PLATELET RICH PLASMA (PRP)

PRP or the vampire face lift is so called because your own blood is taken and after separation of different constituents, the plasma with the platelets, is reinjected into the skin. PRP has a long history of being used in orthopaedic medicine, dentistry and reconstructive surgery, and now its benefits are being applied to other fields of medicine such as dermatology and cosmetology as this plasma is rich in platelets (platelet rich plasma or PRP) and it contains growth factors which stimulate skin regeneration.
The platelets are an important component in our blood and are necessary for normal clotting. However, these very same platelets when activated release several proteins as well as growth factors, which release stem cells, increasing collagen formation, skin tightening and overall rejuvenation. This gives us another synonymous name ‘Facial Stem Cell Regeneration’ therapy.

PROCEDURE
This cutting-edge rejuvenation is a quick 20- 30 minutes procedure. A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient and placed in a sterile tube. Whilst the patient waits, it is spun down in a centrifuge at a precalculated speed for 5 to 10 minutes to separate the different components of the blood. Red and white blood cells are divided from the platelets and the plasma (the clear fluid). This plasma now contains a higher than normal number of precious platelets, nearly fivefold. The separated platelets are then activated with calcium chloride, to release more growth factors.
Local anaesthesia is given and the Platelet Rich Plasma is injected into the appropriate areas very small needles similar to those used in Botox injections.

WHO SHOULD GET IT DONE
The treatment is ideal for individuals looking for gradual but noticeable improvement in skin texture, tone and colour with minimal downtime. The results give you a fresher healthier appearance. It can be used on all skin types and colours. It helps eliminating skin wrinkles, rejuvenating the skin, improve the appearance in those with acne scarring, and hastening the healing process after a facial peel. It also appeals to the patient who is looking for a natural approach to volumizing the face. Common areas where it is used include sun-damaged and prematurely aged skin on cheeks and mid-face, jaw line, neck -sagging skin on the neck and face, back of the hands and Décolletage. For the best result, up to three treatments, 4-8 weeks apart, with top ups at around 12 months are recommended. Improvement in the skin texture is noticeable within the first month while full collagen regeneration takes 3 months. The improvements continue over the next 12 months, as new collagen production continues to improve the overall appearance of the dermis. The effects last for a variable period ranging from 18 months to 2 years.

SIDE-EFFECTS
Because this filler is made from the patient’s own blood, there is no risk for rejection, infection, or an allergic reaction. The skin might appear slightly sunburned for up to 48 hours with little or no associated discomfort. Mild swelling which may last from 3-7 days, redness, or bruising fade within 1-3 days are uncommon. Applying cold compresses and elevating your head can minimize any swelling and bruising. Patients can expect to see better results as they receive more treatments.

After the treatment, it is important to keep the skin thoroughly hydrated and to apply a 30 SPF (or greater) sunscreen multiple times a day.
Priced between 45 to 60 thousand rupees, for three sessions, this PRP therapy can be combined with laser treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, fillers and botulinum toxin to best target a patient’s unique issues and thus achieve the final goal of younger looking skin.