The use of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is not new. It has long been recognised for its accelerated wound healing properties in such applications as surgery and sports injuries. This technology is now being used for cosmetic enhancement with excellent results.
In addition, we have developed, at our Clinic, the use of PRF- Platelet Rich Fibrin-which, we believe, is superior to PRP. A comparison between the two treatments would be:
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) are both blood-based treatments that use platelets to stimulate healing, but there are several differences between the two:
- Extraction: PRP uses additives to thin the blood, while PRF is extracted without additives and, therefore, a more natural product.
- Spinning: PRP is spun at a higher speed than PRF, which separates the plasma layer. PRF is spun at a lower speed, which leaves some white blood cells and fibrin in the platelet layer.
- Platelet concentration: PRF has a higher concentration of platelets than PRP.
- Anticoagulants: PRP uses an anticoagulant to prevent blood clotting, while PRF does not.
- Growth factor release: PRP releases growth factors for a few hours, while PRF releases them for up to a week.
- Treatment duration: PRP therapy typically lasts a few weeks, while PRF therapy may last several months.
- PRP is typically used as a facial or microneedling treatment, while PRF is used like a filler.
- PRF has been found to be most effective in hair loss treatments, under eye therapies and general skin rejuvenation.
- Cost: PRF treatments are more expensive than PRP treatments.
PRF is an enhanced version of PRP that incorporates fibrinogens and proteins that transform into fibrin during clotting. The fibrin in PRF provides support for new cell growth.
At Wellington Cosmetic Clinic, we have moved to exclusively utilising the PRF technology and stipulate that a full clinical consultation is required prior to any treatment, where our clinicians will take the time to fully explain all aspect of the treatment protocols including any additives that might, either be necessary or optional to the collected serum.
HAIR LOSS/REGENERATIVE TREATMENTS
These treatments are offered at the clinic, only after an extensive clinical consultation, to determine suitability and a written consent process. An outline of treatment is:
- Collection of PRF- 2 Vials, where possible.
- Addition of Peptides and vitamins, designed to stimulate hair growth by improving scalp circulation and nourishing hair follicles.
- Addition of local anaesthetic, if requested by the patient.