What is PRP?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) uses one’s own platelets to help accelerate healing and tissue regrowth, through activating the body’s innate healing system.

PRP contains approximately 580 different types of proteins such as platelet-derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and transforming growth factor beta. The combination of these proteins and growth factors stimulate stem cells and improve cell proliferation, differentiation and regeneration which lead to improved skin rejuvenation and hyaluronic acid production (2). PRP also activated fibroblasts for synthesizing collagen and elements of the extracellular matrix which also can improve the appearance of scars.

How do Platelets work?

Platelets are part of the blood that are activated when there is injury to tissue to help stop bleeding and releasing growth factors. When platelets are re-injected into the body, they signal the release of growth factors to stimulate and increase specific activity of target (reparative) cells and regenerative cells (1).

Why Use PRP?

Some of the main advantages of PRP therapy include:  1. Reduced need for anti-inflammatory or pain medications

2. Reduced need for surgery

3. Optimization or enhanced recovery from surgery or injury

4. Collagen regeneration and healing of skin, tendon, muscles and ligaments

5. Hair follicle stimulation for hair growth

6. Enlarged tissue

History of PRP

PRP was first used in 1954 in transfusions for thrombocytopenia (low platelets). In the 1960’s, it appeared in blood banks. In 1975, it began being incorporated into maxillofacial surgeries and reconstructive treatments to optimize tissue healing. In 2009, PRP became FDA approved. In 2006, Dr. Darvish learned about PRP therapy and became certified in its uses for joint applications. In 2012, she became certified in its aesthetic and sexual health applications. she has now trained several doctors in these techniques.

Applications of PRP:

Hair growth

Facelifts/facials (softens wrinkles and deep creases, plumps skin, can improve complexion, improves the appearance of acne scars)

Breast lifts

Wound healing

Orthopedic: injuries, arthritis, joint pain,  wear and tear of joints/ligaments/tendons, muscle pain

Dental procedures

Erectile Dysfunction

Urinary Incontinence

Female sexual dysfunction and pelvic conditions

Other applications of PRP being investigated.

What does the procedure involve?

The procedure is quite simple and takes relatively a short time.

First, the patient’s blood is drawn – the equivalent to a couple tablespoons – and spun down in a centrifuge to separate platelets. Platelets are extracted and injected into the same patient’s  tissue. PRP therapies often have minimal down time.

Interested in learning to see if you are a candidate for PRP or would like to discuss your options for treatment, contact Holistique’s concierge team to schedule a consult with one of our PRP providers.

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4828525/

2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8664171/