In laymen’s terms: It’s a facial that essentially uses your own blood to help promote the healthy activity of your skin cells. Skin is naturally comprised of red blood cells and serum, which contain our white blood cells and platelets. The treatment is a combination of a microdermabrasion, followed by the application of PRP (platelet-rich plasma). The PRP is derived from the serum portion of the blood, which contains platelets. The platelets contain high levels of growth factors, which, when applied to the skin, will stimulate cell turnover. Platelets are rich in growth factors, which act as an energy boost for skin. This helps skin function optimally, increasing everything from collagen to elastin, while also recruiting antioxidant and hydrating properties. Platelet-rich plasma is now commonly used topically as part of a regular facial, used along with micro-needling to enhance penetration into the skin. PRP is also injected into the skin in the same manner as dermal fillers.
The PRP Process
The treatment begins with venipuncture (a blood draw) to obtain the blood. Contrary to popular belief, it’s relatively painless — aside from the first needle pinch. Typically, the process includes the initial blood draw, then running the blood through a centrifuge to isolate the platelets. Dentists then perform micro-needling or microdermabrasion just before PRPs are applied across the patient’s face. This can be accompanied with or without radio frequency, too. It is central to the evolving understanding of the physiology of the skin and advanced techniques with which to improve the quality of the skin. Recovery takes a day or two of downtime for the patient before you’re ready to hit the streets depending on how aggressive the microdermabrasion was on the skin. This course is taught by our physician anesthesiologists with years of clinical experience using PRP for boutique private plastic surgery centers. Additional clinical staff includes dentists that have solid experience incorporating PRP into their private practice. Each department chair is currently active at the university level teaching as an attending.