Platelet Rich Plasma is a revolutionary new treatment often referred by media, as Vampire Facelift. PRP therapy works on the body’s own natural healing powers may slow and even reverse the ageing process.

Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy has been used for a number of years in urology, ophthalmology, dentistry, neurosurgery, orthopaedics and sports medicine. It was used to treat muscle and ligament injuries, pain problems, skin lesions and more. Due to the success of Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy in medicine, the procedure was then developed into a cosmetic procedure.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy and how does it work?

PRP therapy involves harvesting platelets from the patient’s own blood in order to inject them into problem skin areas. This gave the treatment its nickname – Vampire Facelift. Before the procedure, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient and put into a centrifuge. The blood is then spun in order to separate the red blood cells from the platelet plasma.

When the platelet plasma is injected into the skin, the platelets release growth factors. The growth factors stimulate other cells surrounding the injection site, plumping them up and causing them to increase in volume. One cell that is stimulated during the process is the fibroblast cell, which is the cell type that creates collagen. Collagen is what gives skin a youthful appearance. As we age, collagen is produced less, causing wrinkles and fine lines. Therapies such as PRP therapy that stimulate collagen production can counteract this. Another cell stimulated during the process is the pre-adipocyte cell. This cell can convert into a fat cell, which is especially important in the face to fill out lines and to contour the face.

What can Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy treat?

Fine lines and wrinkles or crepey skin around the mouth and nose, crow’s feet around the eyes and mild drooping or sagging skin around the eyes or on the cheeks can be treated with PRP. PRP therapy can also be used to improve the appearance of dehydrated or mildly sagging skin on the backs of the hands, on the tops of the feet, elbows and knees. It can be used all over the body.

How long will it take to recover from a PRP treatment?

Recovery time is minimal with Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy, much like a visit to the doctor for a blood test. The actual procedure of reinjection of the PRP involves the use of topical anaesthetic, although not always depending on the patient and area being treated. Meaning that most patients feel comfortable returning to their normal activities straight after the treatment or within a short while.