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PLATELET RICH PLASMA (PRP)
For the last 20 years, Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, has been used in medicine. PRP is concentrated blood plasma (composition of blood) that contains approximately five times the number of platelets found in normal circulating blood. The function of platelets is to promote clotting of the blood and is the key to the body’s ability to heal wounds because it contains growth factors that promote regeneration of the cells in the body.
WHAT IS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrated autologous preparation of platelets and the associated growth factors in a small plasma volume. Platelets are a natural source of several growth factors in their natural and biologically determined ratios.
PLATELET GROWTH FACTORS
Upon activation, platelets release growth factors and other molecules. These growth factors can act on the hair follicles to promote the growth of new follicles and to increase blood flow. The blood supply feeds the hair follicles. Healthy hair follicles generate healthy hair. PRP therapy in hair loss, amplifies the body’s naturally occurring healing mechanism, thus stimulating the growth of new hair follicles.
PRP therapy requires 4-6 treatments 4-6 weeks apart to give patients the best possible results, with one maintenance treatment every 4-6 months.
3 STEP PROCESS OF PRP THERAPY
Step 1 – Blood Collection
A small amount of blood is drawn, similar to having a routine blood test.
Step 2 – Separate the Platelets
Your blood is placed in a special machine called a centrifuge. Your blood is spun for approximately 15 minutes to separate the components into red cells, white cells, and concentrated platelets. The PRP that contains abundant growth factors and stem cells is now ready to be applied to the scalp.
Step 3 – PRP Injection
The procedure involves minimal discomfort; patients typically do not require any numbing or downtime following treatment. The highly concentrated PRP is injected. You can return to your normal activity immediately.