You may have heard of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a skin treatment that uses your own blood to give you a more youthful, rejuvenated complexion. Well, the same technique is used in a similar procedure for hair loss, and it requires your own blood, too. It works by extracting plasma from your blood, which is rich in growth factors and exploiting it to stimulate hair growth.
What Does Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Hair Restoration Treat?
PRP hair injections can assist a multitude of hair loss issues, including receding hairlines, hereditary or male pattern baldness, shedding hair, widening hairline, hair falling out from ponytails or tight braids, hair loss due to stress, medication or vitamin deficiency, patchy hair loss, and more. The procedure works best during the early stages of hair loss and is not an ideal solution for individuals who are completely bald.
How does Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Hair Restoration Work?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrate of platelets—growth factors and bioactive proteins that are derived from your own blood. These growth factors assist in tissue regeneration and healing all over the body. PRP hair injections involve injecting this plasma in areas of desired hair growth so your body’s own healing and growth factors can stimulate hair growth. The process is inherently safe and free from any transmissible diseases, such as HIV or hepatitis.
The PRP Hair Restoration Experience
To begin the procedure, a small amount of blood is drawn from the arm. This blood is spun several times in a centrifuge to isolate and save the platelet rich plasma. This process takes approximately 30 minutes and is a closed sterile system. Prior to injection, the scalp is numbed with a local anesthetic. Then, the concentrated plasma with approximately four times the number of platelets and growth factors is injected into the scalp with a small needle, targeting areas of hair loss.
Upon completion of the PRP hair restoration, the patient rests for five minutes while the scalp is gently cleaned. There may be increased pain, pressure or discomfort in the scalp for 48-72 hours after the therapy. Swelling may occur at the PRP hair injection sites for one or two days following treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g, Ibuprofen, diclofenac, aspirin) should be avoided for the first 48 hours following PRP treatment. Tylenol, rest and ice can be used for post-injection pain.
I had a great experience with Dr Adams. He was very professional and at the same time took a very personal interest in me. His office is very efficient and well run. I never have had to wait and have always been seen at my scheduled time. I appreciated Dr Adams being very accessible whenever I had questions or concerns. My surgical procedure went well and it gave me the desired outcome.
What to Expect After PRP Hair Restoration
Patients typically experience a slowing of hair loss and new hair growth approximately three to six months after receiving PRP hair injections at our Birmingham, Alabama office. The typical recommended course consists of three PRP injections four to six weeks apart followed by one injection six months afterward. PRP treatments are not a cure for hair loss. Patients must undergo booster PRP hair injections every six to 12 months to maintain results. For maintenance and sustained results, many patients choose to undergo PRP hair injections every six months.
Why Choose Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery Clinic?
As a world-renowned plastic surgeon specializing in the face and neck, Dr. Rousso has more than 30 years of experience and has gained worldwide recognition for his contributions to the fields of plastic surgery and hair restoration. Dr. Adams is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, making him an expert in facial anatomy. He is an active member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.
Dr. Rousso and Dr. Adams will never give you a result that looks artificial; your results will always look subtle, natural, and inherent. Our facility uses state-of-the-art medical equipment and many of our staff have been with Dr. Rousso for more than 20 years. We offer a patient experience above and beyond what you will find elsewhere, including concierge services on par with the best five-star hotels. Our friendly staff can help you arrange travel and hotel accommodations, lab appointments, sitters, aftercare and many other services from start to finish. If you are considering PRP hair restoration in Birmingham, Montgomery, or surrounding areas, contact us today.