Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)
HARNESSING YOUR REGENERATIVE POTENTIAL
Blood is a remarkable fluid that comprises various components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, stem cells, and platelets. Among these components, platelets play a vital role in the body's healing process. Platelets, small disc-shaped cells with a lifespan of about 7-10 days, contain clotting and growth factors. When activated during the healing process, platelets aggregate and release growth factors, initiating the inflammatory cascade and facilitating tissue repair.
Enhanced Platelet Concentration in PRF
Ordinary blood contains approximately 6% platelets, but Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) boasts a remarkable increase in platelet concentration. Studies have revealed that PRF can contain up to 10 times more platelets than regular blood
The PRF Treatment Process
The PRF preparation process is simple and quick, performed in-office during your appointment. Two to four small tubes of your blood are drawn, which are then immediately placed in a centrifuge for processing. After centrifugation, the platelet-rich fibrin liquid and/or gel is extracted from the top of the test tube. The extracted PRF can be used in this form as either topical, injectable or microneedling treatment or processed into a membrane, depending on your treatment needs. Platelets and stem cells gradually enhance tissue blood flow and collagen production, contributing to overall tissue health.
PRF Offers a Range of Benefits
- Tissue regeneration and rejuvenation
- Neo-Collagenesis (new collagen formation)
- Neo-Vascularization (new blood vessel formation)
- Extracellular Matrix formation
- Eliminates risk of allergic or rejection reactions, as it’s your own elements
- Acts as a biological glue for tissue adhesion, especially in skin flaps, bone grafts, and trauma
Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a versatile treatment with various indications
Dermatology and Aesthetics:
- Skin rejuvenation
- Wrinkle reduction
- Scar improvement
- Acne scar treatment
- Hair restoration and regrowth
- Dark circle reduction around the eyes
- Lip augmentation
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery:
- Dental implant surgeries
- Periodontal (gum) surgeries
- Bone grafting procedures
- Socket preservation after tooth extraction
- Treatment of oral ulcers and lesions
- Sinus lift procedures
- Temporomandibular joint treatment
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery:
- Facelift and facial rejuvenation
- Wound healing in plastic surgery
- Scar revision
Dermatologic Surgery:
- Skin grafting procedures
- Mohs surgery reconstruction
- Wound healing enhancement
PRF risks:
PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin) treatments are generally regarded as safe, minimally invasive, and well-tolerated by the majority of patients. Nevertheless, as is the case with any medical procedure, it's essential for patients to be aware of potential risks and complications before opting for treatment. Here are some of the potential complications or adverse events associated with PRF:
1. Pain, bruising, or swelling at the injection site.
2. Infection at the injection site.
3. Bleeding or the formation of a hematoma.
4. Unsatisfactory results or asymmetry.
5. Nerve damage or injury.
6. Changes in skin color or texture.
7. In rare cases, embolism or the blockage of a blood vessel.
Immediate Results and Duration
As PRF works by encouranging regeneration of your own collages and other skin components, it will take 4-6 weeks to build it up. Although, some immediate improvement can be seen, which is due to fluid volume injection and the short acting mediators. The power of PRF treatment is in optimizing your skin’s ability to regenerate and maintain itself. Depending on the initial condition, multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve more noticeable results. It is important to note that repeated PRF treatements have additive benefit, as continuing to improve condition that was already improved has potential to yield better outcomes with time. The longevity of results depends on proper skincare and maintenance, as the collagen generated through PRF treatment can last a lifetime.
Post-Treatment Expectations and Side Effects
Common side effects of PRF injections include redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site. These side effects typically resolve within a few days. Since PRF is prepared from a patient's own blood, there is no risk of allergies or other adverse effects.
Contraindications to PRF
- Active cancer or metastatic disease
- Active infections
- Low platelet count
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Blood disorders
- Patients on anticoagulative therapy
For optimal results, it's essential to follow these guidelines before and after PRF treatment
Before:
- Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, Naproxen, Aspirin, etc.) for 5 days before the procedure.
- Avoid specific nutritional supplements (e.g., Ginko Biloba, Garlic, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Flax Oil, Curcumin) for 5 days before the procedure.
- Refrain from systemic corticosteroids for 1 week before the procedure.
- Abstain from alcohol and cigarettes for 5 days before the procedure.
- Stay well-hydrated for three days before and on the day of the procedure.
After:
- Continue to avoid NSAIDs for 5 days after the procedure.
- Refrain from specific nutritional supplements for 5 days after the procedure.
- Avoid systemic corticosteroids for 2 weeks after the procedure.
- Abstain from alcohol and cigarettes for 5 days after the procedure.
- Maintain a healthy diet and ensure adequate hydration (at least 64 ounces of clean, fresh water).
- Attend a 4-week follow-up appointment for further instructions and intervention if necessary