Platelet-rich plasma consists of two elements: plasma, or the liquid portion of blood, and platelets, a type of blood cell that plays an important role in healing throughout the body. Platelets are well-known for their clotting abilities, but they also contain growth factors that can trigger cell reproduction and stimulate tissue regeneration or healing in the treated area. Platelet-rich plasma is simply blood that contains more platelets than normal.
To create platelet-rich plasma, clinicians take a blood sample from the patient and place it into a device called a centrifuge that rapidly spins the sample, separating out the other components of the blood from the platelets and concentrating them within the plasma.
After creating platelet-rich plasma from a patient’s blood sample, that solution is injected into the target area, such as an injured knee or a tendon. In some cases, the clinician may use ultrasound to guide the injection. The idea is to increase the concentration of specific bioproteins or hormones, called growth factors, in a specific area to accelerate the healing process.
The mechanism behind PRP injections is not completely understood. Studies show that the increased concentration of growth factors in platelet-rich plasma may stimulate or speed up the healing process, shortening healing time for injuries, decreasing pain and even encouraging hair growth.
At Premier we offer PRP treatments for the following purposes:
Premier “Glow” is a facial to increase collagen, decrease fine lines and wrinkles, boost elastin and assist in the anti aging process.
Because the treatments use a patient’s own tissues, PRP injections are safe and can be administered alone or used in conjunction with other procedures.
Premier “ReGrow” is used to promote hair growth. The technique can address male pattern baldness, stimulate the growth of hair transplants and enhance other cosmetic procedures. The injections can also be used for women who are suffering from thinning hair, hair loss or receded hairlines.
Premier “Recovery” is used for injuries.
PRP treatment can help support wound healing in trauma and joint injury. The patient’s plasma is injected into the affected area to promote healing.