PLATELET RICH PLASMA (PRP)
What is it?
PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma – this is a substance that is derived from your very own blood. It’s a natural injectable which is used for epidermal rejuvenation and collagen stimulation. This is a very common treatment for people who wish to delay the signs of ageing without the use of anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.
Key Elements/Benefits:
- Uses your own body’s sources
- No reactions due to own plasma
- 24 – 48 hours down time only.
Who can/can’t have it?
Almost everyone is a candidate for PRP with the exception of certain blood disorders and people who are on blood thinners such as warfarin and heparin. We find patients who smoke do not achieve very good results and therefore we do not perform this treatment on smokers.
PRP is designed to rejuvenate the epidermal skin cells (the outer layers of the skin). It is best for the following:
- Fine lines
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Skin laxity on the eyelids
Is there downtime associated with PRP?
PRP is injected with small needles around the area of concerns, due to the use of needles bruising is always a risk. Some patients bruise more easily than others however we advise 5 days downtime when having this procedure performed, particularly around the eyes.
How many treatments are required?
We recommend a series of at least 3 – 4 treatments. These should be performed every 4 weeks to ensure optimal regeneration of skin tissue. Most patients will have one treatment yearly after their series to maintain results.
How long do the results last after a series?
Depending on your lifestyle and skin care regime – both at home and in clinic, results will usually last 12 – 24months. With yearly maintenance these results will last longer and be further enhanced. It’s important to use a combination of therapies in clinic throughout the year to ensure optimal results. PRP combined with anti wrinkle injections and laser genesis works very well.
Prior to treatment:
We recommend ceasing fish oils and supplements that may thin the blood. Clearance from your doctor is advised before ceasing prescribed medications – this will help to reduce the severity of bruising. All make up will be removed and the skin will be disinfected before the injections.
During the treatment:
The area will be cleansed to ensure there are no traces of makeup. A topical anaesthetic cream will then be applied to the area being treated – this optimises comfort levels throughout the injecting. Some patients will feel a mild stinging sensation throughout – however this doesn’t last long and often resides within a couple of minutes. After the injecting is finished pressure will be applied to reduce swelling and bruising.
After treatment:
Post injecting we do not place patients under LED – this is to prevent the denaturation of the PRP within the skin. We recommend coming in the following day to have this done. Afterwards you will notice swelling to the area and some bruising.
Things to avoid post treatment
- Sun exposure
- Extreme temperature changes
- Touching the area
- Icing (we don’t want to disturb the nature of the PRP)
- Avoid active products around the treated areas (ie vitamin A)
Potential risks and side effects:
With any injectables there comes risks – because PRP is derived from your own blood these risks are more minimal than fillers and anti wrinkle. The most common side effects are swelling and bruising – this will vary from patient to patient and can last up to 5 days. Rarer risks include infection.
What is the cost?
- 1 area (ie the eyes): $500
- Full Face: $1000
- Full face and neck $1500