating them. From scar treatment creams to laser therapy, you can gradually fade the stretch marks through minimally invasive means. If you want a more thorough approach to removing your stretch marks, surgery is an option. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved when removing stretch marks surgically.

Instructions

• 1

  Assess your stretch marks. In order to have your stretch marks removed surgically, you must have excess skin that can be removed. If your stretch marks are on taunt skin, laser treatment is a better option than surgery.

• 2

  Know that surgery carries many risks. Surgical stretch mark removal involves cutting away excess skin and then suturing the remaining skin back together. As with any surgery, there is the possibility of injury and even death. Since it is a cosmetic procedure, it is generally not covered by health insurance.

• 3

  Find a plastic surgeon in your area. If you have friends who have had plastic surgery, ask for information about their doctors. You can also ask your general practitioner for a cosmetic surgeon referral. Ask for one that specializes in skin removal and tightening procedures.

• 4

  Confirm the surgeon you choose is board-certified. Check with the American Board of Plastic Surgery, also known as ABPS, as they have full listings of all certified cosmetic surgeons. You can also check your doctor's status with the American Society of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons, also known as ASAPS.

• 5

  Talk to your surgeon about what to expect before, during and after the procedure. Your doctor should be able to show you before and after photos of people who have had stretch marks removed surgically.

• 6

  Follow your doctor's instructions for pre- and post-surgery care to ensure you get the best results possible. You may need to have prescriptions filled prior to your surgery. You'll likely experience pain as you recover so painkillers are often prescribed.

• 7

  Be aware that full recovery will take several weeks. Since stretch mark removal is a major procedure, you will be sore and uncomfortable following surgery. Clear your schedule for at least two weeks. Though you will be bruised and swollen, it should subside within two to three weeks.