PRP/PRFM Hair Restoration
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. PRFM treatment may be used on the scalp for hair loss or hair thinning by stimulating natural hair growth. PRFM has more long-term benefits for the hair follicle and growth cells in treatment area.
How many PRP treatments are needed for Hair Restoration?
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 hair restoration it is recommended to do 3 treatments six weeks apart.
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.
You may continue other hair loss treatments such as laser treatment, minoxidil, or hormone blocking tablets before your procedure.
It is okay to color your hair up to 7 days before the procedure.
The day of your procedure for hair restoration:
Shower the morning of your treatment and wash your hair very thoroughly using your regular shampoo.
Do not apply sprays, gels, or any other styling products to your hair.
If you wear a hair system, please remove it prior to shampooing and do not wear it before your PRFM treatments.
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 Hair Restoration & 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, washing, using a cap/hats, pony tails.
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.
Dry shampoo is okay to use.
If possible, avoid washing hair for three days minimum, seven days if possible.
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.
You may have a bruise at the blood draw site.
You may notice a tingling sensation while the cells are being activated.
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.
Avoid resuming Minoxidil (Formula 82M, Rogaine®), hair coloring, and straightening for 3 days.
Continue increased water intake the first week after your treatment.
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.
How long does PRFM take to work?
Onset of results vary. Your treatment can take 30 days to begin taking effect. The recommended initial PRFM hair restoration treatment is 3 treatments six weeks apart. The final effects can take up to 3 months after final treatment, so patience is important.
How long do PRFM treatments last?
Treatments are cumulative and results are temporary, typically lasting about 12-18 months. Length of retention of new hair varies by type of hair loss, adherence to maintenance regimen, and patient specific factors. Retreatment approximately every 12 months is recommended to maintain your results after your initial treatment series is completed.
It is also recommended to take supplements for hair such as Nutrafol or Viviscal
If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us!
