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Dermatologists Take on Popular Trends Series – PRP Injections

PRP injections are gaining rapid popularity in the medical world. From hair loss to aiding in sports related injuries, PRP injections are known to speed up recovery in specified areas. How may you ask? PRP (platelet-rich plasma) consists of two elements: the plasma (liquid blood) and platelets, which are the blood cells that are crucial for promoting healing in our bodies. Essentially, they trigger cell reproduction and tissue regeneration. When used as injections, platelets can accomplish this in the chosen injection location.

platelet rich plasma

Read on to see what the Alamo Heights Dermatology team has to say in response to frequently asked questions about this popular trend.

Note: We’ve decided to use a rating scale (1-5) to represent the glow-up potential of this trend. For example: “This trend was rated a 5 out of 5 for glow-up potential.

PRP Injection FAQ’s:

What are PRP injections? 

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses a patient’s own concentrated platelets to accelerate healing and in cosmetic or anti-aging procedures.

What conditions can PRP treat?

PRP in dermatology has become a versatile option to help restore facial volume, stimulate hair growth in several types of hair loss, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

How does it work? 

Plasma is the liquid portion of whole blood. It is composed of water and proteins as well as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Platelet activation is important in healing in the body. PRP injections are prepared by taking a tube of blood and running it through a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. These platelets are then activated. Activated platelets release growth factors that stimulate and increase the number of representative cells in the tissue.

Is it safe? 

Yes, PRP is very safe as it is your body’s own regenerative medicine so to speak.

What is the procedure process/does it hurt? 

The procedure is quite easy. It requires an in-office blood draw to harvest the plasma. Once concentrated and activated the PRP can be injected into the scalp, to stimulate hair growth, or skin to stimulate collagen growth. PRP can also be micro needled into the skin. Pain is usually relatively minimal as we utilized modalities including topical anesthesia for micro needling and cooling devices for injections.

How long will it take to see results? 

Generally, other than the immediate swelling, the results aren’t immediate. The downstream effects of the activated platelets triggering growth factors can take some time. When used in combination with micro needling, improvements can be seen in the skin appearance as early as 5 to 7 days. When injected for hair loss or into the face for volume and antiaging, it may require a series of treatments over several weeks to start seeing results.

Glow scale: 

5!!!! I cannot say enough about PRP. In our practice we see amazing results from the process. SIGN ME UP!

Come visit us at Alamo Heights Dermatology for all your general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatological needs! Schedule your consultation at (210) 255-8447 or request an appointment online today.

Resources:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/plateletrich-plasma-prp-treatment

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