Stretch marks: treatment using the 1,064-nm Nd:YAG laser.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Striae are frequent skin lesions that cause considerable aesthetic concern. The 1,064-nm long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser has been used to promote an increase in dermal collagen and is known to be a laser that has a high affinity for vascular chromophores.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aims to verify the efficacy of the long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of immature striae.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Twenty patients who had immature striae, i.e., red striae, were treated using the 1,064-nm long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser. The analysis of treatment efficacy was performed by the comparison between the images taken before and after each treatment session as well as through a subjective assessment carried out by the patients themselves.

RESULTS:

Results were considered satisfactory to both patients and doctors. A higher number of patients (55%) considered the results excellent when compared to the same assessment made by the doctor (40%).

CONCLUSION:

The clinical improvement of immature striae can be obtained with the use of the 1,064-nm long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser. The low incidence of side effects makes this laser a good alternative in the treatment of these common skin lesions.

• Authors: Alberto Goldman, Flávia Rossato, Clarissa Prati
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 34 Issue 5 Pg. 686-91; discussion 691-2 (May 2008) ISSN: 1524-4725 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 18336578 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Elastic Tissue (physiopathology)
• Female
• Humans
• Low-Level Light Therapy
• Patient Satisfaction
• Skin (pathology, physiopathology, radiation effects)
• Treatment Outcome