Stretch marks are dark marks that run in the skin along areas where the skin has been stretched. Stretch marks occur when rapid weight gain and loss occurs and when the skin has been extremely stretched. These marks are most common among people who have lost a lot of weight and among pregnant women. The marks, also called striae, are actually small scars that lie under the skin's surface.

Removing stretch marks without surgery can be difficult. This is especially true of larger and deeper marks. While creams or lotions may often work on smaller marks large, deep marks actually may have folds of loose skin. The best way to remove these marks and excess skin is through stretch mark surgery. Removing stretch marks with surgery is an option for anyone who has loose skin and deep, large or dark scarring as a result of rapid weight gain or loss.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Sometimes the skin has stretched so much that once the weight is removed the skin is left in folds on the body. Surgery is the best option to permanently remove stretch marks and the associated excess skin. A qualified surgeon does tummy tuck surgery, also called abdominoplasty. The stretch mark surgery is rather routine however the doctor will consult with you to determine if you are a candidate for this type of operation. Abdominoplasty is often considered cosmetic surgery so your insurance may not cover it. Check with your own insurance provider to find out if it's covered.

How Does a Tummy Tuck Work?

The surgical procedure called abdominoplasty stretches the skin back to a taut position. It effectively removes flabby or hanging skin that can be wrinkled and unsightly. The surgeon uses an incision that is done below the belly button in order to make the resulting scar less noticeable. Women may even be able to wear a bikini again. If you have excess skin beneath the belly button you may be a candidate for a mini tummy tuck which reduces the excess skin in the lower abdominal area. The typical procedure takes anywhere from 2 hours to 5 hours and is often done as outpatient surgery. The surgeon will explain stretch mark removal surgery to you and will determine if the procedure is recommended for you.

Are You a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

The tummy tuck procedure is best suited for those who are otherwise in good health. Those with medical problems may not want to go through the strain of surgery. People best suited for stretch mark surgery are those who are fit. Older individuals and people with medical conditions may not be the best candidates for this surgery. Sometimes the abdominoplasty is completed along with other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction depending on the age and general health of the patient. To learn more about how to remove stretch marks you can schedule a consultation with your surgeon. He will explain the surgery to you and review your medical history to make recommendations about the best course of action to take.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Stretch mark surgery may be done as outpatient surgery or an overnight hospital stay may be recommended. Expect to have several days to a week of recovery with continued restricted activity for several weeks thereafter. There will likely be considerable pain after the surgery, which can be minimized by taking pain relievers. Allow the muscles and skin to heal properly. Avoid any heavy lifting. You will need some help at home for at least several days following the operation. As with any surgery recovery time varies greatly based on your fitness and health levels.

After the Tummy Tuck

After your tummy tuck has been completed and the healing is done you will look and feel great. The skin on your stomach will be very taut. Advanced surgical techniques will allow you to have few if any noticeable scars from surgery. Keep your skin moisturized to allow it to continue to stay healthy. You may still have some minor lines that remain after surgery but these will often fade completely in time. Be sure to use sunscreen on that area to avoid exposure to the sun, which may darken any remaining stretch marks.