Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Skin Rejuvenation

The Procedure

For the separation of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a dedicated kit is used. The use of a specific filter and a centrifuge achieves a high platelet recovery rate of 97% or more and allows preparation of plasma with a high concentration of growth factor inducing platelets.

STEP 1. CONSULTATION

Dr Konrat and the Cosmetic Nurse practitioner will assess the degree of skin aging, perform a skin analysis, and recommend a sensible treatment with reasonable outcome.

Options of facial rejuvenation are explained to you, including efficacy and safety. Cost analysis is discussed and the number of sessions possibly required.

Persons between the ages of 30 and 80 years are eligible.
Almost all skin tones show that the process is safe and effective because your own enriched plasma is used, but not all grades of wrinkling can be improved.

A photograph of the skin is taken to assist the follow-up and grading of the improvement.

STEP 2. BLOOD COLLECTION

Prior to treatment a blood sample of 10 - 20 ml is extracted from the patient.

STEP 3. SEPARATION OF PLATELET COMPONENT

This blood is immediately placed in the centrifuge for 8 minutes. When centrifugation is complete your plasma will be separated from your red blood cells. The rich platelets are extracted and injected into the skin. Platelets gradually increase the amount of collagen produced which can increase skin thickness and overall health of the skin.

STEP 4. INJECTION OF PLATELET COMPONENT

The skin is cleansed and a clearsonic exfoliation is performed to gently exfoliate the ‘dead’ outer layer of the epidermis. Local aneasthetic cream is applied to the skin to ensure as much comfort as possible prior to injection of the PRP

By an injection technique, the PRP is injected into the skin under topical local anaesthesia. The forehead, peri-orbital region, cheeks, chins and dorsum of the hands, are the targets of aging and wrinkles, for rejuvenation. The process is tolerated providing sufficient topical anaesthesia is applied.

PRP facial rejuvenation can be a one off treatment, but further microinjections can be re-performed at 4 weekly intervals for lines and wrinkles if the client desires this.

This entire process and injection time is simple and takes approximately 1 hour in total.

Expectations for PRP

Results are visible at 3 weeks and improve gradually over ensuing months with improvement in texture and tone.
Cosmeceuticals (biologically active skin care) and Light therapies can enhance the results.
Advanced wrinkling cannot be reversed and a minimal improvement is predictable in persons with drug, alcohol and tobacco usage. Severe scarring may not respond.
Further plasma treatment is also popular and safe. PRP is effective and well tolerated, but patient selection is important if predictable results are to be expected.

Are results immediate?

No. Swelling from the fluid is what you will see and feel first. Once the swelling has subsided you will not see much change at all. Over a few weeks the Platelets will stimulate the growth factors which will assist in more collagen growth.

How many treatments are required?

This will depend upon the health and age of your skin. Normally it is advised to have 2 - 3 treatments 4 weeks apart. However your clinician will determine your treatment protocol according to your skin condition.