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Microneedling is one of many cosmetic services offered by Current Dermatology and Cosmetic Center of Annapolis, Maryland, and continues to be a reliable way for patients to achieve and maintain beautiful, healthy-looking skin. Drs. Molly Walterhoefer and Megan Casady Flahive also recommend this treatment to improve the appearance of certain skin imperfections, such as stretch marks. Let’s take a closer look at this treatment and some frequently asked questions often heard by our team of professionals.
Stretch marks are a unique type of scarring that can occur when the skin stretches rapidly due to weight gain, growth spurts, or pregnancy. They usually appear on areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, and upper arms, though they can appear anywhere on the body where changes quickly occur. Stretch marks begin as red or purple lines on the skin and gradually fade to white or silver over time.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that uses small needles to create tiny punctures in the skin. These micro-injuries work to trigger the body’s natural healing process and stimulate collagen production. Collagen is an essential protein that helps improve the skin’s elasticity and texture, making it an effective treatment for improving the appearance of stretch marks.
During your microneedling session at Current Dermatology and Cosmetic Center with Drs. Molly Walterhoefer and Megan Casady Flahive, we first apply a topical anesthetic or numbing cream to the area being treated. Once the area is numb, our team utilizes a small handheld device with very tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to one hour, varying depending on the actual size of the area being treated.Â
Most people report little to no pain during a microneedling session because of the numbing cream applied beforehand. However, you might notice mild discomfort and minimal bleeding in more sensitive areas, such as the abdomen or thighs. At Current Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, our board-certified dermatologists prioritize our patients’ comfort and work with you to ensure your experience is as painless as possible!
The number of microneedling sessions required for stretch marks varies depending on their severity and depth. On average, most patients undergo three to six treatment sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. However, this may vary from person to person, so it is essential to consult with our experienced dermatologists to decide the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
If you are bothered by the presence of stretch marks on your skin and want to work with our team, call our office at (410) 384-4172 to request a visit to our Annapolis, Maryland, area practice at 810 Bestgate Road, Suite 450. We are open to new and established patients at our office seeking solutions for healthy and beautiful skin!
Dr. Molly Walterhoefer is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist and founder of Current Dermatology and Cosmetic Center. With a Magna Cum Laude degree from Vanderbilt University and the University of Maryland School of Medicine, she completed her dermatology residency at the University of Maryland. Dr. Molly Walterhoefer holds fellowship status with the American Academy of Dermatology and is an active member of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Known for her compassionate care and focus on natural-looking cosmetic results, she emphasizes early skin cancer detection and personalized skincare plans, ensuring trust and excellence in patient care.
Dr. Megan Casady Flahive is a board-certified dermatologist with extensive expertise in medical and procedural dermatology. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed her dermatology residency at Duke University, where she was Chief Resident. Dr. Megan previously served as an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Megan Casady Flahive is recognized as a Fellow with the American Academy of Dermatology and is a member of several esteemed societies, including the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Her personalized, compassionate care ensures patients receive the highest level of treatment.