PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
What is a Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is used in aesthetic medicine to rejuvenate the skin. PRP has approximately 4 to 7 times the normal concentration of platelets in whole blood, and at this level has been clinically proven to rejuvenate the skin.
PRP therapy, is a non-surgical therapy that involves drawing blood from a patient’s body – similar to a blood test – and then separating the platelets with a machine and injecting PRP into the area of the body that requires treatment.
PRP helps the body repair by stimulating skin cells to create new tissue. It increases collagen production and ultimately improves skin tone. It is the high concentration of platelets in PRP that increases the amount of growth factors delivered when placed or injected into a certain area.In comparison to other methods, a Platelet Rich Plasma treatment is known to be one of the safest in the market.
What makes a Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment effective?
Platelets are what the body needs to help in the healing process. As platelets are rich in connective tissue growth and healing factors, the body naturally delivers platelets to an injury to initiate repair. When a maximized, concentrated amount of platelets are injected into the required area of the body, it accelerates the healing process And this why the PRP therapy is effective.
What does a Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment treat?
The treatment is suitable for many skin issues. As the growth factors in platelets will activate and rejuvenate the cells in the body, PRP therapy is able to repair skin defects and trigger production of new cells and collagen. The increase of collagen production will increase skin thickness and encourage overall skin health, tone, and elasticity.
The PRP treatment is primarily used for:
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Facial Rejuvenation ('Vampire Facial')
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Hair-loss treatment
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Sexual Rejuvenation ('V' shots & 'ED' shots)
What is the process of a Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment?
First, a vial of blood is drawn from the patient similar to a blood test. The patient’s blood is then spun in a centrifuge for a few minutes at a pre-calculated speed. By spinning the blood, the platelets are separated from the red blood cells. After which, the concentrated platelet – which raise to the top of the vial – will be extracted and re-injected into the required/affected area. Minimal discomfort may be experienced during the entire treatment.
The treatment duration will vary depending on the area and severity of the skin condition. Also depending on the skin condition, the doctor will advise on the number of treatments required to obtain optimal results.
What happens after a Platelet Rich Plasma treatment?
Minimal downtime is required. Patients may also experience mild swelling and bruising after the treatment. However, bruising and swelling will subside. Do note that the treatment results will be subtle at first, but will be more visible in the following months. Additional treatment sessions will improve the results, allowing it to last up to 18 months.
What to expect?
Most people will experience some mild to moderate swelling in the area of treatment, redness or heat, which are all common side effects and are part of the activation of your platelets. Bruising can occur and may take a couple of days to appear. Most patients will require three treatments at four to six week intervals. The first thing people notice is an improvement in skin turgor and elasticity. Collagen production can take up to three months to occur and the results can differ depending on the individual. Because the injected product is 100% your own, factors such as smoking, stress and illness can effect results. A series of three treatments can yield results for up to two years.
Who is a Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment suitable for?
The PRP therapy is suitable for both men and women of all skin types. It is a great option for people seeking a minimally invasive, non-surgical, and natural treatment for their skin condition. However, this treatment may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions. The doctor will advise on other options should you fall into this category.
Are there risks involved in the Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment?
Platelet Rich Plasma treatment is known to be one of the safest treatments in the market, as it uses your own blood. Hence, there is no risk of an allergic reaction. However, there is a very low possibility of infection and bleeding when injections are involved. Thus, it is very important to seek a medically certified professional when undergoing this treatment.
How much does a Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment cost?
Platelet Rich Plasma treatment is used to treat various parts of the body and a variety of skin conditions. Hence, the cost is highly dependable on the individual patient and the amount of treatment sessions required. During a consultation session, the doctor will advise on the best treatment plan for your specific condition to see the best results.