Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that works on harnessing the ability of growth factors of the body to heal tissue. The therapy uses an injectable substance derived from the plasma and buffy coat of our blood. The platelets and white blood cells obtained from the blood are crucial for regenerating injured tissue. Once injected into the tissue, it signals the area to begin the healing process, including increased blood flow, driving growth factors, and new cells beginning to prosper.
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma?
Platelet-rich plasma is composed of plasma(or the liquid portion of blood) and platelets that play a vital role in stimulating the growth of cells and tissues throughout the body. Platelets contain growth factors that act as ‘healing agents’ and can trigger cell differentiation and cell division and stimulate tissue regeneration.
How is Platelet-Rich Plasma created?
Platelet-Rich Plasma is created by taking a blood sample from the patient and placing it into a device called a ‘centrifuge.’ A centrifuge rapidly spins the blood sample, separating the other components of the blood from the platelets and then concentrating them within the plasma.
What is the mechanism behind the Platelet-Rich Plasma procedure?
After creating platelet-rich plasma from a patient’s blood sample, the solution is injected into the target area, such as an injured knee or a tendon. In certain cases, an ultrasound test may also be done to guide the injection. The main principle behind the therapy is to boost the concentration of specific bio proteins or hormones, called growth factors, in a specific area to speed up the healing process.
Studies show that platelet-rich plasma stimulates platelet activation which eventually allows the injured body part to start healing since it is imitating the body’s natural response to an injury. This accelerates healing time for injuries, decreases pain, and even encourages new growth.
How much time does it take to recover after PRP therapy?
The usual recovery time for any PRP treatment varies between 4 to 6 weeks. In joint injuries, PRP injections into musculoskeletal issues usually take 6 weeks or more to heal. However, for cosmetic PRP treatments, like hair and skin rejuvenation, recovery time is relatively minimal and takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Your doctor may recommend a few guidelines to follow post a PRP treatment, and they are as under:
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications for at least 4 weeks post-therapy
- Avoid taking blood-thinning herbs, supplements, or vitamins for 21 days post-therapy
- Avoid taking systemic steroids for at least 6 weeks post-therapy
- Do not apply ice or heat to the injection site for the first 72 hours post-procedure
- Avoid a hot bath or a sauna for the first few days following your procedure
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for 2 days post-procedure
- Avoid taking a bath for the first 24 hours post-procedure
- Avoid smoking
How effective is Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment?
Research shows that the PRP treatment accelerates healing after injury or surgery for certain conditions, like osteoarthritis, torn meniscus, and muscle strains. In addition to helping injured tissue heal, some studies show PRP injections reduce pain and boost mobility for people with rotator cuff strains and tears. The benefits of PRP injections may take between four and six weeks to appear. Even beyond this window, the platelet-rich plasma will continue to aid in effective regeneration and healing for anywhere from six and nine months.
What injuries can PRP help?
PRP procedure is known to treat many ailments or injuries, safely and effectively. From treating weakened ligaments and tendons to skin and hair revitalization, PRP Therapy can benefit in many ways.
- Osteoarthritis: Platelet-rich plasma treatment can improve low- to moderate-grade knee and hip osteoarthritis. A few studies indicate that PRP injections can help treat osteoarthritis pain and stiffness by modulating the collaborative environment and reducing inflammation.
- Chronic tendon injuries: PRP can be used to treat the tendinopathy. Basic science studies have consistently shown the beneficial effects of PRP in the case of tennis elbow and jumper’s knee. When combined with regular treatment, PRP shots can stimulate the healing process and reduce pain. PRP works by increasing tendon cell proliferation, and expression of anabolic genes and proteins, thereby reducing tendon inflammation.
- Hair loss: PRP therapy can stimulate the weakened hair follicles, causing your hairline to recede. Platelet-rich plasma triggers tissue and cell repair in the region and produces collagen and elastin for the skin in the area. This eventually helps treat male pattern baldness, prevents hair loss, and promotes new hair growth. PRP can also speed up hair growth after hair transplants.
- Skin Rejuvenation: PRP for skin generally helps to boost collagen production, which helps in restoring glow and radiance to the skin. PRP injections are also sometimes used as an anti-aging treatment, but there is little evidence to show that PRP works on wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Are there any risks and side effects associated with Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment?
As PRP is derived from your blood, there is no risk of developing an allergic response or immune reaction. In fact, the side effects or risks associated with PRP injection are extremely low in the literature.
The procedure involves blood extraction; hence, ensure you are sufficiently hydrated and have eaten beforehand to prevent dizziness. After the procedure, experiencing some soreness and bruising at the injection site is common.
However, some of one adverse effect may experience after PRP injection:
- Bleeding
- Tissue damage
- Infection
- Nerve injuries
How much does Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment cost?
The cost of a single PRP treatment will typically fall in the price range of $500–2,500. People may also require repeat treatments. The cost of the treatment can vary depending on location, facilities, and the type of treatment. A few insurance plans may cover the cost of PRP treatment.
Where can I get the best PRP treatment at an affordable cost?
If you are looking for the best PRP facility near you, then Enriched Med Spa is your answer. Enriched Med Spa offers a one-stop solution for all your rejuvenation needs. It thoroughly diagnoses the problem and presents patients with the best options per their expectations. All our treatments are performed under the strict guidance of the best skin & hair specialists who have acquired the technical skills required to perform all types of PRP injections. Their uniquely formulated Platelet-rich Plasma Therapy has shown exceptional beneficial effects without major adverse reactions or side effects.
