Fractional Photothermolysis for the Treatment of Striae Distensae: Two Case Reports

Striae distensae are difficult to treat. Several modalities have been used with moderate success. Fractional photothermolysis offers a novel treatment option for abdominal striae distensae. A 25-year-old white female patient (case 1) and a 39-year-old white female patient (case 2) with abdominal striae distensae were treated with fractional photothermolysis (1550-nm Fraxel SR laser). Multiple treatment sessions (2 for case 1 and 3 for case 2) were performed one month apart at 16 mJ and 125 microthermal zones for a total density of approximately 2000 microthermal zones/cm² for each treatment. Pretreatment and posttreatment clinical photographs (taken one month after the last treatment) and patient satisfaction ratings were used to assess treatment efficacy. An independent physician evaluator reported that a 50% clinical improvement in case 1 and a 45% clinical improvement in case 2 were achieved one month after the last treatment based on clinical photographs. Both patients measured their response rates as “significantly improved.” Minimal to no side effects were noted. Clinical improvement continued at follow-up at 4 and 6 months. Fractional photothermolysis offers a new, safe, and effective treatment for abdominal striae distensae.