Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is known as a “natural filler” treatment that gives a more youthful and radiant appearance to the skin with minimal downtime. There are virtually no risks of allergies or sensitivity as PRP is derived from your own blood. PRP is actually blood plasma containing high concentrations of platelets that stimulate stem cells to help the body regenerate and heal at a faster rate. PRP improves overall skin texture, decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth and eyes, and plumps hollowing areas such as tear trough grooves, cheeks, and temples. PRP can also help smooth both acne and surgical scars.

About PRP

What It Is

PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of your own blood and separating out the plasma, which is rich in platelets containing growth factors. This concentrated plasma is then re-injected into specific areas to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture and promote hair growth. PRP treatments are popular for facial rejuvenation, scar reduction , skin tightening, pore size reduction and hair restoration.

How It Works

Platelet-rich plasma consists of two elements: plasma, or the liquid portion of blood, and platelets, a type of blood cell that plays an important role in healing throughout the body. Platelets are well-known for their clotting abilities, but they also contain growth factors that can trigger cell reproduction and stimulate tissue regeneration or healing in the treated area. Platelet-rich plasma is simply blood that contains more platelets than normal.

What To Expect

To create platelet-rich plasma, clinicians take a blood sample from the patient and place it into a device called a centrifuge that rapidly spins the sample, separating out the other components of the blood from the platelets and concentrating them within the plasma.

A PRP injection is a low-risk procedure and does not usually cause major side effects. The procedure involves a blood draw, so you should make sure you are hydrated and have eaten beforehand to prevent feeling lightheaded. After the procedure, you may experience some soreness and bruising at the injection site. Because PRP injections are made up of your own cells and plasma, the risk of an allergic reaction is much lower than with other injectable medications.

FAQs

  • There is no downtime associated with PRP injections; however, after your treatment, your skin may be red. This is normal and to be expected. Redness usually lasts from one to 24 hours. You may also have a little swelling and bruising in some areas. Due to this, some patients like to be treated towards the end of the week, so they have the weekend to recover. Healing time varies from patient to patient. Healing may take longer if PRP injections are paired with micro-needling.

  • Results can be seen after one treatment, but the exact amount of treatments needed varies from patient to patient. Generally, 2‐3 treatments are advised, but more may be indicated for some individuals.