For many years, the medical community has been acutely aware of the body’s natural regenerative qualities. Physicians across all fields, including orthopedics, dentistry, and sports medicine, have implemented protocols that work synergistically with the body. The use of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is common for promoting joint recovery and managing degenerative disease. It was only a matter of time before science discovered the value that PRF held for the body’s largest organ: the skin.
We are pleased to offer PRF treatments to help our patients address their cosmetic concerns.
What is PRF?
PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin, is an organic substance that has long been advocated for its ability to facilitate tissue regeneration and wound healing. The substance exists in every person’s blood, which makes it safe and convenient. PRF is obtained through a simple blood draw and centrifuge (spinning) process. Centrifugation of the blood separates nutrient-rich fibrin and platelets from red blood cells and other components.
Platelets are valuable because they contain a large number of growth factors. These include epithelial and vascular epithelial growth factors, as well as fibroblast and connective tissue growth factors. Each type of growth promotes vital processes such as inflammatory response, blood vessel regeneration, tissue remodeling, and cell proliferation.
What are the benefits of platelet-rich fibrin injections?
PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin, is an organic substance that has long been advocated for its ability to facilitate tissue regeneration and wound healing. The substance exists in every person’s blood, which makes it safe and convenient. PRF is obtained through a simple blood draw and centrifuge (spinning) process. Centrifugation of the blood separates nutrient-rich fibrin and platelets from red blood cells and other components.
Platelets are valuable because they contain a large number of growth factors. These include epithelial and vascular epithelial growth factors, as well as fibroblast and connective tissue growth factors. Each type of growth promotes vital processes such as inflammatory response, blood vessel regeneration, tissue remodeling, and cell proliferation.
How does PRF work for aesthetic rejuvenation?
Platelet-rich fibrin is used in two ways to improve the appearance and overall vitality of the skin. The product may be injected beneath wrinkles, hollows, and areas of deflation, and it may also be applied topically in a gentle microneedling procedure.
The way that PRF improves texture, volume, and radiance is by inducing numerous regenerative processes. The various growth factors that exist within blood fibrin provide essential proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and other nutrients to the skin. Proteins are integral to the formation of the fibrin polymer, which lays a strong foundation for firm, youthful tissue. Platelets within the fibrin naturally respond to injuries in the body, prompting accelerated tissue regeneration through vascular and cellular regrowth.
How long do PRF injections take?
PRF treatment with injections takes only slightly longer than an average injectable treatment. We begin with a standard blood draw. If desired, a topical numbing cream can be applied to the treatment area while the blood is processed in the centrifuge. This takes just a few minutes. The provider carefully observes the face and may mark areas where injections are recommended. The entire process is typically complete within 15 to 20 minutes. Microneedling with PRF is also brief, taking approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.
What happens after the PRF Procedure?
Patients can resume normal activity immediately following their PRP procedure. Slight redness and swelling should be expected. Some patients notice minor bruising. These side effects typically disappear within the first day after treatment.
How long will it take to see results?
Patients who undergo microneedling with PRF may notice an immediate boost in the radiance and softness of their skin. PRF injections work beneath the surface to restructure the collagen matrix in superficial tissue, so results from injections alone become more noticeable after a few weeks.
As healing mechanisms increase, patients notice improvements such as:
- Smoother texture due to improved collagen formation.
- More radiance due to new blood vessel formation.
- Fresher, younger-looking skin due to the influx of vital nutrients.
What are the advantages of PRF vs. other injectables?
Studies have indicated that patients treated with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) facials and facelifts find that their results continue to improve over time. Several months after treatment, the effects of cellular regeneration may be even more noticeable than they are right after microneedling or injections. This is because PRF stimulates cellular activity in which collagen and elastin are remodeled.
From research, we can recognize that platelet-rich fibrin progressively improves the skin while other injectables gradually degrade as the body metabolizes the foreign substance. The results of PRF treatments may continue to improve for more than a year, providing results that last up to two years or more. Furthermore, research suggests that the cellular stimulation achieved with annual PRF treatments could offset the natural degenerative aging process.
What risks are associated with PRF?
PRF treatments, even when performed for aesthetic gains, fall into the category of regenerative medicine. The growth factors and nutrients within platelet-rich fibrin literally stimulate cellular regeneration wherever the organic product is introduced. PRF supports the body’s natural healing mechanisms and does not include any foreign substances or chemicals. Therefore, there is virtually no risk of allergic reaction to the product.
An important note about PRF injections and microneedling treatment: patients should obtain care from a trained professional. While the risk of prolonged swelling and infection is very low, the manner in which treatment is performed can affect the outcome. Our team has been educated in the safe, effective, and comfortable performance of PRF treatments.
Your body has incredible regenerative power, and we know how to harness it. Contact us today to learn more about our PRF services.