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PRP\PRF Specialist

FoxHall Dermatology

Dermatologists located in Washington, DC

PRP\PRF Q & A

What are PRP and PRF?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) are advanced regenerative therapies that utilize your body's own platelets to promote healing and rejuvenation. These treatments harness the natural growth factors found in your blood to stimulate tissue repair, improve skin texture, and enhance overall appearance.

How are PRP and PRF Prepared?

Both PRP and PRF are derived from your blood through a simple and safe process:

  1. Blood Draw: A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm, similar to a routine blood test.
  2. Centrifugation: The blood is then placed in a centrifuge, which spins it at high speed to separate the components. For PRP, the blood is spun to concentrate platelets in the plasma. For PRF, a slower centrifugation process is used to obtain a fibrin matrix rich in platelets and growth factors.
  3. Extraction: The PRP or PRF is extracted and prepared for injection.

Applications of PRP and PRF:

  • Skin Rejuvenation: PRP and PRF can improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity by stimulating collagen production. These treatments are effective for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars.
  • Hair Restoration: PRP and PRF are used to treat hair loss by injecting the growth factors into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles, promoting hair growth and improving hair density.
  • Wound Healing: These therapies can enhance the healing process for chronic wounds and surgical scars.

Procedure and Recovery:

  • Procedure: PRP and PRF treatments are typically performed in-office and take about 30-60 minutes. The prepared PRP or PRF is injected into the target area using fine needles or microneedling techniques.
  • Recovery: Patients may experience mild swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites, which usually resolves within a few days. There is minimal downtime, and most individuals can return to their normal activities immediately.

Results and Longevity:

  • Results: Improvements in skin texture and tone can be seen within a few weeks, with continued improvement over several months as collagen production increases. For hair restoration, noticeable changes can occur within three to six months.
  • Longevity: The effects of PRP and PRF treatments can last from six months to over a year, depending on the individual and the specific application.

Safety and Side Effects:

  • Safety: PRP and PRF treatments are generally safe, as they use your body's own blood components, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or adverse effects.
  • Side Effects: Common side effects are temporary and include mild swelling, redness, and bruising at the injection sites. Rarely, infection or other complications may occur.

Consultation:

It is important to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss your goals and determine if PRP or PRF therapy is suitable for you.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.