Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Aesthetic Purposes.
The most important function of the cells in the blood that we call the ‘platelets’ is to stop a bleeding. In addition, it is also the natural source of the growth factors. The agrowth factors stored in granules of platelets are; platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDAF), and transforming growth factor (TGF-Beta)b.
These growth factors play a key role in wound healing and tissue regeneration. These features of platelets suggested that they can be used in cases where wound healing function is impaired or tissue regeneration has decreased. Since 1987, platelet-enriched plasma prepared from a person’s own blood by centrifugal methods has been used in many applications such as open heart surgery, treatment of sports injuries, treatment of refractory fractures in orthopedics, treatment in urology etc. In recent years, it has also begun to be used for aesthetic purposes. With PRP injections, aging process of skin can be slowed down, and a more youthful appearance can be given to aged skin. By this means, wrinkles can be reduced and a more vibrant and youthful appearance can be given to the skin, by utilizing the cells obtained from the own tissues of the person, without using any foreign substance.
In this application, the platelets in blood taken from the patient are separated with a specific centrifuge method, and then are injected to the areas where they are needed. The amount of platelets in the separated blood plasma is about four times much than that in the blood. By means of the growth factors in the injected platelets, the cells called ‘fibroblasts’ are regenerated and they increase in number, which produce elastic and collagen fibers that provide the elasticity and tension of the skin. In applications made within a specific plan, positive changes in the skin become permanent.
PRP procedures are frequently carried out with intent to eliminate wrinkles in the facial area and the dorsum of the hand, eliminate stretch marks in the skin of certain areas, and reduce hair loss; and their areas of usage increase with each passing day. Because the source of the injected material is the patient’s own tissue, it does not pose the risk of any side effects. However, this application is disadvantageous in some skin diseases and cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.