PRP - PRF

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is the second generation, new and improved version of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Our bodies have amazing healing and regenerative properties, and PRF seeks to take advantage of these. When used in aesthetics, it is an all natural way to reverse visible signs of aging. The only meaningful difference between PRP and PRF is the tubes used to collect them. PRP utilizes tubes with anticoagulants, whereas PRF tubes have no chemical additives. 

The first step in our body’s healing process is the formation of a fibrin clot matrix, followed by the recruitment of growth factors to help form new blood vessels, new cells, new collagen, and overall new healthy tissue. The human body naturally produces certain proteins and growth factors to heal itself when necessary. Plasma filler consists of a new technology that uses your own blood to produce a unique concentration of volumizing proteins and rejuvenating growth factors, naturally stimulating and maximizing the regenerative process of diverse cell types and tissues. It is obtained by mixing the growth factors of liquid PRF and the albumin of plasma. 

PRF and EZ-Gel are extremely versatile. They can be used for volume enhancement and symmetry adjustment, as well as skin rejuvenation. Common treatment areas in the face include under eye hollows, crow’s feet, nasolabial folds, cheeks, marionette lines, smoker lines, chin, jawline, and lips.

PRF and EZ-Gel stimulates the tissue, causing mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade. As a result, new collagen begins to develop. As this collagen matures, it begins to shrink, tighten, and strengthen the skin. 

Platelet-rich Fibrin is derived from whole blood. During your visit, a small amount of blood is drawn from the patient, similar to a basic lab test. The patient’s blood is then placed into a centrifuge. During the centrifugation process, the red blood cells, white blood cells, and other inflammatory cytokines are separated from plasma, which contains platelets along with several platelet derived growth factors. Once the platelet-rich fibrin is separated, it is drawn up into a syringe and injected into the desired treatment area, similar to dermal filler.

EZ-Gel is obtained by mixing the growth factors of liquid EZ-PRF and the albumin of your own plasma. This is achieved by the centrifugation and heating process of a whole blood sample without chemicals or modifications. EZ-Gel provides innovative, flexible consistency allowing the gel’s viscosity to adapt to the various areas of treatment. 

PRF and EZ-Gel use your own body's regenerative properties to produce collagen naturally. This is considered one of the safest and most natural procedures in cosmetic injecatables. Side effects, such as redness, bruising, tenderness and injection site pain are mild and temporary, are generally injection related.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E and alcohol for 7 days before treatment.
• You may wish to use over-the-counter naturopathic treatments such as arnica to prevent bruising.
• If you develop a fever, cold I flu, or develop a cold sore, blemish, or rash, etc. in the area to be treated prior to your appointment, you must reschedule.

THE DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT

• If possible, arrive without creams or make-up on the treatment area. Topical numbing cream will be applied to treatment area, please arrive 15-30 minutes early. Cleansing products are available for your convenience.
• Your blood will be taken and spun down to prepare for injection.
• Pre-treatment photos will be taken.
• The treatment areas will be wiped with alcohol.

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Do not apply pressure to or massage the treatment area.
• Pinpoint bleeding may occur and will resolve quickly.
• Any immediate redness will subside within an hour and may be covered with makeup.
• Patients may develop mild bruising and or sensitivity around the injection site. This will resolve within 3-5 days after treatment. Apply cold compresses as desired.
• For optimal results and to restore collagen loss, we recommend the PCA Skin products or the SkinCeuticals products.

The injection sites may be tender and appear puffy for up to 3-5 days.

The initial swelling will subside after 1-2 weeks. The injections will build natural collagen fiber networks over the next several months. Multiple treatments may be needed to achieve the desired outcome. Typically 2-3 treatments, 4-6 weeks apart yield optimal results. Repeat treatment may be needed every 4-6 months

You should not have PRP/PRF treatments done if you have any of the following conditions: skin cancer, systemic cancer, chemotherapy, steroid therapy, dermatological diseases affecting the face (i.e. Porphyria), blood disorders and platelet abnormalities, or anticoagulation therapy (i.e. Warfarin). Advise your treatment provider if you suffer from, or suspect you suffer from, any of the following conditions: platelet dysfunction syndrome, critical thrombocytopenia, hypofibrinogen anemia, hemodynamic instability, sepsis, chronic liver disease, hepatitis or any acute or chronic infections. 

Results are not immediate and any immediate effects are temporary. The results gradually improve over several months as collagen growth is enhanced and sustained.

There are many ways PRF is used in aesthetics. It may be used as a liquid-injected directly into fine lines, wrinkles and other problem areas, microneedled into skin, or mixed with other products such as Radiesse or Sculptra.