Platelet Rich Plasma Facial Rejuvenation
A patient’s own blood cells and plasma have regenerative properties, and can be used as a treatment for anti-aging. These cells can rejuvenate skin, tendons, and bones, and when injected into the face, stimulate firmer and younger looking skin. This non-surgical procedure is relatively inexpensive, and is effective for prolonging a more youthful appearance into middle age. As the procedure uses the patient’s own blood, it is metaphorically referred to as the “Vampire Facelift”.
How does the Vampire Lift work?
Blood contains erythrocytes, lymphocytes, platelets and plasma. Platelets are cells responsible for clotting. They do this by adhering to each other and preventing haemorrhages. When blood clots, tissues around it will retract due to protein fibrin produced by platelet adherence. Micro-injuries produced by a needle will trigger a similar initial reaction, and thanks to the injection of active platelets, the contraction effect is significantly augmented. In isolating activated platelets suspended in liquid plasma (PRP), the physician is also able to extract mesenchymal stem cells and growth factors in genetically predetermined ratios. Injecting this PRP extract into skin, the platelets form a bioactive platform of fibrin clot, allowing the release of numerous active growth factors that promote tissue repair, new blood vessel formation and collagen synthesis.
How is it done?
After an initial consultation, your doctor will take a blood sample from the arm. PRP is extracted in a special machine. The facial target area for treatment is then cleansed, and anaesthetic cream is applied to reduce discomfort. The extraction is then injected into skin at multiple locations. The whole process takes about one hour. The best results are obtained by repeating the procedure 3 or 4 times at one month intervals, and then once a year following that.
Are there side effects?
As the patient’s own blood is used, there are no adverse effects. Slight swelling and bruising are likely after the injections, but these subside in a few days. To avoid infection, the injected area should be kept clean for 24hrs.
Combined with other treatments
The ‘Vampire face lift’ can be safely combined with other rejuvenating treatments such as Gold Thread Skin Rejuvenation, volume replacement with Dermal fillers or autologous fat, wrinkle minimizing treatments, mini facelifts and laser skin treatments.
