Platelet Rich Plasma

A fraction of blood (5-20ml) is drawn up from the client into a vacuum sealed tube. This is a relatively small amount compared to blood donation which can remove 500ml. The blood is spun in a special centrifuge to separate its components (Red Blood Cells, Platelet Rich Plasma, Platelet Poor Plasma and Buffy Coat).

Once spun for adequate time within the centrifuge, the blood components should have separated. See diagram above. We look to extract the platelet rich plasma from the tube.

To give you an idea, in a tube of 10ml blood, we will be able to extract roughly 2ml of PRP. This is what is injected into the treatment area.

When PRP is injected into the treatment area it causes a mild inflammation that triggers the healing process. As the platelets organize in the treatment area, they release several enzymes to promote healing and tissue responses including attracting stem cells and growth factors to repair the damaged area.

As a result, new collagen begins to develop. As the collagen matures it begins to shrink causing the tightening and strengthening of the damaged area. When treating injured, aged, or damaged tissue, this can induce a remodelling of the tissue to a healthier and younger state.

The full procedure takes approximately 45minutes to an hour.

Generally, 2-3 treatments are advised; however, more may be necessary for some individuals. Each treatment should be 4-6 weeks apart, or, until the treatment area has fully healed if taking longer than 4-6 weeks.