Platelet Rich Plasma, or also known as “PRP” is an injection or topical treatment whereby a person’s own blood is used. A small amount of blood (15cc-50cc) is drawn up from the individual patient into a syringe. The blood is spun down in a special centrifuge to separate its components (Red Blood Cells, Platelet Rich Plasma, and Plasma. The platelet rich plasma is first separated then activated with a small amount of calcium to allow the release of growth factors from the platelets which in turn amplifies the healing process. PRP is then injected into the area to be treated. Platelets are very small cells in your blood that are involved in the clotting process. When PRP is injected into the damaged area it causes mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade. As the platelets organize in the clot, they release several enzymes to promote healing and tissue responses including attracting stem cells to repair the damaged area. As a result, new collagen begins to develop. As the collagen matures it begins to shrink causing the tightening and strengthening of the damaged area. When treating injured or sun and time damaged tissue they can induce a remodeling of the tissue to a healthier and younger state.
Along with the benefit of using your own tissue therefore eliminating allergies there is the added intrigue of mobilizing your own stem cells for your benefit. PRP has been shown to have overall rejuvenating effects on the skin as in improving skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles, increasing volume via the increased production of collagen and elastin, and by diminishing and improving the appearance of scars. Other benefits: minimal down time, safe with minimal risk, short recovery time, natural looking results, no general anesthesia is required.
The full procedure takes approximately 45 minutes – 1 hr. Topical numbing cream is applied approximately 20 minutes before the procedure to minimize discomfort.
Generally, 2-3 treatments are advised, however, more may be indicated for some individuals. Touch up treatment may be done once a year after the initial group of treatments to boost and maintain the results.
Results are generally visible at 3 weeks and continue to improve gradually over the next 3-6 months with improvement in texture and tone. Advanced wrinkling cannot be reversed and only a minimal improvement is predictable in persons with drug, alcohol, and tobacco usage. Severe scarring may not respond. Current data shows results may last 18-24 months. Of course, all individuals are different so there will be variations from one person to the next.
