Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

It is important to note that this procedure eliminates the potential risk of disease transmission associated with the use of donor blood. Its proven benefits in tissue regeneration have also led to its application in other medical fields, such as ulcer treatment and maxillofacial surgery.

Platelet-Rich Plasma involves drawing a small blood sample from the patient, which is then centrifuged to separate its components. The plasma is extracted and may be combined with other products or medications to enhance its effect before being applied to the patient’s skin. Although it is a very safe procedure, there remains a minimal risk of sample contamination.
Today, there are other substances with the advantage of being sterile and producing highly effective results—known as bio-stimulators. According to Dr. Juan Carlos Lloreda, these alternatives are often preferable to the well-known Platelet-Rich Plasma treatment.

The most recognized bio-stimulators on the market include Radiesse, HarmonyCA, Exosomes, Sunekos, Sculptra, and recombinant enzymes. These products promote facial rejuvenation, improve skin firmness on the face and body, enhance hydration, and help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks, among other benefits.

Benefits

Platelet-Rich Plasma promotes skin rejuvenation and can be used to reduce wrinkles and expression lines. It improves the skin’s appearance and firmness by stimulating collagen and elastin production, increasing thickness, and enhancing overall texture. It is effective for the face, neck, décolletage, and hands. In addition, it can be beneficial in cases of inflammation and mild burns.

Duration

Approximately one year, although this may vary depending on the patient’s individual characteristics and lifestyle habits.

Application process

The application process for Platelet-Rich Plasma includes the following steps:

• Blood extraction: a small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn.
• Centrifugation: the blood is centrifuged to separate the platelet-rich plasma from other blood components. This phase is performed using digital equipment under professional supervision to achieve the highest platelet concentration per unit of volume, without damaging the cells and maintaining precise time and speed parameters. It is important to note that any deviation from standardized centrifugation conditions can cause structural damage to the blood cells.
• Application: the plasma is administered to the targeted area through microinjections.

It is recommended to perform the procedure immediately after the plasma has been extracted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contraindications

Regarding contraindications, Platelet-Rich Plasma is not recommended for patients with:

• Blood clotting problems
• Skin cancer
• Active infections in the treatment area.
• Pregnancy
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
• Active rheumatologic disease.

As for the side effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma, they are minimal since the patient’s own blood is used. However, some may experience:

• Redness and mild discomfort at the injection site.
• Risk of local infection (very rare).

Recommendations

After Platelet-Rich Plasma treatment, patients should avoid direct sun exposure, exercise, or visiting humid environments during the first 24 hours. They should also avoid rubbing or massaging the skin; after washing the face, it should be gently patted dry. Cleansing products and creams must be free of alcohol or irritating ingredients. Applying ice can help reduce swelling, and the use of anti-inflammatory medications is not recommended.

References

Beca T, Hernández G, Morante S, Bascones A. Plasma rico en plaquetas. Una revisión bibliográfica. Av Periodon Implantol. 2007; 19, 1: 39-52.

E. Conde Montero, M.E. Fernández Santos, R. Suárez Fernández, Plasma rico en plaquetas: aplicaciones en dermatología. Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas, Volume 106, Issue 2, 2015.

Enrique J. Moya Rosa I; Dra. Yadira Moya Corrales, Bioestimulación facial con plasma rico en plaquetas, Revista Archivo Médico de Camagüey , AMC vol.19 no.2 Camagüey mar.-abr. 2015.