What is PRP
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) offers a natural treatment approach that involves obtaining a sample of your own blood and utilizing a centrifugation process to isolate and concentrate your platelets. These platelets, responsible for clotting, are rich in growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) and TGF-beta, which play crucial roles in tissue repair and regeneration. When applied to the skin or scalp, the concentrated growth factors in PRP can stimulate collagen production, boost blood circulation, and foster cellular turnover. As a result, this process can lead to noticeable improvements in skin texture, tone, and the growth of new hair follicles.
Who would benefit from this treatment (men and women):
- Receding hairlines
- Bald spots
- Thinning hair due to age-related changes, hormonal fluctuations, or trauma.
Procedure (45-60mins):
- Blood extraction – a small amount of blood (~30-40ml) is drawn from the patient’s arm using a syringe.
- Centrifugation: The blood sample obtained is placed in a centrifuge machine, which spins at a high speed. This process separates the blood components based on their density, with the platelet-rich plasma being isolated and collected.
- Application: The concentrated PRP obtained is then injected into the scalp at multiple sites using a very fine needle. Microneedling PRP into the scalp can also be performed in addition to the injections to enhance the outcome further.
Patients can expect mild discomfort and sensitivity to the scalp for this procedure.
Recovery:
Patients undergoing PRP for hair restoration should expect a day or two of discomfort and possible swelling. Any pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications as needed, such as Tylenol.
Results
For optimal outcomes, it is advised to undergo a series of at least three treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Afterward, considering maintenance treatment annually can be beneficial. The most significant treatment effects are observed with multiple sessions and maintenance treatments spanning 9-12 months. Generally, healthy hair growth begins within 2 months of treatment, but it might take approximately 4-8 months to achieve the best results.
Overall Safety:
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is considered safe because it uses the patient's blood, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or rejection. However, like any medical or cosmetic procedure, it's crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional. They can assess your specific needs, determine if PRP is suitable for you, and provide guidance and supervision throughout the process to ensure your safety and the best possible results.
What makes us different:
There are many different centrifuge systems and methods of extracting platelets. Not all of these systems give you high enough concentration of platelets, and not all will give you accurate, reproducible samples. The centrifuge and extraction process used at Action has been tested against other systems and found to consistently provide a higher quality product, to guarantee that we are delivering the best product for the best outcomes. When it comes to PRP, it is the concentration that makes the difference in treatment results.
If interested in exploring this procedure further, please reach out to ask about booking an initial consult appointment with Dr. Sydney.
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