Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment

Benefits of PRP Treatment

Whether PRP is used for hair restoration or skin rejuvenation, the treatment offers some unique benefits: 

• It is natural - because the treatment uses the patient's own blood, patients do not have to worry about an allergic reaction or other risks
• It is quick - the various steps in a PRP treatment are all performed in a single session that takes one hour or less
• It is comfortable - local anesthetic is applied prior to skin treatments, ensuring the procedure is not uncomfortable for patients 
• It treats multiple areas - in addition to treating the scalp, PRP can be used on all areas of the face, even the delicate areas around the mouth and eyes
• It provides long-lasting results - while improvements with PRP for skin rejuvenation take some time to appear, they can last for a year or longer 

What Happens During a PRP Treatment

A PRP treatment consists of three steps. The first is a simple blood draw from the arm. The blood is then placed into a centrifuge for a few minutes to cleanse the blood and separate out the platelet-rich plasma. 

Once the PRP is ready, it is applied to the treatment area. The method of application will depend on how the PRP will be used. Board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Miller uses different techniques, depending on whether the PRP is treating hair loss or skin concerns. 

PRP Treatments for Hair Restoration

PRP may treat hair loss by stimulating dormant hair follicles to grow hair once again. It may also help to thicken fine hairs, for a fuller head of hair overall. According to one study, the treatment has been shown to increase hair density by up to 15%.

This procedure may be recommended for men and women who are in the early stages of hair loss. It is not effective for patients who have already lost most of their hair. Dr. Miller will examine you in their office to determine whether PRP hair restoration treatment is the right choice for you. 

Once the platelets are prepared for this treatment, they are injected into the scalp where the growth hormones regenerate the follicles. Patients will typically undergo three treatment sessions, spaced about four weeks apart. New growth is generally seen within 3-6 months. Maintenance treatments are recommended every 6-12 months to keep your hair restoration results. To learn more about PRP hair restoration treatment, visit ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment for the Face

When PRP is used to rejuvenate the face, the treatment is called a PRP facial, or more often, a Vampire Facial. This procedure addresses numerous skin concerns, including: 

• Early skin laxity
• Uneven skin texture and tone
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Enlarged pores
• Loss of facial volume

The Vampire Facial combines PRP with microneedling to increase collagen and elastin within the dermal structure. These essential elements are abundant in the skin during our youth, giving skin its smooth, supple appearance. Over time, our bodies produce less collagen and elastin, leading to skin laxity and the formation of wrinkles. By restoring collagen and elastin levels, we can turn back the clock on the skin. 

During a PRP facial, the prepared platelets are applied topically to the skin. Microneedling is then used to deliver the growth factors deep into the dermal structure, where the combination of the PRP and the micro-channels created by the needling stimulate the body to increase elastin and collagen production. 

Patients may require 2-6 treatment sessions to achieve their desired results, depending on the condition of the skin at the beginning of the process. Treatments are spaced about four weeks apart, and improvements may be seen after each appointment. Full improvement may become evident about 12 weeks after the final session and may last up to one year or longer. Yearly maintenance sessions may allow you to maintain your results indefinitely. 

FAQs

Question:

Do PRP treatments hurt?

Answer:

The primary discomfort associated with PRP treatments is the needle poke at the beginning to draw blood. When the PRP is administered, topical numbing cream is typically used to ensure patient comfort throughout the process. Most patients find the procedure to be quite tolerable. 

Question:

How many treatments will I need?

Answer:

PRP tends to produce the best results after a series of treatment sessions. For hair restoration, we recommend three treatment sessions, spaced about four weeks apart. Skin rejuvenation may require 2-6 sessions, depending on the condition of the skin and the severity of the concerns to address. These sessions are also spaced about four weeks apart. 

Question:

Is there downtime after PRP treatments?

Answer:

Since PRP treatments do not require surgery, there is no required downtime after the procedure. Most patients return to their regular schedule immediately following a treatment session. 

Question:

Are there any side effects or risks?

Answer:

Side effects with PRP treatments are primarily due to the use of needles during the procedure, and might include temporary mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness. 

Question:

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for PRP?

Answer:

The best way to determine whether PRP is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller. By examining your skin and discussing your concerns and goals in detail, our doctors will create a customized treatment plan to best meet your needs.

Question:

How long does PRP last for hair restoration?

Answer:

Hair restoration results may last between 6 months and 1 year, varying from patient to patient. Once you know how long your desired results last, you may schedule regular maintenance treatments to keep those results.

Question:

How long does PRP last for the face?

Answer:

Vampire or PRP facials may last one year or longer. Annual treatments may help you maintain your results indefinitely.

Schedule an Appointment in Our New York City Office Today

PRP is a natural way to restore hair growth or rejuvenate the skin. The treatment is relatively comfortable with few risks and side effects. If you are ready to learn more about this revolutionary treatment, contact Gotham Plastic Surgery or call (646) 791-3066 today to schedule your consultation.