PRP- Platelet Rich Plasma

The Youth Elixir

-          Platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) is the yellow “goo” that surrounds a scab, this goo is what aids new skin to grow. The PRFM activates multipotent stem cells, cells that act like seeds that when activated will grow all parts of the skin: collagen, fat, blood vessels, and even nerve supply.

-          Multiple studies have shown that when you inject PFRM into the skin, new skin develops from the growth of multipotent stem cells.

-          Growth factors released by platelets that are a part of the PRFM include the following

1.      IGF (insulin- like growth factor)- cell growth and improved immunity

2.      PD-EGF (platelet-derived epidermal growth factor)- cell growth

3.      PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor)- cell growth

4.      TGF (transforming growth factor)- new blood vessels

5.      VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)- new blood vessels

6.      ECGF (endothelial cell growth)- new blood vessels

7.      bFGF (basic fibroblast growth factor)- new collagen

-          The yellow goo, the PRFM- becomes a healing elixir/balm with amazing natural fertilizers that stimulate local multipotent stem cells to grow and repair damaged tissue (cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and angiogenesis)

-          By using your own blood to isolate this same magic elixir, PFRM, the physician can create the same magic and apply it to your undamaged face to help you grow a more beautiful and more youthful appearance

The Steps to Making the Magic Elixir- PFRM

1.      Phlebotomy- the doctor draws about a tablespoon full of blood from your arm. A numbing cream can be applied to decrease the pain.

2.      The doctor must isolate the platelets that will turn the water in the blood (plasma) into PRFM. The most effective way to do this is with a centrifuge; a device that spins the blood at a high rate to separate different components out by weight, heavier will end up on bottom. The small, lighter platelets separate and form at the top of the tube and the heavier blood remains at the bottom. The platelets plus the plasma that was separated out is known as PRP.

3.      The platelet rich plasma, PRP- the water from the blood and platelets that contain the fertilizer/growth factors, are then removed from the tube and ready for use.