I would consult with your dermatologist to look at the extent of the stretch marks to determine a treatment option for you.

Lose weight and then have them surgically removed which leaves a scar but smaller

There is no way to get rid of stretch marks short of cutting away affected skin as part of a “tummy” tuck or similar procedure aimed at tightening skin. Creams and lasers etc. have little to no merit despite hype and aggressive marketing. A stretch mark is a tear in the dermal layer of the skin and while the initial redness will improve time true healing and reversal of to blemish is very limited.

You most likely will never get rid of them completely. Improvement can be achieved from topical applications and/or surgery. Surgery may improve the looks, but also will create a scar.

There is no good way to get rid of stretch marks. If they are between the belly button and pubis, then a tummy tuck will cut them out. Others ---you are stuck with. The derms may say that they have lasers to remove them -- but they don't work well. Also, creams are useless.

William B. Rosenblatt, M.D.