What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

At EdenMed Aesthetics and Rejuvenation clinics in Chelsea and Bournemouth, we're geared up to give you that glowing skin or hair growth boost you are looking for. Platelet rich plasma is a concentrated form of your own body's healing and building mechanism. It is derived from a sample of blood, which is spun down in a centrifuge to separate the heavy red and white blood cells at the bottom from the light plasma serum full of platelets and collagen stimulating substances at the top. This plasma can the be injected into any part of the body required for healing or growth stimulation. In aesthetic medicine this is particularly relevant as part of your skin care repertoire to induce more collagen production and therefore skin tightening and in the salp to stimulate unhealthy dying hair follicles to produce bigger, thicker and more numerous hair shafts. Ths thickening the hair. In the medical and dental world, PRP is gaining momentum in a vast number of degenerative conditions, from osteoarthritis to dry eye to dental caries. A newer form of PRP, known as PRF or platelet rich fibrin is showing even greater promise in pro-repair mechanisms. 

What are the benefits of PRP in aesthetic medicine?

PRP, platelet rich plasma, vampire facial, is fantastic for stimulating neocollagenesis (new collagen formation) in the skin. This results in greater skin tightness helping to lift saggy looking skin. It's wonderful in the areas around the eyes where fine lines are visible in the skin and anywhere that the skin appears thin through aging, ultraviolet light exposure or smoking. What it does not work well in is very deep skin creases that are caused by a variety of mechanisms. Although under the surface you will get the same pro-collagen stimulation, it probably would not be enough on its own to give the outward appearance most clients are looking for. In this situation Dr. Sam would usually recommend PRP as part of a treatment package. In addition to stimulating collagen and tightening the skin, PRP gives the skin a wonderful healthy glow. It can be very beneficial in switching off over-active skin pores that can lead to spots, inflammation or greasiness. 

It sounds too good to be true, does it really work?

"If I was only allowed to offer one treatment in my clinics it would be PRP." Say Dr. Sam Ghazawy MB.ChB. MRCP. MRCSEd. MRCGP. Founder, cheif aesthetics practitioner and pioneer in bespoke aesthetic treatment combinations at EdenMed's Aesthetics and Rejuvenation clinics in Chelsea and Bournemouth. "But as in life in general, having a variety of treatments to suit the individual needs of our clients is the best combination. We're lucky at EdenMed Aesthetics to have such a wide range of clinically and aesthetically proven treatments to meet our clients' needs."

How is it administered?

Platelet rich plasma for hair stimulation is injected under the skin with the finest needle manufactured. The procedure can be a little uncomfortable, but is completely worth it. For facial PRP, or indeed anywhere else on the body, it can be administered with a needle, microcannula or rubbed in to the skin after derma-rolling. Dr. Sam using a topical numbing cream to maximise his clients' comfort.

Is it safe?

Because it is your own body plasma that is injected, there is virtually no risk of an allergic reaction. The whole procedure is carried out in aseptic sterile conditions, thus minimising the risk of infection. Because PRP treatments injects pro-growth factors into the body, platelet rich plasma should not be incertain conditions such as cancer, autoimmune conditions or pregnancy. Be sure to mention any medical conditions you may have when you attend your consultation. YOUR COMFORT AND SAFETY ARE OUT TOP PRIORITY.

How many sessions will I need and how long do the effects last?

The number of PRP sessions needed depends on the area being treated and the desired outcome. In general the more session the better the result. Usually Dr. Sam recommends an initial course of treatments 4 weeks apart followed by maintenance 2 yearly thereafter. You will see effects immediately after one session. However, remember we cannot stop the aging process (loss of collagen, thinning hair), but we can replenish the body's natural healing and growth systems to build more collagen in the skin and help heal tired and worn out hair follicles.