Our blood, the vital fluid circulating in our veins, makes up 1/3 of our body weight. The liquid part of the blood, outside of its cellular components, is called “plasma,” and it is responsible for transporting important substances like amino acids, carbohydrates, and elements to our tissues. One of the key cells in the blood is the platelet (thrombocyte). The main job of platelets is to stop bleeding and initiate healing when the integrity of a blood vessel is compromised. Platelets contain many growth factors and cytokines. Because of these properties, platelets help wounds heal. Since their benefits were discovered, they have been used in many ways in medicine to help damaged tissues return to normal, with successful results. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is blood that has been enriched with a person’s own platelet/thrombocyte cells.
WHAT ARE THE USES AND BENEFITS OF PRP?
PRP is used for non-healing wounds, orthopedic issues, vascular problems, in dentistry, and for aesthetic purposes.
1) USES IN DERMATOLOGY
PRP treatment is used for wrinkles, blemishes, acne scars, and stretch marks. After the treatment, a reduction in sagging and wrinkle lines is observed. Applying spot treatments like peeling and laser alongside PRP can speed up the treatment process and support lasting results. It can be applied to all age groups and genders. It cannot be used in cancer patients or those with a low platelet count. PRP is applied in 3 to 4 sessions with a 2-week interval and can be repeated every 10 to 12 months. Each session lasts for an average of 30 minutes. PRP can be injected into deep wrinkles like a filler, or it can be used for mesotherapy or as a mask.
Since PRP comes from the patient’s own body, there are no side effects. Because no foreign substances are used, there is no possibility of allergies or other reactions. There may only be mild pain and bruising at the injection site.
2) PREVENTING HAIR LOSS
PRP is one of the cosmetic procedures used to prevent hair loss. The PRP, prepared from the person’s own blood, is injected into the areas where hair loss is occurring. Thanks to the growth factors and tissue-healing proteins it contains, it stimulates cell renewal in those areas.
IS PRP A STEM CELL TREATMENT?
PRP treatment is not a stem cell treatment. PRP treatment increases the number of platelets that initiate the entire healing process. After the procedure, the fibrin networks that form in the skin indirectly work with stem cells by attracting them to their structure. Therefore, when PRP rich in platelets is applied to the skin, it triggers a process of repair and renewal.
HOW IS PRP OBTAINED?
For PRP treatment, a blood sample is taken from the patient and placed into special tubes. These tubes are then put into a centrifuge, which spins at a high speed. The centrifuge must spin at a specific speed and duration to obtain plasma rich in platelet cells.
HOW IS PRP TREATMENT APPLIED?
In the plasma obtained from the patient’s blood, the portion that settles at the bottom of the tube is the richest in clot-forming cells and growth factors. This concentrated plasma is applied to the problem area of the skin with the help of tiny needles. The PRP serum can also be applied to the skin after fractional laser or fractional radiofrequency treatments. This allows the PRP to be easily absorbed through the opened pores.
HOW OFTEN IS PRP DONE?
PRP treatment is done at intervals of 2-4 weeks.
WHO SHOULD NOT GET PRP?
The procedure is not performed on those with a family history of cancer, those who take blood thinners, those with blood disorders, those with infection or inflammation in the treatment area, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
WHEN ARE THE RESULTS OF PRP TREATMENT SEEN?
Since PRP treatment is based on the principle of the skin or treated tissue renewing itself, it is incorrect to expect immediate results. The results of PRP treatment become visible after the second or third session. After aesthetic PRP treatment, you will see skin tightening and reduced sagging, lighter wrinkles, brighter skin blemishes, a more vibrant skin tone, and reduced scarring. After applications to the scalp, you will notice an increase in hair thickness and a denser appearance in areas that were previously sparse.
HOW LONG DOES PRP AFFECT WORK AND SOCIAL LIFE?
After a PRP application, you can continue your normal life. The procedure does not create any appearance that would affect your work or social life. In some cases, small and temporary bruising and redness may occur due to the needles used during the procedure. Applying an ice pack after the treatment will help reduce these side effects.
WHAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AFTER A PRP PROCEDURE?
- Do not take a hot bath on the same day as the procedure.
- Sunscreen should be used.
