Abstract

Objectives: To assess the safety and efficacy of using a combination of calcium hydroxylapatite biostimulation and fractionated microneedle radiofrequency for treating stretch marks. Introduction: Stretch marks, a common cutaneous scarring, can cause psychological distress. Skin stretching and a decrease in collagen and elastin could be the reasons. While topical therapy is ineffective, physical methods are being investigated. There is evidence that fractionated microneedle radiofrequency (RF) reduces skin laxity. Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) also volumizes and biostimulates. Even when diluted, CaHA stimulates collagen synthesis and skin tightening. Materials / method: Each patient's management plan included four sessions, separated by one month. In the first session, CaHA was diluted 1:4. The linear threading technique was used to inject 3 mL of hyperdiluted filler subdermally with a 25-gauge cannula. During the course of three consecutive sessions, RF microneedling was conducted. Cartridges with 40 micro-needles were used. Two passes were made per session. Two dermatologists who were unaware of the type of treatment assessed photographs of pre- and post-treatment using the Manchester Scar Scale (MSS). Results: Eight female patients with stretch marks on the abdomen encircling the umbilicus participated in the study. The average age of the participants was 36.6 ± 7.3. Three patients exhibited striae rubra, whereas five patients presented with striae alba. There was a substantial decrease in their MSS from an initial value of 14 ± 0.93 to a final value of 6.88 ± 1.64 (P value<0.0001, paired t-test). The average level of satisfaction reported by patients regarding the ultimate outcomes was 8.12 ± 1.72. Only two individuals reported persistent erythema after the therapy regimen. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to reveal the safety and efficacy of hyperdiluted CaHA and microneedling radiofrequency for the aesthetic enhancement of stretch marks. The suggested combination is a promising treatment for a common disfiguring disease with few treatment options. Future research should investigate how fractionated microneedling radiofrequency and hyperdiluted CaHA work best for treating stretch marks.