PRP injections, also called Liquid Gold, have been growing in popularity mainly due to their ability to promote healing. They have been used to treat a variety of conditions such as sport’s injuries, hair loss, and they are also loved in the cosmetic industry as an anti-aging treatment.
What are PRP Injections?
PRP stands for Platelet-rich Plasma and it consists of two elements: the liquid portion of the blood, which is the plasma, and platelets; a blood cell that promotes healing. Platelets are known for their blood-clotting abilities but they also contain proteins that support cell growth and stimulate tissue regeneration or healing in the treated area. Platelet-rich plasma is the blood that has a higher count of platelet than normal.
PRP is created by drawing a blood sample from the individual undergoing the procedure, placing it into a centrifuge which spins it at great speed separating the platelets from the other blood components and concentrating them within the plasma.
After obtaining the PRP from the person’s blood sample, it is injected into the target area. Injecting the PRP solution into the treatment area increases the concentration of specific hormones or bio proteins, called growth factors in a specific area to accelerate the rate of healing. One of these growth factors is collagen which is crucial in antiaging treatments.
Purposes of PRP Injections
PRP injections can be used for a wide range of treatments including:
- Antiaging treatments. One of the most popular anti-aging treatments that use PRP is the vampire facial. This involves injecting PRP directly into the skin to stimulate collagen production which firms, glows, and rejuvenates the skin resulting in younger-looking you. PRP can also be combined with other anti-aging and skin rejuvenation procedures such as radiofrequency micro-needling, microdermabrasion, or resurfacing laser to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and also to improve the skin texture.
- Hair loss. PRP is used in most hair loss treatments. It is injected into the scalp to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. It is an effective treatment in treating androgenic alopecia.
- Acute injuries. PRP injections are used to treat acute sports injuries such as knee sprains or pulled hamstring muscles.
- Tendon injuries. Chronic tendon injections can be treated with PRP injections. Tendons are thick tough bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone and they usually take a long time to heal after an injury. However, PRP injections can speed up the rate of healing.
- Post-surgical repair. PRP injections are used to accelerate healing after Plastic Surgery and other surgical procedures such as torn tendon repair and ligaments.
Preparing for PRP injections
Preparing for PRP injections depends on how you are receiving the treatment. There are different ways in which PRP can be injected such as applying a topical numbing lidocaine solution on the treatment area before the injection.
Other scenarios involve mixing a local anesthetic with PRP to reduce discomfort or applying/injecting PRP during surgery or another procedure. Your provider will give you the exact details on how to prepare for the PRP injections depending on your treatment.
Process of PRP Injection
The PRP injection process involves your provider drawing a sample of your blood and the amount depends on the purpose of the injection.
The drawn blood is placed in a centrifuge and rapidly spun around causing the blood components to separate. The separated plasma is prepared for injection into the treatment area and lastly injected.
Results & Recovery
Recovery from PRP injections depends on what it was used to treat. Your provider may recommend that you rest the affected area for some time but in most cases, individuals resume their normal activities immediately after the PRP injections.
You may notice an immediate difference after receiving the PRP injections. This is because PRP is meant to promote growth or healing. However, faster healing or growth will be more visible after several weeks.
Side Effects of PRP
PRP is a low-risk procedure and there are typically no major side effects or complications associated with it especially when it is being done by a Board-Certified or licensed provider.
PRP is autologous, meaning the substances used are coming directly from your body. This means the risk of allergic reaction is much lower than when other types of injectables such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid are used.
The less common risks associated with PRP injections include soreness, bruising, swelling, bleeding, infection, tissue damage, and nerve injuries.
This is why it is important to always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before receiving the PRP injections.
To Know More
Would you like to understand what options are available for PRP Injections in Dubai? Meet one of our experts at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery for a personal consultation to develop a tailor-made plan for you. Contact us or book an appointment and our patient care coordinators will identify the most suitable expert for you.