Tissue Repair and Regeneration with PRP
What is Platelet rich plasma (PRP)?
Also known as ‘The vampire face-lift’, and ‘Dracula therapy’. 55% of blood is made up of plasma. Plasma is a straw colored liquid rich in platelets, white blood cells, stem cells, proteins, minerals, ions, growth factors, and chemical messengers; all important for healing and repair. In order to separate and concentrate the plasma, a sample of the recipient’s blood is taken and ‘spun’ in a machine, the red blood cells sink to the bottom; the plasma rises to the top.
How does it work?
The concentrated plasma contains key components of tissue repair and regeneration, taken from the recipient, PRP is injected into the skin to stimulate the formation of new collagen and elastin. The results develop over a period of months, improving skin tone and elasticity. Results may be achieved after a single treatment, although we recommend a review at 6 weeks and 3 treatments over three months to achieve optimum results.
Treatment areas
PRP can be used on skin almost anywhere on the body.
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Dull, tired skin
- Décolletage
- ‘Smokers lines’
- Hands
- Suitable for around the eyes
- Stretch marks
- Scars/acne scars
- Hair loss
Best Results
6-12 Weeks
Treatment Time
1 hour
Recovery Time
48-72 hrs
Anesthetic
Required
Complications
Low
Cost
Based on consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the results last?
Results may not become apparent for 6-12 weeks and may last 18-24 months.
Does it hurt?
Topical anesthetic cream is applied prior to treatment to numb the skin. It is reported as uncomfortable, rather than painful.
Is it safe?
All treatments carry a degree of risk. All risks and complications will be discussed with you at consultation and prior to any treatment being agreed.
Since the PRP used is the patient’s own blood, the risk of disease transmission, allergic reaction, toxicity or rejection are avoided. Side effects include, but may not be limited to:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tenderness
What after treatment is required?
Your practitioner will provide aftercare advice designed to minimise risk and promote speedy recovery from any expected side effects.
As with any injectable treatment, there may be redness, tenderness, swelling and possibly bruising. Swelling, particularly if treatment is administered around the eyes, may be quite marked in the first 24 hours, and may take up to a week to settle.
Am I suitable for treatment?
There are a number of medical conditions and or medicines that may affect the decision to treat or the treatment plan. A full medical history and assessment of your expectations is necessary in advance of any decision to treat.
Treatment is not recommended if:
- You are suffering from any skin infection in or near the treatment area or are unwell in any way .
- You have previously experienced allergic reactions to any dermal filler or local anesthetic.
- You are taking any medicines which affect bleeding, such as aspirin or warfarin.
- You are taking steroids or have autoimmune disease.
- You have any bleeding disorders.
- You are undergoing chemotherapy.
- You suffer from a poorly controlled medical condition.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You are currently or have recently completed a course of Roacutane (Isotretinoin acne treatment) in the last 18 months.
Are there any other factors I need to be aware of?
Injections on the face can trigger the cold sore virus. If you are a sufferer, you must advise your clinician in advance of treatment.
If you are planning to attend a special event when a bruise, should it occur, would be unacceptable to you.
Some over the counter medicines and supplements can also affect bleeding (make you more prone to bruising) as can alcohol which should be avoided the day before and after treatment.
Vigorous exercise, sun exposure, sun beds, sauna should be avoided for 48 hours, after treatment.
