PLATELET-RICH PLASMA

---

Platelet Rich Plasma, also known as "PRP", is an injection treatment whereby a person’s own blood is used. A fraction of blood (30cc – 60cc- depending on procedure) is drawn from the individual patient into a syringe. This is a relatively small amount compared to blood donation, which can remove 500cc. 

The blood is spun in a special centrifuge to separate its components (Red Blood Cells, Platelet Rich Plasma, Platelet Poor Plasma and Buffy Coat). Platelets are very small cells in your blood that are involved in the clotting and healing process. When PRP is injected into the damaged area it causes a mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade. 

As the platelets organize in the treatment area, they release a number of enzymes to promote healing and tissue responses, including attracting stem cells and growth factors 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. Treatment areas may include the head/face for hair/beard restoration.

The full procedure takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Generally, 2-5 treatments are advised. However, more may be necessary for some individuals. Results are generally visible at 4 weeks and continue to improve gradually over the ensuing months (3-6) 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.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: PRP used for aesthetic procedures is safe for most individuals between the ages of 18-80. There are very few contraindications, however, patients with the following conditions are not candidates: 1) Acute and Chronic Infection, Sepsis 2) 2) Skin diseases (i.e. SLE, porphyria, allergies) 3) Cancer (must be in remission for 1 year) 4) Chemotherapy treatments (within 1 year) 5) Severe metabolic and systemic disorders 6) Abnormal platelet function- blood disorders, Hemodynamic Instability, Hypofibrinogenemia, Critical Thrombocytopenia 7) Chronic Liver Disease 8) Anti-coagulation Therapy 9) Oral or systemic corticosteroid use- must be off for 2 weeks before treatment.