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Surgeon-Led Specialist Clinic
Led by plastic surgeon Dr. Ayad Harb, we pride ourselves on the standard of care, quality and safety of our treatments.
Central Clinic Locations
SRGN has three state of the art clinic locations in Central London, Bicester & Ascot.
Care Quality Commission
We're regulated by the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
GMC Registered Surgeons
All of our surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council.
Medically Reviewed April 2023, by Dr. Ayad Harb, one of the world's leading plastic surgeons
Stretch marks, scientifically known as "striae," are more than just linear scars. They're narratives of the body’s journey through various phases of life, representing sudden shifts and changes. Whether due to rapid weight gain, weight loss, the incredible process of pregnancy, or the rapid growth seen in adolescents, these marks signify moments where the skin, despite its flexibility and resilience, was pushed beyond its natural capability to stretch.
The underlying reason for stretch marks is the breaking down of collagen and elastin fibers, which are crucial components in maintaining the skin's structure and elasticity. When these fibres are overwhelmed by rapid stretching or shrinking, they can break or fray. The result is that the deeper layers of the skin become more transparent, leading to the characteristic streaked appearance of stretch marks on the surface.
Initially, stretch marks have a distinct coloration. They can appear reddish, purplish, or even a deep blue. This vivid hue results from the skin's inflammation and the visibility of the blood vessels that lie beneath. The skin in these areas might also feel slightly raised, tender, and even itchy.
However, as time progresses, so does the appearance of stretch marks. Their once vibrant colours fade to take on paler tones like silver or a pearl-like white. This change in colour occurs as the blood vessels contract over time and the fat cells beneath the skin's surface become more visible. As these marks mature, they can often lose their initial raised feeling and become depressed or indented. The once smooth texture of the skin might become slightly corrugated or rippled in these areas.
Contrary to some misconceptions, stretch marks aren't solely an outcome of skin stretching. Hormonal fluctuations can play a significant role in their development. For instance, elevated levels of cortisone, a hormone produced by our adrenal glands, can weaken skin elasticity. With reduced elasticity, the skin becomes more susceptible to tearing and, subsequently, to the formation of stretch marks.
There's also a genetic predisposition to consider. Like many other traits, the propensity to develop stretch marks can be inherited. If a person's close family members, like parents or siblings, have stretch marks, the likelihood of them experiencing the same increases.
While these marks are primarily a cosmetic concern, the emotional and psychological impact they can have shouldn't be underestimated. For many, stretch marks can influence body image, self-esteem, and confidence. They might act as reminders of a particular time or event, sometimes leading to feelings of self-consciousness.
But it's essential to remember that our skin, like us, has its stories to tell. Stretch marks are just one of the many narratives of our bodies. The journey of life, growth, and change. And with modern aesthetic advancements, there are now ways to reduce their prominence, ensuring that while the story remains, the visibility of its chapters can be softened.
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The initial stages of stretch mark development introduce the world to Striae Rubrae. These are the early warriors of change, signifying rapid adjustments in the skin's elasticity. As the name suggests, 'Rubrae' which denotes 'red', these marks often manifest as bold, bright shades of red, pink, or even purple. They're anything but subtle, standing out against the natural skin tone with an intensity that's hard to ignore.
The rich hue of Striae Rubrae is due to the microscopic damage that occurs in the dermis, the second layer of the skin. As the skin stretches beyond its capacity, the blood vessels beneath become more visible, giving these stretch marks their distinctive colouring. Additionally, the inflammation associated with this skin stretching contributes to the shade and may also be responsible for the slight itching or discomfort that some individuals experience during this phase.
The surface of Striae Rubrae has a soft, almost velvety texture that's raised to the touch. It's a tactile reminder of the skin's continuous journey, undergoing changes, adapting, and signaling the onset of transformation.
Transition and metamorphosis are embedded within the very fabric of our existence, and our skin is no exception. As Striae Rubrae matures and evolves, they transform into Striae Albae. The vibrant, fiery hues of red and purple slowly fade away, replaced by silvery-white, pearl-like streaks. 'Albae,' translating to 'white,' describes the next chapter in the life cycle of a stretch mark.
But what causes this shift from red to white? As time progresses, the body begins its natural healing process. The initially inflamed blood vessels that contributed to the reddish appearance of the marks start to contract and recede. Consequently, the fat beneath the skin becomes the dominant feature, rendering the stretch marks into their muted, white state.
Unlike their younger counterparts, Striae Albae are often less pronounced in their elevation. They tend to be flatter, more aligned with the skin's natural plane. Their texture, however, might be slightly more irregular. The smoothness of Striae Rubrae might give way to a more rippled, or even indented appearance in Striae Albae. But like every scar, every mark, they stand testament to the skin's journey and its incredible ability to adapt, heal, and tell its story.
In the realm of aesthetic treatments, the field's continual advancement has ushered in a new era of possibilities. Particularly for those seeking to diminish the appearance of stretch marks, there now exists a suite of sophisticated treatments. Two of the most notable and effective options in this domain are Microneedling and Morpheus8.
Microneedling, at its core, is a process that capitalises on the skin's inherent ability to heal itself. Through the use of fine, precision-engineered needles, the skin is subjected to countless minuscule punctures. While this might sound counterintuitive initially, there's a profound logic behind the procedure. These tiny wounds act as triggers, igniting the skin's natural wound-healing processes. The end result is an escalation in the production of collagen and elastin, two vital proteins responsible for the skin's elasticity and youthful appearance. As the skin undergoes this revitalization, not only do stretch marks begin to fade, but the overall texture and tone of the treated area witness marked improvement. It's a testament to the principle that sometimes, to rebuild, one must first create the tiniest of disruptions.
Then there's Morpheus8, a technological marvel that merges the foundational principle of microneedling with the prowess of radiofrequency energy. This combination therapy dives deeper, literally and metaphorically. While the microneedling component still creates those essential micro-punctures, the introduction of radiofrequency energy elevates the treatment to another dimension. This energy, directed precisely into the dermis, intensifies collagen production. Furthermore, the heat from the radiofrequency aids in tightening tissues, effectively addressing not just the surface irregularities like stretch marks, but also any underlying laxity or sagging. It's a holistic approach, ensuring the treated skin not only looks better but feels firmer and more rejuvenated.
Safety is paramount, and when conducted by trained professionals, both microneedling and Morpheus8 offer a safe, minimally invasive option with typically minimal downtime. Of course, like with any cosmetic intervention, the outcomes can vary based on individual skin types, the extent of stretch marks, and other personalised factors. Therefore, it becomes imperative to embark on this journey with a comprehensive consultation. Engaging with a certified practitioner ensures a tailored approach, taking into consideration the unique needs and expectations of every individual.
In essence, while stretch marks are a testament to life's ebb and flow, the desire to reduce their appearance is a personal one. And with treatments like Microneedling and Morpheus8, the narrative of one's skin can be gently edited, allowing for a canvas that reflects both life's experiences and one's desired aesthetic.
Located in the heart of Ascot, Bicester, and London, the SRGN Clinic exemplifies afusion of cutting-edge science, unparalleled skill, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. The clinic stands as a beacon of excellence in thefield of aesthetic and plastic surgery.
Leading the team at SRGN is Dr. Ayad Harb, a renowned plastic surgeon and aesthetic trainer. His expertise, honed by years of experience and a genuine passion for improving lives, defines the very core of the clinic's ethos. Dr. Harb's innovative techniques, combined with an artistic eye for detail, enable him to deliver consistently exceptional results that are tailored to each patient's individual needs and desires.
At SRGN, we believe in the transformative power of aesthetic and plastic surgery. Our treatments, ranging from non-invasive procedures to complex surgical interventions, are designed to enhance and accentuate your natural beauty. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and confidential environment where you can discuss your aesthetic goals openly, and together we create a treatment plan that brings these goals to life.
Every member of the SRGN team shares a deep commitment to patient care. We prioritise your comfort, safety, and satisfaction from the moment you step into our clinic. Each of our facilities mirrors the luxury and tranquility of their surroundings, offering a serene space where you can embark on your journey to self-improvement.
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