Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is rapidly gaining traction in the world of aesthetics. Many people have heard of some big name celebrities getting aesthetic treatments utilizing PRP. With new and exciting uses for “liquid gold” coming to the forefront, we thought we would highlight some of the basics of PRP and what you can expect.
What is PRP?
PRP is a concentration of the platelets and growth factors found in your own blood serum. It is much more than simply drawing your blood and smearing or injecting the areas you want treated. The “good stuff” is obtained by drawing your blood, then using a specialized device called a centrifuge to separate the different parts of your blood. We then extract the PRP from your blood sample after the different components have been separated. The PRP is then applied in a way that will provide the best results for your concerns.
Is PRP Made in a Lab?
Unlike dermal fillers, neurotoxins, or skin care products, PRP is not created in a lab. It is naturally occurring in your own body. Since PRP comes from you, there is literally zero chance of having an allergic reaction. We are simply concentrating your healthy blood components and taking advantage of the natural healing properties already inside you!
What are Popular Uses for PRP?
PRP is rapidly finding new and exciting ways to improve your aesthetic outcomes. It can be used as a stand alone treatment or in combination with other aesthetic services we offer. The following list includes some of our most popular treatments at Image Surgical Arts that utilizes PRP:
- Under eye bags
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Non-surgical facelifts
- Hair loss
- Microneedling
- Scar reduction
- Wound healing
- Laser skin resurfacing
- Female sexual enhancement
- Male sexual enhancement
What Should I Know Before My PRP Treatment?
Since there is a blood draw involved, we recommend, if approved by your regular physician, not taking any anti-platelet medications for 7-10 days prior to your treatment. These include aspirin, Plavix, lovenox, fish oil, turmeric, and others. While your results should not be affected significantly on these medications and supplements, it may increase bruising associated with the treatment. We also recommend being well hydrated prior to your treatment and eating beforehand. Discomfort is generally minimal from PRP treatments. In many treatments, we will use a topical numbing agent to reduce any discomfort. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can be used as well to reduce anxiety and discomfort. Occasionally, injectable numbing agents will be used to reduce discomfort as well. The entire process will be explained to you in detail prior to your treatment.
When Can I Expect to See Results?
Time to results from PRP can vary depending on which treatment you are receiving. For example, with microneedling using PRP, you can expect to see a decreased amount of time for redness and swelling to go away. On the longer end of the spectrum, in treatments for hair loss, you may not see improvement for several months or more.
Do I Need More Than One Treatment?
Again, that depends on what service you are getting. For example, our female sexual enhancement shot is usually a one time treatment with results lasting usually about a year. However, you can receive as many treatments as you want. For hair and under eye treatments, we typically recommend a series of three treatments 4-6 weeks apart and then yearly maintenance treatments. Each patient is different of course and we will tailor the number of PRP treatments to your specific needs.
How Do I Learn More?
If you have other questions about PRP or want to set up a complimentary consultation, please call or text us at 615-499-4224. Our expert staff will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding PRP or any of the other many services we offer!
