PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a natural treatment used to improve skin texture, elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles. PRP works with your own body’s natural healing process to repair and rejuvenate tissue. The treatment involves harvesting platelets from your own blood. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge to spin down and separate the red blood cells from the platelet rich plasma. The platelets are then re-injected to the desired areas requiring improvement. The PRP contains a high content of growth factor proteins that help to heal and rejuvenate the areas that are treated. This treatment is often combined with micro-needling for optimal collagen formation.

What will PRP treat?

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is ideal for:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne Scarring and skin texture
  • Dull or dry skin
  • Hair growth stimulation for those with thinning hair
  • Surgical Scars
  • Stretch Marks
  • To stimulate collagen production
  • To produce a more radiant appearance

At Toronto Plastic Surgery, we use the Harvest™ Smart Prep double-spin processing system in order to deliver the highest concentration and yield of platelets.

Where do you inject the PRP and how does it work?

PRP can be injected in to your face, neck, eye area, backs of hands and décolletage. Other areas that can be treated include the knees, upper arms and tummy.

The entire process can take up to an hour. The areas to be treated are numbed with a topical anaesthetic. To start the procedure, a small amount of blood is taken, and then placed into a centrifuge, where the blood is spun down to separate the red blood cells from the platelet rich plasma. Rich in stem cells, the plasma is then injected into the desired area.

Once injected, the platelets release their growth factors. These factors stimulate the fibroblast cell to create collagen which in turn promotes tissue rejuvenation.

How many treatments will I need?

PRP Facial rejuvenation can be a one-time treatment, however optimal results are achieved with a series of three treatments spaced every 6 to 8 weeks followed by one maintenance treatment every 9-12 months.

Are there any side effects?

PRP is a safe treatment. Since we are using your own blood, there is no chance of an allergic reaction. Swelling and redness of the treated areas is quite common. It is possible to experience some tenderness at the injection sites. Bruising in areas is to be expected but can be covered with make-up after the initial 24 hours.

Expectations and after care for PRP

You can expect to have some swelling and bruising. This will subside over 4 to 7 days after the treatment. We do have excellent home care products that will aid in the recovery. The use of cold compresses to treat swelling is recommended.

Treatment plan that offers combination of modalities

PRP can be combined with other rejuvenating procedures such as Hydrafacial, dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, and Microneedling as an adjunct to enhance your results.

The benefits of PRP treatment will be greatly enhanced by adopting a good skin care regimen.

Who should not have this treatment?

The treatment is not recommended for people with platelet or clotting disorders. You should not undergo any elective procedure if you are pregnant. People who are active smokers are encouraged to quit smoking in order to optimize the improvement in skin quality.

How long will results last?

Benefits from PRP are long-lasting due to the direct effects on the structure of the skin. Please keep in mind that we do continue to age so maintenance once a year with PRP is recommended.

Related Resources