What is PRP?
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is concentrated blood plasma which contains approximately three to five times the number of platelets found in normal circulating blood. In addition, it contains platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor (TGF) and other bioactive proteins that aid in wound healing and possibly hair growth.
Growth factors in platelet rich plasma (PRP) have been used to facilitate wound healing. Recently, studies have suggested that PRP may also serve as a safe and effective treatment option for male and female pattern hair loss.
If PRP hair loss therapy is appropriate, we can begin your treatment at the time of your consultation.
PRP for Hair Loss
The Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) commonly used in hair restoration is “autologous,” meaning that it is derived from the patient’s own blood. To obtain PRP, a patient’s blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the solid from liquid components and platelet activators, such as thrombin, calcium chloride and sometimes collagen, are added. The separated “solid” portion of the blood is PRP (platelet rich plasma).
PRP is then placed into a syringe and reintroduced into the area of hair loss.
The area of treatment will numbed using local anesthesia prior to PRP injections
The treatments must be continued periodically to maintain any improvement. We recommend coming every 4-6 weeks for your treatment.
Patients with thinning, but not totally bald, areas would be the best candidates.
PRP therapy for hair loss will be used in conjunction with Rogaine for optimal results
Summary
PRP for hair loss is a relatively new treatment with a limited number of scientific studies to show its efficacy. The long-term benefits of PRP treatments for hair loss are not yet known. All patients receiving PRP treatments at Bernstein Medical are followed closely to determine effectiveness and if other therapeutic modalities may be needed.