What is PRF?
PRF, or Platelet-Rich Fibrin, represents the cutting edge in platelet concentrate therapy. It is a fibrin matrix containing platelet cytokines, growth factors, and cells that promote skin rejuvenation, hair growth, and wound healing.
PRF Treatment: PRF is a natural aesthetic injectable renowned for its ability to rejuvenate facial appearance. Utilizing a concentration of your blood (PRF) can restore a more youthful, smooth look for many patients. The injections continue to stimulate collagen generation over time, leading to sustained improvement. This treatment is often performed in a series for optimal results. Some patients may choose a combination of hyaluronic acid filler mixed with PRF for enhanced outcomes.
How to extract PRF?
Preparation: Ensure that the procedure is conducted in a clean, sterilized workspace. Gather all necessary tools and materials, including PRF tubes, centrifuge machine, syringe, blood collection needle, blood collection tubes, and disinfectant alcohol.
Blood Collection: Select an appropriate blood collection site (usually the patient’s forearm) and disinfect the area with alcohol. Then use a blood collection needle to draw 10 to 20 milliliters of blood and transfer it into the PRF tubes.
These tubes may have special structures on their inner walls to promote PRF formation. Ensure that the tubes are tightly sealed.
Centrifugation Separation: Place the prepared PRF tubes into the centrifuge machine and set the correct centrifuge parameters (speed and time) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, the centrifuge will spin the blood for a certain period (usually 10 to 15 minutes) to separate its different components.
Extraction of PRF: After centrifugation, the PRF will deposit as a clot at the bottom of the tube. Carefully extract the PRF clot from the tube using a syringe or appropriate tool. The PRF exhibit clotting and viscous characteristics.
Storage: The extracted PRF can be used immediately for treatment or stored for a period of time under specific conditions. If storing, typically place the PRF in a clean container to avoid cross-contamination and store it at a temperature of 4°C.
Disposal of Waste: Dispose of used blood collection equipment and other waste in accordance with medical waste disposal standards.
How to use PRF treatment:
1. Consultation and Evaluation: Patients undergo a thorough consultation and skin assessment by a professional physician to discuss treatment expectations and assess skin conditions.
2. Pre-Treatment Preparation: The physician cleanses the skin and may apply topical anesthesia cream to ensure patient comfort.
3. Blood Collection: A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient’s vein, typically using a PRF tube, similar to a standard blood test.
4. Centrifugation and PRF Preparation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge machine for separation, yielding Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) enriched with platelets and growth factors.
5. Application of PRF: PRF can be applied to the skin via microneedling, injection, or topical application.
o Microneedling: PRF is directly applied onto the skin punctured by microneedles.
o Injection: PRF is injected into treatment areas using fine needles.
o Topical Application: PRF is applied directly to the skin surface.
What is the difference between PRP and PRF?
The key difference lies in the extraction method, the composition of the resulting product, and the prolonged release of growth factors.
PRF is pure plasma and free of platelet-damaging anticoagulants present in PRP.
PRF has a higher concentration of platelets and growth factors than PRP.
PRF is purer, more effective and more potent than PRP
In other words, PRF is a second-generation PRP.
What are any risks use PRF?
PRF treatments are generally well-tolerated, with potential side effects including swelling, bruising, soreness, redness, and tenderness. These are usually mild and transient. Post-scalp treatment, patients can shower and wash their hair after a few hours, but it’s advisable to avoid harsh chemicals or coloring products for at least 72 hours.
In the realm of aesthetics, Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) stands out as a highly favored therapeutic modality, harnessing the power of its unique bioactive constituents to support skin regeneration. By extracting a patient’s blood and processing it to concentrate growth factors and platelets, PRF injections stimulate cellular regeneration and collagen production. This natural approach is safe, and effective, and offers shorter recovery times compared to other treatments. With more individuals choosing PRF for cosmetic enhancement, we’re excited about its unique benefits and enduring effects.