What is Platelet-Rich Plasma?
Your blood is composed of plasma, white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Platelets are vital proteins that promote cell function and immunity. Platelet-Rich Plasma, also known as PRP, is blood that is naturally enriched with concentrated platelets to enhance and re-engage the body’s healing process.
How Does PRP Works?
Blood is drawn from your arm and processed in a machine called a centrifuge. The centrifuge separates the blood’s components into three parts: platelets, white blood cells, and red blood cells. The concentrated platelets are extracted and combined with the remaining plasma, then injected into the desired area. It is a minimally invasive, non-surgical needle procedure that enhances healing with the concentrated body’s bioactive factors.
What to Expect?
At your initial consultation, we’ll review your medical history and conduct a physical exam before your treatment to determine if PRP is the right option for you and how it may be beneficial. Your blood is drawn, processed, and prepared for injection. Numbing medicine is applied around the injection site to alleviate any discomfort or pain from the injection. Your blood, enhanced with concentrated platelets, is then injected into the affected area. Your appointment will take about 1 hour, and you can expect results to take effect in about four to six weeks.
What is the recovery like?
There is minimal to no downtime for this procedure, and you can return to your regular activities immediately afterward.
Does it hurt?
At Blue Cosmetic Clinic, we start by applying numbing cream for our patients’ added comfort. During the treatment, you may feel a slight pinch, which is not painful.
Are there any side effects?
PRP is a natural substance from your body, which limits adverse reactions. However, as with any injection or needle procedure, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and damage to local structures.
PRP Post Care?
You may experience some soreness or pain at the injection site, which typically resolves on its own after a few days. Avoid taking any anti-platelet medications such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and Naproxen for 2 weeks after your treatment.
If you experience soreness, you can apply heat for 10 minutes, three times a day for the first three days. Heat serves two main purposes: it helps improve blood flow to the area and increases platelet granulation and growth factors.