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MICRONEEDLING with PRPWhat is a Bloody Facial?
A “bloody facial” is a micro-needling facial treatment combined with the application of platelet rich plasma (PRP) to your face. PRP is a concentrate of platelet-rich plasma protein derived from whole blood, which is used to treat mild to moderate acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, and loose skin. Micro-needling alone stimulates the body’s natural healing powers, but when adding PRP, those healing powers are dramatically enhanced. Growth factors contained in the alpha-granules of platelets include: platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor (TGF), platelet factor interleukin (IL), platelet-derived angiogenesis factor (PDAF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin-like growth factor IGF and fibronectin. How Does it Work? While the micro-needling works to break down old scar tissue and stimulate new skin cell formation, the PRP further enhances the process by promoting tissue repair and regeneration. Growth factors in PRP stimulate stem cells naturally and activate them. The end result is the production of building blocks for new tissue which is what causes the skin to have a smoother, more youthful appearance. Ask your Doctor if all PRP is made the same way? In order to work effectively, PRP needs to be concentrated at least 5 times the amount in normal plasma. Also, platelets must be activated at the correct time when in the desired tissue. Premature activation of PRP can result in treatment failure as well as the injection of PRP that does not release growth factors because it does not get activated after injection into the desired tissue. Patients should not be taking Aspirin or Plavix for at least 7 days prior to the procedure and also should avoid NSAIDS/anti-inflammatories for at least 3 days prior. These medications should not be taken for an additional 5 days after treatment is concluded. Our methods of PRP preparation and injection rely on a true understanding of the science of PRP and how to obtain optimal results with this treatment. What Can I Expect? You will meet with our physician to review any areas of specific concern and discuss the treatment further. If you decide the facial is for you, we will provide you with a topical numbing cream to apply about 30 minutes prior to arrival for your treatment. We will draw your blood and separate it in a double spin centrifuge protocol until the platelets are isolated and highly concentrated. We then use a specialized “pen” containing a cartridge with nine very fine needles to go over the skin, creating the micro injuries (tiny pin pricks). The PRP is then applied topically to the face as well as injected to specific areas of the face. The treatment has been described as feeling like sandpaper going over the skin, and some areas of scarring may be more sensitive. After the Treatment Mild bruising and redness are to be expected following the treatment, although discomfort is not usually reported. We recommend allowing two days of “downtime” and avoiding the sun during that time. Makeup can be applied the following day. Within 1-2 weeks you will start seeing a younger looking you! Depending on skin characteristics, a series of these treatments may be necessary for optimal results. |
PhillipJ. Din, MD
Individual patient results may vary**
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