FAQs About PRP Therapy

Are you curious about platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and how it can benefit your inward health and outward appearance? In this article, we will address some commonly asked questions about this innovative treatment option. Read on to gain the insightful information you need to make an informed decision about pursuing platelet-rich plasma therapy.

What Does PRP Therapy Comprise?

PRP therapy uses two important components in your blood: plasma and platelets.

Plasma is a yellowish liquid that makes up a significant portion of the total blood volume. It contains proteins, nutrients, hormones, and other substances to help keep the body in balance. It comprises mostly water and suspended proteins, including albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen. It also contains electrolytes, such as sodium, calcium, and magnesium, and other important substances, such as clotting factors.

Platelets are small, irregularly shaped fragments of cells that are essential for blood clotting. Platelets emanate from the bone marrow and are conserved in the spleen. They help to form clots by sticking to the walls of damaged blood vessels and releasing substances that cause the clotting process. Platelets also help the body to repair damaged tissues.

How Does a Physician Administer PRP Therapy?

PRP is a concentrate of platelets used in regenerative medicine. A physician takes a sample of a patient's blood and spins it in a centrifuge. This process separates the plasma from the red and white blood cells. They then collect the concentrated platelets from this sample and injected into the patient's body.

The physician will administer the PRP injection directly into the area of injury or damage, such as a torn ligament or tendon or an arthritic joint, to help promote healing and regeneration. The concentrated platelets contain growth factors that can help to stimulate the body's own healing response.

What Are the Benefits of PRP Treatment?

PRP therapy delivers biomolecules called growth factors that generate aesthetic benefits for patients. The factors that generate aesthetic benefits in PRP therapy include the stimulation of collagen formation, the promotion of tissue regeneration and wound healing, the improvement of skin texture and tone, and the attenuation of pigmentation.

PRP has become an area of active interest in dermatology in the last decade, particularly in the management of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). PRP may stimulate stem cell proliferation and differentiation in the follicle bulge, which leads to possible improvement in hair growth.

Additionally, PRP can assist in skin rejuvenation and chronic wound healing. PRP can increase expression of extracellular matrix products like type I collagen, elastin, MMP1, and MMP2, which lead to improved skin elasticity and cosmetic appearance.

PRP can also promote wound healing in various types of chronic ulcers, including stasis, diabetic, venous, and traumatic. Finally, PRP can substitute microneedling in the management of post-acne scars. 

Does PRP Have Any Side Effects?

PRP injections are low-risk procedures and usually do not cause any major side effects. However, before the injection, ensure you are well hydrated and fed to prevent feeling lightheaded during the blood draw. The injection site might develop some soreness or bruise you at the delivery site. 

People who have an abnormal platelet function or a low platelet count, anemia, cancer, or an infection are not candidates for PRP injections. Consult a physician before you attempt PRP therapy to understand if you qualify for the treatment.

As mentioned above, a qualified physician or nurse can ensure you receive a safe and effective treatment. Contact us at Timeless Aesthetic Injections to book an appointment for a PRP session today. We offer PRP therapy and other aesthetic services for residents in Peru and Greentown, IN. We’ll ensure that you look and feel your best.