Platelet rich plasma (PRP) and injectable platelet rich fibrin (iPRF) therapy is an extremely safe, well researched and pioneering treatment which uses the body’s own growth factors to bio-stimulate the synthesis and repair of damaged and ageing tissues including collagen and bone. The research underpinning PRP therapy is Nobel Prize winning and has been used to treat orthopaedic and sports injuries for many years receiving worldwide acclaim and recognition. More recently, the enhanced regenerative and reparative qualities of PRP and iPRF have been harnessed and used in skin rejuvenation and anti ageing, being popularised by many celebrities including the Kardashians.
The treatment involves taking a small amount of blood (a similar amount to that required for a blood test) and then using specialised equipment and techniques to extract the portion of the blood known as “platelet rich plasma” (PRP) and injectable platelet rich fibrin (iPRF)
This PRP and iPRF has been scientifically proven to be highly concentrated in a number of growth factors and naturally occurring chemicals that are instrumental in cell regeneration and repair. These regenerative and reparative factors include: Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), Transforming Growth Factor (TGF) 1 and 2, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and Epithelial Cell Growth Factor (ECGF).
The prepared PRP and iPRF is then placed in specific parts of the face which have suffered as a result of ageing, so that the regenerative and reparative growth factors can stimulate the cells that create collagen and bone to regenerate and repair to help reverse the ageing process. The PRP can be placed by injection in specific sites prone to the loss of tissue through the ageing process- this is known as the “Vampire Facelift”,
The PRP and iPRF can also be placed more superficially through microneedling to help tighten and restore elasticity in the skin. The majority of patients opt for a combination therapy for optimal results, placing the PRP and iPRF using both the Vampire Facelift Technique and also the microneedling technique.
Although PRP and iPRF therapy is extremely safe (using “autologous” products) all patients undergo a thorough examination and some precautions are required both pre- and post-operatively.
