Platelet Rich Plasma Archives

Jun 26

How Can I Maximize My PRP Results?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Platelet Rich Plasma

The results of any platelet rich plasma procedure often come in gradually. This is why multiple treatments are needed. But, is there anything patients can do to maximize their PRP results? While there are no guaranteed ways to improve the results, patients can help create the optimal environment for good results and promote the best possible ones. Here are a few answers to the question, “How can I maximize my PRP results?”

#1: Eat Well & Stay Hydrated

PRP treatments rely on the body’s natural healing process. Therefore, making sure to keep the body nourished and healthy will ultimately help promote the best results. In some cases, a high protein diet may help, but it is not necessary. Hydration also helps keep the skin healthy which is vital for most PRP procedures.

#2: Alternate Procedures

Depending on the specific PRP treatment, sometimes alternating the PRP treatment with a non-PRP treatment can help maximize results. For example, starting with PRP microneedling and then getting a chemical peel a few weeks later and so on can provide optimal results.

#3: Protect Treated Area From The Sun

Whether the face or the scalp, it is important to keep the treatment area out of and protected from the sun. This may include wearing hats, applying high SPF sunscreen, and avoiding activities that would involve a high amount of sun exposure.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112 or reach out via chat or contact form.

May 08

Is PRP Better Than Botox?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Platelet Rich Plasma, PRP Injections

Platelet rich plasma and Botox injections both serve as possible cosmetic injection options. They can often complement each other and patients may be interested in understanding what exactly each does to determine which may best work for them. Let’s look at the commonly asked question, “Is PRP better than Botox?”

The answer to this question is not as straightforward as yes or no. The reason for this is that they generally serve different purposes. Botox targets facial muscles to help reduce dynamic wrinkles on the skin. PRP acts similarly to filler. When injected, it helps stimulate a collagen response to naturally fill in and disguise wrinkles.

PRP may provide some semblance of permanent results while Botox may help permanently reduce wrinkles with regular use. Therefore, one is not really better than the other. If wanting to address static wrinkles and skin quality, platelet rich plasma is likely the best treatment. However, if you want to reduce wrinkles in the long term and dynamic wrinkles like frown lines, Botox is likely the best choice.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112. You can also reach out online via chat or contact form.

May 01

Is Too Much PRP Bad For Hair?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Hair Restoration, Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet rich plasma is a substance derived directly from a patient’s blood. Therefore, when applied topically or injected, it is unlikely to cause any problems. While it may not offer negative effects, the worst that happens is that it simply does not work. However, this can make patients ask, “Is too much PRP bad for hair?”

Generally, when undergoing PRP hair restoration, a patient undergoes multiple sessions spaced about four to six weeks apart. The number of sessions varies. Now, the PRP itself is unlikely to be bad for hair growth. However, if the injection sessions are performed too close together, this could potentially hinder healing and hair growth.

It is important to let the scalp fully heal between sessions. The PRP helps the hair follicles heal the damage caused by hormones. Thus, if any hindrance to hair growth occurs, it may be due to sessions performed too close together rather than the platelet rich plasma.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112. You can also reach out online via chat or contact form.

Apr 24

How Long After Microneedling With PRP Can I Wash My Face?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Platelet Rich Plasma, PRP Skin Care

Microneedling with PRP is a procedure that makes tiny punctures on the surface of the skin to stimulate a collagen response. Thus, the face is often red and patients will need to alter their normal skincare routine to avoid irritation. A common question is, “How long after microneedling with PRP can I wash my face?”

Generally, it is best to skip washing your face on the day of treatment. By the next day, it is usually fine to resume washing your face. However, make sure to use a gentle cleanser and avoid cleansing too much. Avoid other forms of exfoliation for at least a week. Moisturizer is usually fine to continue once you cleanse, but harsh serums, retinol, and toner will need to be discontinued for around one to two weeks.

Your master esthetician will provide instructions based on your specific skin and procedure. They can also make recommendations on the type of cleanser to use and any other products that are safe to use.

Microneedling with PRP is a fantastic procedure to help reduce the signs of aging and treat skin conditions such as acne scars and sun damage. To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112. You can also reach out online via chat or contact form.

Apr 17

Can PRP Injections Cause Blood Clots?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Platelet Rich Fibrin, Platelet Rich Plasma, PRP Injections

Platelet rich plasma’s job within the blood is to help it clot at the site of an injury. Therefore, as a clotting agent, this can make some patients a little hesitant about injecting it into their body. Let’s look at the question, “Can PRP injections cause blood clots?”

The risk of PRP injections causing blood clots is astronomically low. Just like any typical injection, the chances of platelet rich plasma causing any issues with the actual function of your blood is unlikely. Additionally, with traditional PRP injections, an anti-coagulant is added to the PRP to prevent any unwanted or unnecessary clotting.

PRF—another derivative of PRP—does not contain an anti-coagulant. There usually is a visible clot within the PRF. This does mean it comes with a very slightly elevated risk of blood clots than when compared with PRP. However, this is exceptionally rare. If a patient is prone to blood clots or has certain blood diseases, they will want to report this to their provider so a proper treatment plan can be devised.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112 or reach out online via chat or contact form.

Apr 10

How Effective Are PRP Injections?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Platelet Rich Plasma, PRP Injections

Platelet rich plasma injections within the cosmetic industry are most commonly used to help restore hair. Before seeking non-surgical hair restoration services, many patients have never heard of PRP. Thus, a common question that patients ask is, “How effective are PRP injections?”

When treating genetic hair loss, PRP is anywhere between 70% and 90% effective. However, the exact efficacy can depend on the specific patient. For example, this efficacy is based on younger men who have noticeable hair loss, but not usually not advanced hair loss. The platelet rich plasma injections help slow the progression of hair loss. It cannot fully replace a hair transplant surgery, simply prolong it.

Additionally, the efficacy of PRP hair restoration also depends on the cause of hair loss. Physical causes of hair loss such as injuries likely will not benefit from PRP treatment. Though, sometimes PRP injections can help accelerate the natural hair growth process if and when it begins growing back.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112. You can also reach out online via chat or contact form.

Apr 03

Can I Comb My Hair After PRP?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Hair Restoration, Platelet Rich Plasma

PRP hair restoration does not come with as many restrictions as a hair transplant surgery. However, patients will need to follow some instructions to promote the best possible results. A common question asked by patients who undergo PRP hair treatment is, “Can I comb my hair after PRP?”

On the day of the procedure, do not comb or touch the hair. After 24 hours, patients may lightly comb their hair, but should not use pressure and keep the comb from touching the scalp. After a few days, patients can return to their full hair care routine including showering, combing, and styling.

While there are no hair grafts to dislodge, there are a few reasons patients need to refrain from combing their hair after PRP hair restoration. First, the scalp may feel tight and irritated. Combing can worsen this and be generally uncomfortable for patients. Second, the patients want to use caution not to damage the scalp in any way as this can hinder the process. Finally, even if combing does not cause an adverse effect, it is better to use an abundance of caution.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112 or reach out online via chat or contact form.

Mar 20

A Photo For A Blog Post About Lesser Known Cosmetic Uses Of PRP

3 Lesser Known Cosmetic Uses Of PRP

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet rich plasma has been used in the medical field for decades. Cosmetic uses of PRP—while newer—are a much more recent innovation. Due to this, there are only a few applications that are widely known, the most well known being PRP hair restoration. However, there are many other possible uses of PRP that many people have no idea may actually help them. Here are 3 lesser known cosmetic uses of PRP.

#1: Acne Scars

Acne scars are notoriously difficult to treat. For some larger scars, dermal fillers can help temporarily, but for smaller pitted acne scars, patients often have no choice but to try various procedures to find one that provides results. Microneedling with PRP is a great option for treating acne scars. However, PRP can also be injected into the scars themselves to help stimulate a collagen response which is the most effective way to treat acne scars.

#2: Fill In Wrinkles

Platelet rich plasma is not like dermal fillers that immediately show a difference in the area. PRP does not do this, but it can provide longer lasting results. With repeated treatments a few weeks apart, PRP can stimulate enough collagen to help fill in wrinkles such as the nasolabial folds or marionette lines.

#3: Plumping

With the last use in mind, PRP can also be used to plump areas, particularly the under eyes and cheeks. However, this will not be as dramatic as dermal fillers can achieve. Thus, if a patient is looking for immediate and dramatic results, PRP is likely not the right treatment (or should be used in conjunction with filler).

To learn more about what PRP can achieve and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112. You can also reach out online via chat or contact form.

Mar 13

Why Am I Losing Hair After PRP?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Hair Restoration, Platelet Rich Plasma

After undergoing a platelet rich plasma hair restoration session, patients sometimes become concerned when they see continued hair loss. This can make them worry the treatment is not working or that something went wrong. Normally, this is not the case. Let’s look further into the question, “Why am I losing hair after PRP?”

Platelet rich plasma is a slow and progressive treatment. This means that it works overtime to prevent and restore hair loss. After one sessions, you likely will not see much of a difference. Many patient begin noticing a difference after their second or third PRP session. The platelet rich plasma stays active for about four to six weeks which is why each session is spaced roughly that far apart.

Additionally, sometimes PRP injections can stimulate already dead hairs to fall out. Often, these hairs were already going to fall out and the PRP cannot restore it without emptying the follicle and repairing it. It is sometimes simply part of the process. Eventually, patients may see their hair loss slowing and restoration of some hair in the treatment areas.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112. You can also reach out online via chat or contact form.

Mar 06

What Are The Side Effects Of RF Microneedling With PRP?

By Dr. Craig Jonov | Platelet Rich Plasma, PRP Skin Care

RF microneedling with PRP is a procedure that combines the physical and biological stimulation of collagen production. Microneedling uses tiny needle pricks to instigate a collagen response. PRP then boosts this response with its presence in the area. This makes it one of the most effective professional skin treatments out there. Let’s look at the question, “What are the side effects of RF microneedling with PRP?

Microneedling with PRP—whether with or without radiofrequency—can come with some minor side effects. Immediately following the procedure, the skin may appear red and feel tight or extra sensitive. This is normal and your master esthetician will apply products to help soothe and protect the skin.

In the coming days, a small amount of soreness and swelling may occur. However, bruising and major swelling are rare. Peeling is uncommon, but not often a cause for concern. Side effects of RF microneedling with PRP should subside in a week or less. Full results of the procedure are expected in about two weeks.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-279-2112. You can also reach out online via chat or contact form.