Prp

The body’s ability to heal itself is quite powerful. However, as we age, this ability decreases and tissue damage cannot return to normal as quickly as before. PRP, short for “platelet-rich plasma”, or “platelet-rich plasma”, aims to speed up the slow healing process with a small intervention. This effect works in many cosmetic and aesthetic fields.

Intensive research and applications in recent years have proven the functionality of PRP. If you are looking for an answer to the question “What is PRP?” or want to have an aesthetic intervention, you can contact Dr. Kıymet Boz clinic.

What is PRP?

PRP treatment is a method in which a blood sample taken from the patient is injected back into the body after platelet support is added by a specialist. Platelet is a vital substance that helps to organize reactions that have an important place in the circulatory system. Platelets are responsible for stopping bleeding and repairing wounds. In other words, they take part in tissue repair.

PRP is the process by which a specialist increases the rate of platelets in the blood and delivers it intravenously to the area targeted for healing. In addition to medical interventions, it is also applied to clients who apply to the clinic with aesthetic concerns.

The blood you receive through PRP, with an increased percentage of platelets, increases the number of reparative cells in your body. Thus, your natural healing process is significantly supported and accelerated. It is also known to be functional in many different areas related to cell renewal such as hair loss and skin wrinkles.

How is PRP Treatment Applied?

PRP treatment application includes some steps. These steps must be performed by a specialist knowledgeable in the field. The answer to the question “How is PRP done?” consists of the following steps:

Blood is taken from the patient. This is the same as when you donate blood or have it tested. There are no extra steps. Usually one or several tubes are needed.

The blood is centrifuged. Here, platelets and other substances in the blood are separated from each other by the principle of sedimentation.

Certain processes are applied to prevent blood clotting and increase the concentration of platelets.

The blood with increased platelet levels is ready to be injected into the patient. The target is 2 to 8 times higher than normal platelet levels.

Once the appropriate mixture has been prepared, only a small injection is required. It can be applied directly to the area to be healed or improved. In case of tissue injuries, it can also be injected with the help of an ultrasound. Thus, the PRP needle reaches the targeted area.

Which Conditions Can Be Treated with PRP?

The treatment scale is quite wide. This procedure is often used for chronic injuries caused by sports and exercise. There are dozens of studies proving its effectiveness in tendon injuries. It is also a method used by specialists in the treatment of arthritis, a painful disease.

Its effect on the healing process in leg wounds caused by varicose veins and diabetes, dental implants, mild muscle tissue tears has also been observed in clinics. In other words, PRP treatment is used in every situation where a tissue can contribute to the healing process.

In addition, it is becoming increasingly popular in cosmetic applications. The signs of aging are similar to those of structures that have suffered a blow or damage to the tissues. In both cases, the structures in the body do not perform as well as they used to. For example, wrinkling is caused by the deterioration of elastin fibers and collagen structures and a decrease in their number.

PRP application ensures that these damages underlying wrinkling are repaired. Thus, sagging skin with deep lines achieves a youthful appearance by producing new cells. Reparative factors in platelets support collagen and elastin production. It is also effective in defects such as acne scars and blemishes that do not pass.

PRP benefits are also effective for balding problem. Genetic or environmental weakening in hair follicles is reversed by platelet supplementation. As a result, the strengthened follicles become suitable for producing more hair. Thin strands thicken and new follicles are formed.

What are the Side Effects of PRP Treatment?

As with any medical intervention, PRP also has possible side effects. As it is a relatively new procedure, these effects will become clearer with further research. But because it involves simple steps, serious complications are unlikely to occur. Possible side effects are listed as follows:

• Infection
• Tissue injuries
• Nerve damage

It is very rare for these to occur. Since the procedure is performed with the patient’s own blood, there is no possibility of the body not accepting it or reacting negatively. The fact that the process takes place under the control of a specialist doctor minimizes the risks. Thanks to measures such as the sterility of the application environment, a smooth process is carried out.Those who have PRP treatment are usually very satisfied with the procedure.

What Should Be Considered Before PRP?

In order to avoid any complications in the process, there are some points you should pay attention to beforehand. First of all, you should follow your specialist’s recommendations to the letter. In general, steroid-containing medications should be stopped 3 weeks before the procedure. It is important to discuss this with the doctor who prescribed the medication.

You should stop taking ibuprofen, aspirin and NSIAD one week before the procedure. You should also avoid anticoagulants and any substances that have a blood-thinning effect.

It is recommended that you do not consume alcohol the day before treatment. When you drink plenty of water, eat a sufficient and balanced diet and get a quality sleep; the next day’s procedure will be easier for you.

What should be considered after PRP?

For a few days after the procedure, it is important to be sensitive to the area where the application was made. For 24 hours, it is recommended to avoid heavy exercise and sweating. If possible, exposure to sunlight should be avoided for 10 days.

If the procedure is applied to your face, it is in your best interest to take extra precautions regarding hygiene. Washing your pillowcase and not wearing make-up for a while will speed up the process. If you have pain, you can take painkiller supplements under the supervision of a doctor.

How Long Does PRP Treatment Take?

After the injection is prepared, the procedure takes between 20 – 60 minutes. This time interval may increase in cases where ultrasound is needed. The treatment plan varies according to the individual. Most people need 1 – 3 sessions. There are 4 – 6 weeks between each session. A 4th session is rarely necessary. The path to be followed especially in tissue damage due to trauma may be very different from these average values.

When Does PRP Take Effect?

The effect of the application varies depending on individual factors. In general, visible results are noticed within 6 weeks. The amount of damage in the applied area, your lifestyle, genetic factors are effective in this period.

It is important to be patient during the process. When you consider the natural healing processes, you may realize that your body needs time. Although an increase in platelet count indicates a faster recovery, this does not happen immediately.

How often is PRP performed?

The frequency of treatment should be planned individually. It can be repeated when there is a decrease in the effects in line with the wishes and needs. After your sessions are over, the results will generally last between 6 – 9 months. When the imperfections become visible again, you can consult your specialist and request a new session.

If you are determined to make this procedure a part of your life, you can also go back without waiting for the full effects to wear off. Those who undergo regular PRP treatment benefit from the procedure at an average interval of 5 months.

Who Cannot Receive PRP?

There are some situations where this procedure carries a high risk and cannot be applied. These risk groups are listed as follows:

• Pregnant women
• Those with blood clotting disorders
• Those with platelet dysfunction
• People with cancer

In addition, women who are breastfeeding should always decide to undergo this procedure in consultation with their current doctor. Professional athletes should be aware that this procedure could be considered doping.