Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is a natural substance created from your own blood. It is valuable in the facial aesthetic setting because it contains important growth factors that help stimulate the regeneration and rejuvenation of your skin. Generally, in combination with microneedling, we use PRP therapy in Waterloo, Ontario, for the cosmetic treatment of wrinkles or scars in the face, hands, and neck, and to generate a thicker, more elastic and youthful appearing skin.
Why platelets?
Platelets are key because platelets are rich in a variety of growth factors that respond to tissue injury, such as microneedling, and initiate and promote healing. PRP harnesses your own natural biological power to correct skin defects, wrinkles and volume loss, triggering the production of new cells and collagen.
What is the PRP process?
Generally, platelet-rich plasma is used in combination with a microneedling procedure. During a short office visit, a small amount of your blood is drawn into a vacuum collection tube containing an anticoagulant agent. The tube is then placed into a centrifuge and spun to separate the platelets and plasma from the red blood cells. The clear golden PRP fluid containing the platelets and plasma is then drawn into a sterile syringe, ready for use as deemed appropriate by Dr. Shenker and The Beauty Nurse® team.
What is Microneedling + PRP?
Microneedling with PRP is a procedure that combines the mechanical process of microneedling with the application of PRP. While each of these two procedures can be effective on its own, together they are much more powerful. Microneedling infuses your skin with PRP that stimulates collagen and elastin production and promotes cell turnover to produce your most brilliant complexion. While the skin tightens after just one treatment, the more frequently you get the treatment, the better your results will be.
Can anyone have a treatment?
If you are pregnant or have active acne, you cannot have Microneedling with PRP. Patients on blood thinners or who have significant major underlying medical conditions may require special consideration to develop a plan that is safe and effective.
Could I be allergic to PRP?
There is virtually no risk of allergic reaction since PRP is taken from your own blood.
What should I expect after a Microneedling + PRP?
Expect to see tighter, firmer, glowing and rejuvenated skin. Fibroblasts will be activated, promoting new collagen and elastin in the skin resulting in healthy-looking, glowing skin.
How many treatments will I need?
A series of three Microneedling + PRP treatments administered once every four weeks, followed by one to two maintenance treatments yearly produces optimal results.
How long do the results last?
Like most non-surgical skin rejuvenation therapies, treatments should be viewed as regenerative and ongoing in nature. Fibroblasts within the skin will be activated to lay down new collagen and elastin, resulting in thicker and more elastic skin. These effects should last for approximately 12 months post-treatment before the effects of aging are once again seen. One to two yearly maintenance treatments are recommended.
What is the downtime?
You will experience very minimal downtime. Initial redness and slight swelling can be expected, which resolve within 24 hours. Some patients have absolutely no bruising post-treatment; others, particularly with very fragile skin, will experience bruising and blotchiness post-treatment that can take up to 4 days to settle. Some patients may experience mild and temporary irritation, itching and tenderness.
How do I arrange my treatment?
To get started, contact us at The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic and book a consultation with any member of our Beauty Nurse® team.
