Combined treatment with CO2 laser and bipolar radiofrequency (DOT/RF therapy) provides a dual effect:
• greater treatment effectiveness due to the synergy of two methods;
• more than 40 per cent shorter healing time.
Stretch mark reduction with DOT/RF laser therapy is an effective, non-invasive method for smoothing stretch marks that does not cause discomfort and delivers pleasing results.
During the procedure, not the entire skin is treated, but only part of it using a fractional (spot) method. The laser beam penetrates the selected skin layer and leaves microscopic openings, forming micro-areas surrounded by unaffected tissue. Their cells (fibroblasts in the skin) are activated, and the laser-affected skin area begins to regenerate. At the same time, a large amount of energy reaches the skin, stimulating natural collagen production and accelerating skin renewal.
This procedure effectively rejuvenates the skin without surgery or injections, and the results are often visible and pleasing after just one procedure.
Fractional laser stretch mark smoothing is a safe and effective procedure.
What are the advantages of DOT/RF laser therapy for stretch mark smoothing?
The main advantages of this procedure are:
• results are visible after the first procedure;
• the laser-treated skin regenerates after healing;
• several skin problems can be addressed during one procedure.
How long does the DOT/RF laser stretch mark smoothing procedure take?
The procedure takes 60–90 minutes, including preparation, treatment and post-procedure care discussion.
Does the DOT/RF laser stretch mark smoothing procedure have side effects?
The appearance of the skin after the procedure depends on the treated area. Usually, it becomes red, slightly swollen and warm.
To soothe the skin, we recommend PRP – platelet-rich plasma – application. It shortens natural healing time, reduces signs of inflammation and therefore works well with laser procedures. In addition, growth factors in plasma stimulate the formation of new skin cells, and in the case of scarring, fibrotic tissue is replaced by newly formed dermal cells – fibroblasts, thus scar tissue is replaced with normal skin structure. Finally, PRP has antimicrobial properties and prevents secondary infection.
During healing, scabs and blisters may form, and the skin may peel.
In rare cases, changes in skin pigmentation may occur, when laser-treated areas become lighter or darker compared to the surrounding skin. Such effects resolve over time.
In very rare cases, scars or skin cracks may develop.
IMPORTANT: at Primum Estetica, a test is performed before the planned procedure, and the result is evaluated after five days. Based on this, the physician decides whether the procedure can be performed.
How to prepare for fractional laser stretch mark smoothing?
During the initial consultation, the physician collects the information necessary for successful treatment and discusses patient expectations.
The success of laser procedures greatly depends on preparation.
General recommendations:
• for 4 weeks avoid ultraviolet sun exposure, do not visit tanning beds, do not sunbathe;
• for 4 weeks before the procedure, wash the skin with a gentle cleanser and do not perform acid or other exfoliating procedures;
• for 2 weeks before the procedure, do not use cosmetic products containing retinol;
• for 2 weeks before the procedure, do not perform depilation or laser hair removal procedures;
• for 2 weeks before the procedure, do not take antibiotics;
• at least 3 days before the procedure, discontinue blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants).
A few days before the procedure, inform your doctor:
• if you have undergone plastic or reconstructive surgery;
• if you have had herpes (herpes virus);
• if you are taking any medications.
Before the procedure, the skin must be healthy and without signs of inflammation.
How many DOT/RF laser stretch mark smoothing procedures are needed?
The number of procedures depends on the set goals. Usually, 3–4 procedures are required. During the consultation, you will discuss your goals with the treating physician, and a treatment plan will be created for you.
Is the DOT/RF laser stretch mark smoothing procedure painful?
To ensure comfort during the procedure, a numbing cream is applied to the area to be treated beforehand.
When can’t DOT/RF laser stretch mark smoothing procedures be performed?
The procedure is not performed in patients who:
• have a cardiac implant / pacemaker;
• have collagenopathies (connective tissue disorders) and skin pathologies;
• are pregnant or breastfeeding;
• have infectious diseases;
• have neoplasia or have had skin cancer;
• have kidney or liver insufficiency or dysfunction;
• have arrhythmia or any other severe known heart condition;
• have a metal implant and/or body piercing in the treatment area;
• have autoimmune disorders or diabetes;
• have blood clotting disorders;
• have transplanted organs;
• have an implanted deep brain stimulation system;
• have haemorrhagic diathesis;
• have keloid scars or abnormally healing wounds;
• have heavily tanned skin.
How to care for the skin after DOT/RF laser stretch mark smoothing?
The physician performing the procedure explains in detail how to care for the skin after the procedure, which products to use and what to avoid.
After the laser procedure, the skin remains irritated and red. To reduce irritation and accelerate healing, we recommend PRP – platelet-rich plasma – application. It shortens natural healing time, reduces inflammation and works well with laser procedures. In addition, growth factors stimulate new cell formation and replace fibrotic tissue with dermal cells – fibroblasts. Finally, PRP has antimicrobial properties and prevents secondary infection.
General recommendations:
• do not be alarmed, during the first day the treated area will look like after a severe sunburn;
• after the procedure, cool the treated area every hour for about 10 minutes with a cold ice compress (wrap it in a clean towel), repeat 6 times;
• apply the recommended cream 4 times a day until healing (3–7 days);
• for 2 days avoid hot water and bathing, later wash gently with lukewarm water;
• do not scratch, pick, peel or stick anything onto the skin;
• sleep on a higher pillow for 2 nights;
• do not exercise for 3 days;
• avoid sauna for 1 week;
• for 2 weeks do not use products containing retinoids or glycolic acids;
• for 4 weeks avoid chemical or other aggressive exfoliation;
• for at least 6 weeks avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 50 or higher.
The procedure is performed using the medical DEKA SmartXide DOT/RF CO2 laser with an integrated radiofrequency source – this combination is considered the gold standard because:
• skin irregularities decrease and elasticity improves after one procedure;
• suitable for various face and body areas and different skin types;
• safe for sensitive areas: around the eyes, neck and décolleté;
• PSD – Pulse shape design – technology ensures minimal thermal damage and faster healing.
