PRF & PRP Injections in Baltimore, MD
REGENERATIVE MEDICINE IN BALTIMORE, MD
For many years, the medical community has been aware of the body’s natural regenerative qualities. Certain fields of medicine including orthopedics, dentistry, and sports medicine, have implemented protocols that work synergistically with the body by using platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The use of PRP is common for promoting joint recovery and managing degenerative disease. It was only a matter of time before science discovered the value that PRP held for the body’s largest organ: the skin.
We are pleased to offer PRP treatments to help our patients address signs of aging.
What is PRP?
PRP is an organic substance that has long been advocated for its ability to facilitate tissue regeneration and wound healing. The substance exists in the blood, which makes it safe and convenient. PRP is obtained through a simple blood draw and centrifuge (spinning) process. Centrifugation of the blood separates nutrient-rich platelets from red blood cells and other product.
Platelets are valuable because they contain a large number of growth factors. These include epithelial and vascular epithelial growth factors as well as fibroblast and connective tissue growth factors. Each type of growth promotes vital processes such as inflammatory response, blood vessel regeneration, tissue remodeling, and cell turnover.
What is PRF?
PRF or Platelet Rich Fibrin is similar to PRP except the release of growth factors is more pronounced with PRF injections. Some providers have switched to PRF due to more desirable results.
How does PRP work for aesthetic rejuvenation?
Platelet-rich plasma is used in two ways to improve the appearance and overall vitality of the skin. The product may be injected beneath wrinkles, hollows, and areas of deflation and it may also be applied topically in a gentle microneedling procedure.
The way that PRP improves texture, volume, and radiance is by inducing numerous regenerative processes. The various growth factors that exist within blood plasma provide essential proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and other nutrients to the skin. Proteins are integral to the formation of fibrin polymer which lays a strong foundation for firm, youthful tissue. Platelets within the plasma naturally respond to injuries in the body, prompting accelerated tissue regeneration through vascular and cellular regrowth.
How long do PRP injections take?
PRP treatment with injections and microneedling takes about 45 minutes. First we cleanse, dermaplane, and numb the skin. Then we complete a standard blood draw, which takes just a few minutes. The provider carefully observes the face and may mark areas where injections are recommended. Microneedling is completed first and then injections are placed immediatley after.
What happens after the PRP procedure?
Patients should wait 72 hours to apply make up, working out, or sweating following their PRP procedure. Slight redness and swelling should be expected. Some patients notice minor bruising. These side effects typically disappear within 72 hours after treatment.
How long will it take to see results?
Patients who undergo microneedling with PRP may notice an immediate boost in the radiance and softness of their skin. PRP injections work beneath the surface to restructure the collagen matrix in superficial tissue, so results from injections alone become more noticeable after a few weeks.
As healing mechanisms increase, patients notice improvements such as:
Smoother texture due to improved collagen formation.
More radiance due to new blood vessel formation.
Fresher, younger-looking skin due to the influx of vital nutrients.
What are the advantages of PRP vs. other injectables?
Studies have indicated that patients treated with platelet-rich plasma facials find that their results continue to improve over time. Several months after treatment, the effects of cellular regeneration may be even more noticeable than they are right after microneedling or injections. This is because plasma stimulates cellular activity in which collagen and elastin are remodeled.
From research, we can recognize that PRP progressively improves the skin while other injectables gradually degrade as the body metabolizes the foreign substance. The results of PRP treatments may continue to improve for more than a year, providing results that last up to two years or more. Furthermore, research suggests that the cellular stimulation achieved with annual PRP treatments could offset the natural degenerative aging process.
What risks are associated with PRP?
PRP treatments, even when performed for aesthetic purposes, fall into the category of regenerative medicine. The growth factors and nutrients within platelet-rich plasma literally stimulate cellular regeneration wherever the organic product is introduced. PRP supports the body’s natural healing mechanisms and does not include any foreign substances or chemicals. Therefore, there is virtually no risk of allergic reaction to the product.
An important note about PRP injections and microneedling treatment: patients should obtain care from a trained professional. While the risk of prolonged swelling and infection are very low, the manner in which treatment is performed can affect outcome. Our team has been educated in the safe, effective and comfortable performance of PRP treatments.