Platelet-Rich Plasma Can Regenerate Tissue Growth: Dr. Chil Khakham describes how the regenerative benefits of PRP have led to an increase interest in its use in anti-aging medicine.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentration of certain human blood cells in a small volume of plasma that contains platelet-rich growth factors (PRGF). According to the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the PRGF have a concentration of seven fundamental protein growth factors proven to initiate all wound healing. The platelet concentrate also contains three proteins to act as cell adhesion molecules for osteoconduction (bone growth), connective tissue proliferation and epithelial migration. In short, PRP initiates the wound-healing cascade, which regenerates tissue, increases collagen production and promotes repair.

PRP is derived directly from patients’ serum and is therefore inherently safe and free from concerns over transmittable diseases, as well as allergic reactions. However, anesthetics such as Lidocaine, Marcaine, or Procaine are usually used with PRP therapies, and allergies to these anesthetics should be discussed with a physician prior to treatment.

The regenerative benefits of PRP have led to an increase interest in its use in anti-aging medicine. Its healing properties are used in medical aesthetics to treat fine lines, wrinkles, volume loss, dark under-eye circles, acne and acne scarring. PRP stimulates collagen production within three to six weeks, which causes a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Volume correction may occur over the next three to six months.

The effects of PRP can last up to two years as the PRP continues to induce collagen regeneration, thus causing an overall improvement in skin hydration, texture and tone. Aesthetic medicine utilizing PRP does create a longer-lasting effect, however, it does take some time to work and multiple treatments may be needed. Some PRP aesthetic therapies include PRP micropen facial rejuvenation, PRP non-surgical facelifts and PRP dermal fillers.

PRP proliferates connective tissue growth by stimulating the healing cascade. This promotes the growth of new ligament and tendon fibers, resulting in stronger ligaments and tendons, more stable joint function and reduction in pain. PRP therapy is an autologous treatment, meaning using the patients’ own plasma to target the root cause of pain to heal itself. Other regenerative injection therapies may also be considered to stabilize joint function, such as prolotherapy or Prolozone.

PRP therapy is a great natural alternative to consider for aesthetic medicine and/or pain management. It can be used in place of or in conjunction with other aesthetic treatments such as Botox, Dysport and HA fillers. Many people are seeing the anti-aging effects of PRP alone. PRP injections should also be considered for joint regeneration and chronic pain reduction before having surgery. Many studies show a high success rate when PRP therapy is used for ligament, tendon or joint pain.

Dr. Chil Khakham is a naturopathic physician at Natural Medicine and Detox, in Phoenix. For more information, call 602-307-0888 or visit NaturalMedicineAndDetox.com.