PRP and PRFM
PRP and PRFM have been getting a lot of attention over the past few years. Much of the progress with this product is due to the success patients have had with PRP in orthopedics, but now the use has extended to other medical conditions, cosmetic enhancements, dermatology, and many other medical fields. Due to the nature of the product, the benefits of PRP have broadened and it is now being used widely in the field of plastic and cosmetic surgery.
So What Exactly is PRP?
PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. This is a product derived from your own blood, made up of concentrated platelets and plasma. Platelets are a component of blood whose main function is to help with clotting. They contain a special protein called growth factors which play an important role in healing – bringing collagen and other elements to repair and restore damaged tissue. The platelets and plasma are combined with an activating substance which helps them to release these growth factors which can help with tissue repair and rejuvenation.
How Does PRP Work?
PRP, with its high concentration of platelets, can release signaling proteins that can increase collagen synthesis, improve blood flow, and can cause activation of stem cells, and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels to the tissue into which it is injected. Some believe it can enhance the secretion of hyaluronic acid which thereby can increase skin volume and hydration.
Is PRP a Safe Product?
Yes. Because the PRP is derived from your own blood, there is little chance of a reaction to it.
What Had PRP Been Used for in Cosmetic Practices?
PRP has been used for a variety of procedures. It has been used with lasers to treat acne scarring, it has been used to help rejuvenate hair and stimulate new hair growth. It has been used to rejuvenate facial skin and collagen of the face for improved collagen support., facial rejuvenation, and augmentation of facial defects. It has been shown to accelerate wound healing. Some believe it helps with autologous fat grafting to help it stay in place and achieve a blood supply. It has been used to accelerate healing in facelifts.
What is the Difference Between PRP and PRFM?
PRFM is similar to PRP but there is more of a concentration of platelets and there is more fibrin. Therefore when it is used a fibrin matrix is formed which for one provides a scaffolding for the platelets to hold onto so it stays in the tissue to give a longer time to act, release growth factors, and repair. It also has more plasma so there is more volume to produce greater results.
Can PRP or PRFM Be Used With Microneedling
Yes, it is an excellent adjunct to microneedling, because tiny access points are made that allow the PRP to penetrate into the skin which can lead to better rejuvenation and augmentation.
What About PRP and Rhytides or Facial Defects
PRP has been studied for skin rejuvenation and improvement of rhytides. There are mixed reviews on how effective it is, but many patients feel significant improvement in their facial defects and wrinkles after PRP treatments. It can be injected, or as noted above used with microneedling, and more effectively PRFM is used since it allows the platelets to stay in the tissue longer and release more growth factors and stimulate collagen.
Can PRP Be Combined With Other Products?
Yes, most definitely. PRP has been combined with hyaluronic acid filler injections, fat grafting, growth factor preparations, and other products to improve recovery and outcomes of augmentation.
What About PRP and Patients of Color?
PRP, PRP with microneedling, and PRFM have been found to be safe procedures for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick scale I-VI) unless you have a strong predisposition for keloid formation. These modalities have been used for the treatment of facial rejuvenation, melasma, acne scarring, fat grafting, stretch marks, hair loss, and other cosmetic applications. Since many laser therapies are not appropriate for patients with darker skin tones, this is an excellent alternative. This is much safer and has less likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Can PRP Help Black Patients With a History of Alopecia?
Yes, certain types of alopecia have been shown to respond well to PRP injections and even microneedling. There have been promising results in stimulating hair growth and shaft diameter.
What Does PRP Treatment Cost?
Cost varies depending on how much you need and which treatment you select – PRP or PRFM. Costs can range between $750 – $2500.
How Can I Find Out More About PRP and PRFM?
Please make an appointment with Dr. Dolores Kent for a consultation to discuss your concerns and the benefits PRP or PRFM can provide for you.