What I Wish I Knew About PRP Treatment

In the past few years, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) has become a popular treatment for combating the signs of aging. It’s a non-surgical option that utilizes cutting-edge technology and techniques to create visible improvements in the skin.

But what is PRP, how does it work, and what results can you expect? These are questions people may wish they’d asked before trying this state-of-the-art treatment — so we’ll answer them for you in this post.

How PRP treatment works

Platelet Rich Plasma treatment is designed to help your body repair damage using its own substances — specifically, the blood.

The plasma within your blood is made up of platelets, rich in growth factors. Plasma itself consists of glucose, clotting factors, proteins, and hormones.

PRP involves taking a sample of blood from your arm as you would for any standard blood test, and separating the platelets in a centrifuge. This spins the blood at very high speeds to cause the platelets to shift away from each other.

The separated plasma is removed and prepared to be injected back into the body, in one or more target areas. As the plasma releases growth factors, it stimulates and boosts the number of cells performing repairs within your skin.

As a result, PRP treatment can lead to enhanced elastic and collagen production — making your skin more elastic, firmer, and youthful. That’s why it’s used commonly to:

• reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles

• combat the visibility of dark circles forming underneath the eyes

• reduce the appearance of stretch marks

• decrease the visibility of scars, including those related to acne

• increase the healing speed of tendon and/or ligament damage

PRP treatment is commonly used to enhance the appearance of the skin on the face, hands, and neck. However, it suits other needs, too:

• O-shots involve injecting PRP into the female genitals to increase sexual arousal and natural lubrication

• P-shots are designed to improve sensitivity in the penis, while increasing length and girth

• Platelet Rich Plasma therapy is also utilized to treat hair loss and restore growth in balding/thinning areas

What should you expect during your PRP treatment?

First and foremost, there’s no need to worry about discomfort during PRP therapy — there’s little to none. This is a simple procedure based around injections, and we use the safest, latest equipment for your total peace of mind.

The risks of experiencing any side effects as a result of your PRP therapy are incredibly slim, but we want you to be aware regardless. As PRP is an autologous treatment (relying on substances taken from you directly), the danger of experiencing an allergic reaction as you might from certain other medications is significantly reduced.

Other side effects may include:

• tissue damage

• infection

• injuries to the nerves

• discomfort at the site of injection(s)

Again, you’re unlikely to be affected by any of these, but we want to draw your attention to these potential side effects and help you make an informed decision.

What will happen before my PRP treatment?

It’s crucial that you know exactly how your PRP therapy will unfold, from the moment you step into the treatment room to the moment you leave. We’ll discuss the process with you at length during your consultation, and determine whether PRP therapy is the right option for you based on your goals, health status, etc.

However, typical recommendations for anyone preparing to undergo our PRP therapy include:

• avoiding alcohol for a brief period before your treatment

• abstaining from caffeine (in coffee and other drinks or supplements)

• avoiding anti-inflammatories

• eating nutritious, healthy foods

• being as well-rested as you can be ahead of your treatment

Certain recommendations may vary from one case to another, but generally, we advise you to follow the steps discussed above.

How long will my PRP treatment take?

Your PRP therapy session should take no longer than an hour and a half, though it may run longer or shorter (so allow at least a couple of hours, just in case).

Typically, it takes around half an hour to take a sample of your blood and process the platelets, preparing them to be reinjected into your system. Another half hour or so may be required to inject them and bring the treatment to a close, though it could take less time than this.

We’ll be able to offer a more accurate timeframe during your consultation, but use the above as an approximate guideline when planning your schedule.

What happens after my PRP procedure?

The average recovery time after a Platelet Rich Plasma injection tends to fall within three or four hours, but it could vary from case to case. You may experience some swelling, tenderness, or bruising shortly after the injections, though they will pass fairly quickly.

If you want to minimize any swelling or bruising that might occur, apply cold packs to the treatment areas gently. Avoid washing these areas for at least 24 hours, and stay out of direct sunlight. Skip hot showers and baths, too.

You should allow the treatment area(s) to rest and recover immediately after your PRP therapy. You will likely be able to continue with your usual or planned activities following your session, such as going back to work (unless you have a physically-exerting job) or shopping.

Over the following weeks, you should notice positive changes to the skin in the treated areas. This may include tighter skin, less-visible wrinkles, and a better appearance overall.

We’ll provide you with any further advice on the day of your treatment, and will be available to answer any questions you may have.

That brings our post on what you need to know about PRP treatment before you try it for yourself to a close. We hope it answers all of your questions, but if not, you know where to find us.

Ready to book your own PRP therapy session or just want to learn more about your options? Get in touch with our team today!