PRP/ PRFM Facial Rejuvenation
How Do PRP and PRFM Treatment Work?
PRP and PRFM therapy is a treatment that involves withdrawing a patient's own blood, processing it so that only the enriched cells (platelet-rich fibrin matrix) remain, and injecting it into areas to promote healing and tissue regeneration. Though PRP and PRFM injection work the same way, PRFM is the advanced, next generation or purest form of PRP. Whereas PRP the activation is immediate and growth factors work quickly, for PRFM the platelets remain viable with controlled growth factors over the course of a week, further enhancing effectiveness.
How many PRP treatments are needed for Facial Rejuvenation?
Due to the natural variation in quality of platelet-rich plasma, results will vary between individuals. The number of treatments needed depends on each individual patient, the desired outcome, and your treatment plan. Most patients require multiple sessions to obtain desired outcomes. Generally, for facial rejuvenation it is recommended to do two to three treatments four weeks apart, and to evaluate six weeks after the second or third treatment.
Pre-Treatment Instructions & Considerations:
You should not have PRFM treatment done if you have any of the following conditions:
An impaired immune system due to immunosuppressive diseases, HIV, HTV, or immunosuppressive medications
Skin conditions and diseases including facial cancer, existing or uncured; or if you are actively being treated with chemotherapy.
Notify your provider if you have a fever or are ill as we want to avoid treatment during such times. (Fever reduces platelet function.)
Do not have PRFM treatment if you are pregnant.
The quality of your platelets will determine your results. If you have a history of chronic thrombocytopenia or other known platelet disorders, please make your provider aware.
Discontinue blood thinning agents such as NSAIDS (Advil, Aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen), vitamin E, vitamin A, Ginko, Garlic, Flax, Cod Liver Oil, Essential Fatty Acids, and multivitamins, a minimum of 7 days (preferably 14 days) prior to treatment. It is fine to continue iron and vitamin D. (We want inflammation to occur – as this is one mechanism by which PRFM works.)
If you are taking any prescribed blood thinners, such as Plavix, Coumadin and Heparin, it is perfectly safe to remain taking these. Please make your provider aware at the day of treatment if you take any of these.
You may use Tylenol (acetaminophen) as needed prior to the treatment.
Avoid excessive sun or heat exposure for 7 days prior to treatment.
For two days prior to your appointment, drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
To get the best possible results, avoid drinking alcohol at least 72 hours prior to your PRFM treatment. Alcohol will temporarily suppress platelet quality and function which may affect your outcome.
If possible, refrain from or minimize smoking 24-72 hours prior to your procedure as it impacts the healing process.
The day of your procedure for facial rejuvenation:
Please eat a normal breakfast or lunch the day of your PRFM session.
Drink a bottle of water (500 mL) at least 2 hours before your session.
What to expect after PRFM Facial Rejuvenation & Post-Treatment Instructions:
There have been no known side effects associated with PRFM reported to date. As with any injectable procedure, some patients may experience some mild and temporary irritation, swelling, bruising, itching, discoloration or tenderness at the injection site. If you experience any pain or discomfort, you may take Tylenol or other Acetaminophen-containing products as directed.
The following 72 hours after treatment are the most important in maximizing the effectiveness of your results. During this time, the PRFM will solidify to form a clot under the skin where it was injected. It is very important to leave the treated area as undisturbed as possible. The concentrated growth factors in the clot will start to release as it begins to breakdown and dissolve naturally over the next few days. The growth factors then stimulate the skin to produce new collagen and the hair follicles to grow.
During the first 72 hours:
Avoid applying pressure to treatment area. This includes massaging and rubbing. Light touch is okay.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and smoking. Smokers do not heal well and results may take longer.
Do not expose the treatment areas to cold or excessive heat. Avoid saunas, steam rooms, swimming, vigorous exercise, sun and heat exposure.
Feel free to shower after 8-12 hours but avoid hot water when bathing. Cool or lukewarm water is okay.
Do not lie down directly on the treatment areas if possible. This is to avoid the risk of pressure on the treated areas from your pillow.
You may have a bruise at the blood draw site.
In rare cases, skin infection or reaction may occur, which is easily treated with an antibiotic or inflammatory. Please contact your provider immediately if you notice unusual discomfort, redness, warmth, or drainage.
Do not apply make up to your face for the remainder of the day. If you need to apply make-up, you may do so the next day. Please use cleaned makeup brushes, sponges or applicators and use a very gentle touch. You must avoid prematurely disturbing the PRFM clot process in the treated area.
The product can appear lumpy and swollen for at least 24-72 hours. It is also normal to feel “firmness” at the injection site for a few days after treatment. The area will soften over time leaving you with a soft and natural look.
If we treated tear troughs (under eyes), you may appear puffy for up to a week. When we treat this area, we over treat by 25% to enhance results. Please plan accordingly for downtime.
Avoid botox, facials, dermal fillers and other facial treatments for seven days after PRFM.
Wait 7 days before resuming any vibrating devices directly over the treatment sites such as a Clarisonic Brush or facial massager.
Continue to avoid blood thinning agents such NSAIDS (Advil, Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naproxen), vitamin E, vitamin A, Ginko, Garlic, Flax, Cod Liver Oil, Essential Fatty Acids and least one week after your treatment. Try to refrain from applying ice to the injected area as ice acts as an anti-inflammatory.
Continue increased water intake the first week after your treatment.
How long does PRFM take to work?
Onset of results vary. Your treatment can take up to 30 days to begin taking effect. The recommended initial PRFM facial rejuvenation treatment is two to three treatments four weeks apart and to evaluate six weeks after second or third treatment. Patience is important.
How long do PRFM treatments last?
Treatments are cumulative and results are temporary, typically lasting about 12-18 months. Retreatment approximately every 12 months is recommended to maintain your results after your initial treatment series is completed.
The benefits of PRFM facial rejuvenation can be enhanced by using medical-grade skincare products. Please contact us for product recommendations.
If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us!
