PRP has become a highly sought-after non-surgical procedure for facial and skin rejuvenation. PRP therapy is a treatment which uses your own blood platelets to stimulate new cell growth, helping to improve your complexion, skin texture and to restore lost facial volume.
Your blood is essentially made up of four components; red blood cells, white blood cells, the plasma and the platelets. We take your blood and spin it in a centrifuge, which enables the separation of the blood cells from your plasma and platelets. This is then re-injected into the skin to stimulate collagen and new skin cells. PRP harnesses the beneficial functions of the patients own platelets and therefore there is no risk of allergy or rejection of the treatment.
PRP can also be successfully used to treat thinning hair and hair loss particularly male pattern baldness. It is important to start treatment early on and whether you are a suitable candidate will be determined during your consultation.
What is the procedure?
Depending on how many areas you want to get treated, a volume of blood will be taken. This is usually between 10 to 30 ml. Your blood is then placed in a centrifuge for around 8-10 minutes. Once your cells have separated, the rich platelets are extracted and injected into the skin where rejuvenation is requested.
There are three different methods in which PRP can be used for facial rejuvenation:
PRP injections. This procedure is used in mild cases of volume loss and to help give the face a younger appearance. The injections will replace lost volume to the face as well as stimulate collagen production.
PRP combined with fillers. When volume replacement is a main objective, the PRP is combined with fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm. This procedure if often referred to as by some as a “Vampire Facelift”. This procedure combines the benefits of volume restoration with the collagen production stimulated by the growth factors in your own blood.
PRP facial. This is the least invasive procedure of the with the quickest recovery. The face is prepared for a micro-needling technique. The PRP is then applied as a topical treatment to promote collagen formation and quicker healing. This procedure will result in smoother skin and is often recommended for acne scarring.
The PRP procedures needs to be repeated a few times in order to achieve further improvements according to the goals of each patient, but one session is often enough to produce the desired results.
What should you expect post treatment?
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. Because a volume of fluid has to be administered, swelling is inevitable. Bruising can occur and may take several days to disappear.
How soon will I see results?
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.
Are there any reasons why I can’t have PRP therapy?
Like the majority of cosmetic procedures, ladies who are pregnant, breast-feeding or trying to conceive are not suitable candidates. This treatment is not recommended in people on anti-coagulation treatment, autoimmune conditions, have suffered any type of cancer or who have certain implants in the treatment area. Your past and present medical history, as well as your past cosmetic history will be assessed to determine your suitability.
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