Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment
PRP Therapy
Support skin quality and hair health with platelet rich plasma treatment
Your body contains components that support normal repair processes. Platelets in your blood play a role in clotting and are also associated with signalling involved in tissue repair. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment uses a concentrated portion of your own blood, prepared in a clinical setting, and delivered to a targeted area as part of a personalised plan.
How does it work?
A small blood sample is collected and processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate platelets. This platelet rich concentration is then prepared for treatment and delivered to the area of concern using a sterile technique. PRP is a medical procedure and suitability must be confirmed by a consultation, including a review of your medical history, medications, and goals. Outcomes vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.
What health concerns can PRP Therapy address?
PRP treatment has a range of uses in medical practice. Your doctor can advise whether it may be appropriate for you, noting that evidence and suitability varies by condition and person.
- Hair concerns, where PRP may support hair density in some people
- Certain soft tissue injuries as part of a broader recovery plan, where clinically appropriate
- Some tendon-related concerns such as tennis elbow, in suitable patients
- Some joint concerns such as osteoarthritis, where PRP may be considered in a management plan for selected patients
- Skin quality concerns, where PRP may support overall skin appearance in some people
What skin concerns can PRP Therapy address?
Many people choose PRP treatment because it uses a component prepared from their own blood. PRP may be used on its own or as part of a broader treatment plan discussed in your consultation.
PRP may be considered for:
- Improving the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Supporting more even-looking skin tone and texture
- Dry or dull skin appearance
- Improving the appearance of skin that looks crepey
- Supporting the appearance of skin firmness and hydration
- Improving the appearance of some acne scarring and post-trauma scarring, where suitable
FAQ
How to prepare and follow-up PRP Treatment
Your practitioner will provide personalised instructions. General preparation may include:
- Avoid smoking for several days before and after treatment, as smoking can affect healing
- Drink plenty of water before your appointment to help with blood collection and reduce the chance of light-headedness
- Discuss pain relief with your practitioner before taking anything, especially if you use blood-thinning medicines or have medical conditions
- Avoid alcohol on the day of treatment. Your practitioner may also recommend avoiding very fatty meals and limiting caffeine on the day, depending on your circumstances
I got my PRP treatment. Now what?
Aftercare advice may vary depending on the treatment area and method used. Your practitioner will guide you. General aftercare may include:
- Avoid touching the treated area for at least two hours to reduce infection risk and allow the treatment sites to settle
- Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sun protection as advised
- Avoid strenuous or high-impact exercise for the period advised by your practitioner. Consider lower-impact activity such as walking or gentle cycling if appropriate
- Avoid hot baths, spas, and saunas for the period advised
- Sleep with your head elevated if recommended, to help manage swelling
Risks and Recovery
PRP treatment is a higher-risk non-surgical procedure and involves risks. Results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Common short-term effects can include redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising, itching, and temporary discomfort at the treatment sites. Small lumps or firmness may occur and usually settle. Less common risks can include infection, prolonged swelling, skin discolouration, scarring, flare of inflammation, nerve irritation, or an unsatisfactory or uneven result that may require further management.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe or worsening pain, increasing redness or heat, discharge, fever, spreading swelling, or any other concerning symptoms.
Recovery time varies. Some people return to normal activities the same day, while bruising or swelling may be visible for several days. This information is general and is not a substitute for a consultation with an appropriately qualified and registered health practitioner. This information is intended for adults aged 18+.