Stretch Mark Treatment with CO₂ Laser in Perth

Improve the Appearance of Striae with Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing

Stretch marks, or striae, are a common skin concern following pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or growth spurts. These marks result from rapid skin stretching that disrupts collagen and elastin fibres, leaving behind lines or bands that vary in texture and colour. While stretch marks are harmless, many people seek to reduce their appearance for improved confidence and skin quality.

At our Perth clinic, Dr Nathan Stewart, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, offers fractional CO₂ laser stretch mark treatment therapy using the AcuPulse™ system to soften and blend stretch marks over time by promoting collagen remodelling and skin renewal.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches beyond its natural elasticity. This commonly happens during:

Pregnancy
Adolescence (growth spurts)
Rapid weight gain or loss
Bodybuilding or muscle growth
Hormonal changes

They often appear on the abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, flanks and upper arms, and may initially be red, purple, or pink before fading to a lighter tone.

How CO₂ Laser Improves Stretch Marks

Fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing works by delivering precise microbeams of energy into the skin’s deeper layers. This stimulates a natural healing response that:

Rebuilds collagen and elastin in the dermis
Improves texture and firmness of the affected skin
Reduces the visibility of colour differences between stretch marks and surrounding skin
Smooths and blends raised or indented marks

The AcuPulse™ CO₂ laser allows controlled penetration to safely target the affected tissue while preserving healthy surrounding skin, resulting in shorter recovery times and improved outcomes.

What Areas Can Be Treated?

Laser stretch mark treatment is effective for many common areas, including:

Abdomen and flanks (especially post-pregnancy)
Thighs and buttocks
Breasts
Upper arms and shoulders

Depending on your skin type and the stage of your stretch marks, Dr Stewart will tailor the treatment depth and density to optimise results.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

1. Personal Consultation

You’ll begin with a consultation with Dr Nathan Stewart, who will assess the type, age, and location of your stretch marks and determine whether CO₂ fractional laser is the most appropriate option. Not all stretch marks respond equally, so expectations are discussed clearly and honestly.

2. Treatment Day

A topical anaesthetic is applied for comfort.
The laser is passed over the targeted areas to create controlled micro-injuries.
The session usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the extent of the area treated.

3. Aftercare and Healing

Mild redness, dryness, and a sunburn-like sensation are common for 3–7 days.
Treated skin may appear bronze or lightly scabbed before shedding naturally.
Visible results develop gradually over 6–12 weeks, as new collagen forms.

You’ll be provided with post-treatment instructions to care for your skin and enhance healing. Sun protection is crucial following laser treatment.

Add-On Option: Exosome Therapy

To further enhance recovery and results, exosome therapy is available as an optional add-on. Exosomes are stem cell-derived vesicles that deliver growth factors and regenerative signals to skin cells.

Benefits of Exosomes include:

Accelerated healing and reduced inflammation
Boosted collagen and elastin production
Improved overall skin texture
Minimised redness and downtime

Applied immediately after laser treatment, exosomes may optimise your results—especially for large or stubborn stretch mark areas.

Is Laser Stretch Mark Treatment Right for You?

You may be a good candidate for laser stretch mark treatment if you:

Have mature or newer stretch marks (red, purple or pale)
Are in good general health and not pregnant or breastfeeding
Have realistic expectations about improvement (not total removal)
Are committed to aftercare and sun protection

The best results are often seen with early or moderate stretch marks. For more severe skin laxity or skin excess, other procedures (e.g., skin tightening or surgery) may be discussed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can laser completely remove stretch marks?

No. While laser cannot completely remove stretch marks, it can significantly reduce their visibility, smooth the texture, and improve colour blending with surrounding skin.

How many laser treatments are needed for stretch marks?

Most patients require a series of 2–4 treatments, spaced 6–8 weeks apart, depending on the age and depth of the stretch marks.

Does it hurt?

Topical anaesthetic is used before treatment. Most patients experience a warm, prickly sensation during treatment and mild discomfort for a few days afterwards.

What is the downtime after CO₂ stretch mark treatment?

You may experience redness, swelling and peeling for 3–7 days. Avoiding sun exposure and following aftercare advice will support a smooth recovery.

Is the treatment safe for all skin types?

CO₂ laser is most suitable for lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–III). Dr Stewart will assess your skin type and recommend alternatives if necessary to minimise the risk of pigmentation issues.