Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is known as a “natural filler” treatment that gives a more youthful 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. Here’s how the procedure typically works:
Blood Draw:
A small amount of blood, usually from your arm, is drawn by a healthcare professional. The amount of blood taken is similar to what you would give for a regular blood test.
Blood Centrifugation:
The drawn blood is then placed in a centrifuge machine, which spins rapidly to separate the different components of the blood. This process isolates the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood.
PRP Preparation:
Once the centrifugation is complete, the platelet-rich plasma, which contains a high concentration of growth factors and other bioactive substances, is collected. These growth factors are believed to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and promote skin rejuvenation.
Facial Treatment:
Before the PRP is applied, your face is cleansed and sometimes a numbing cream is applied to ensure your comfort. The PRP is then either injected into specific areas of your face or applied topically. In some cases, microneedling may be performed prior to the application of PRP to enhance its absorption.
Recovery:
After the procedure, you might experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites. These effects are usually temporary and resolve within a few days. You can generally resume your regular activities immediately after the treatment.
What is PRP?
PRP is Platelet Rich Plasma. PRP is an innovative approach to tissue regeneration that uses the patient’s own blood. Typical concentrations of platelets in PRP are 5-10 times that found in normal blood. After obtaining blood from the patient it is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the myriad of growth factors and anti-inflammatory proteins in the plasma that, once injected into the site of injury, produces a powerful and permanent healing response.
Advantages of PRP Therapy for Joint Pain,
Tendon and Ligament Injuries
Safe – We are often asked are PRP injections safe? Platelets are taken from a patient’s own blood, so there is very little risk of an adverse rejection reaction or disease transmission. Quick Healing Time – PRP Therapy takes place during a one hour in-office procedure. This allows patients to resume daily activities with a quick healing time. However, patients will often need to refrain from sports or exercise for several weeks or up to one month. Avoid Invasive Surgery – Stem cell therapy combined with PRP injections often can allow patients to avoid joint surgery and lessen the need for pain medication.
All-Natural – Using a patient’s own platelets allows the body to heal naturally. Cost Effective – PRP injections are a quick, cost effective, outpatient procedure that allows patients to avoid expensive hospital and facility costs associated with surgery.
Platelet-rich plasma injections also can be used to treat a whole host of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Joint pain from arthritis
- Meniscal tears
- Tendonitis
- Partial tendon tears
- Ligament sprains or tears
- Nerve inflammation
- Plantar fasciitis