PLATELET-RICH PLASMA MICRONEEDLING
IS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA THE SECRET TO YOUNGER-LOOKING SKIN?
Also known as the “vampire facial,” platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has received so much attention that it may seem as if we’ve finally found the fountain of youth. Microneedling with PRP is a cosmetic treatment that stimulates collagen production by rolling fine needles over the skin and applying platelets, which are one of the components of blood.
The addition of PRP from the blood may make microneedling more effective. The liquid in blood is plasma, while platelets are solid. Platelets help blood clot, so they are vital for healing wounds and injuries. PRP is plasma in which the concentration of platelets is higher than that of other components of the blood.
If you have PRP to treat signs of aging on your skin, here’s what to expect:
*Blood drawn: You would have a small amount of blood (about 2 to 4 tablespoons) drawn from your arm.
**Blood taken to lab: The test tube containing your blood would be placed in a medical device called a centrifuge, which separates your blood into layers. One of these layers contains a high concentration of platelets.
***Blood injected: Your dermatologist injects the blood that contains the high concentration of platelets into your face or scalp, using a syringe or microneedling (device that looks like a lint roller with tiny needles sticking out of it). To give you immediate results, your dermatologist may also inject a filler.
The entire procedure takes about 45 minutes to one hour.
PRP Microneedling Benefits
*acne scars *surgical scars *wrinkles and fine lines *hyperpigmentation *sun damage *large pores *uneven skin texture *Plump up sagging skin *Get rid of deep creases
Microneedling with PRP improved acne scars by 62.20%. Microneedling with PRP can also take a few weeks to show results, as the body takes time to produce collagen. As a result, people can expect to keep seeing improvements in their skin in the weeks following their treatment.
Most patients are good candidates for this type of the procedure, with few contraindications to treatment existing.
It may not be the best option for you if you:
*are pregnant *use or recently used Accutane for acne *still have active acne resulting in new scarring *have certain skin conditions, such as facial eczema or rosacea *scar easily *have a history of poor wound healing *have undergone skin radiation in the last 12 months
How much does it cost?
Because PRP is given to improve a person’s appearance, medical insurance doesn’t cover the cost. In the United States, it’s estimated that the cost of each treatment session can range from $250 to $1,500 per treatment.
How do you prepare for your appointment?
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your treatment. This may include:
*avoiding unprotected and excessive sun exposure or tanning several weeks before your appointment *drinking lots of water in the days before your appointment *arranging a ride home from your appointment (which may not be entirely necessary depending on the office’s protocol) *arriving with a bare face (you may cleanse that morning, but you should avoid wearing makeup or moisturizer)
What you should do if you’re interested in microneedling with PRP
CALL Dr. MAIRA MORALES AND SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT AT 305.442.0331