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Patient Information Leaflet

Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet Rich Plasma

If you are considering a Platelet Rich Plasma treatment, we recommend that you read the following information. This will help you to be fully prepared and know what questions to ask. We recommend that you check that the practitioner you choose is registered with a professional body. Prior to treatment, you should have a face-to-face consultation with your treating practitioner and be offered a cooling off period before returning for treatment, so that you have time to consider your decision carefully based on the information you have been provided with.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrated solution derived from your own blood that is rich in platelets, which are components of blood involved in healing and tissue regeneration. PRP contains platelets, plasma, growth factors and proteins that help stimulate the repair of damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, aid healing and promote skin rejuvenation. The treatment involves drawing blood, centrifugation, platelet concentration and then administering the PRP by injection, microneedling or topically.

Prior to treatment a consultation is conducted to assess your condition and determine if PRP is suitable for you. You should ensure that the person conducting your treatment is a healthcare professional and the procedure is performed in a clinical environment. Ensure that a sterile, single-use CE-marked blood collection kit is used to prevent contamination or infection. Ensure the kit is clearly labelled with the manufacturer’s name, lot number and expiration date. A medical-grade centrifuge designed for PRP preparation should be used to ensure accurate platelet concentration. Ensure the practitioner is experienced in PRP therapy to avoid improper injection techniques, correct platelet concentrations and safety in handling blood products.

Often the tube used for blood collection will contain an anti-coagulant, such as sodium citrate, to prevent blood clotting prior to injection, although certain methods without anti-coagulants may be used to produce Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) which is a gel-like fibrin matrix which can lead to a more gradual, sustained release of growth factors with less dispersion.

Ensure your practitioner is a registered healthcare practitioner working in a clinical environment.

What areas can be treated?

Platelet Rich Plasma is used in various medical and cosmetic treatments:

  • AESTHETICS: Also known as the ‘The Vampire Facial’, PRP is used for skin rejuvenation, improving texture, reducing wrinkles and promoting a youthful appearance. It can also be used in other areas of the body to improve scarring, promote healing and for general rejuvenation.
  • HAIR RESTORATION: PRP is commonly used for stimulating hair growth for hair loss or thinning either as a standalone treatment or as an adjunct to hair transplantation.
  • SEXUAL HEALTH: PRP is increasingly being used in genital treatments to enhance both aesthetic and functional outcomes for men and women. The O-Shot is reported to enhance sexual pleasure and sensitivity in women as well as improving vaginal dryness, atrophy and mild urinary incontinence and the P-Shot in men can enhance erectile function and sensitivity and marginally improve penile length and girth.
  • ORTHOPAEDICS: Treating joint pain, arthritis and tendon injuries, such as tennis elbow and rotator cuff injury.
  • SPORTS MEDICINE: Improve healing of acute sprains and tears and chronic injuries, like plantar fasciitis.
  • DENTAL AND SURGICAL: PRP can be used to aid recovery and promote healing in chronic ulcers.
If you are having PRP for a medical indication, ensure the premises is registered with the CQC.
How does it work?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy harnesses the body’s natural healing mechanisms by delivering a concentrated dose of platelets and growth factors directly to areas requiring regeneration, repair and rejuvenation.

Key components of PRP include platelets (cell fragments containing growth factors and cytokines), growth factors (such as platelet-derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor and epidermal growth factor), cytokines (proteins that modulate inflammation and cell to cell communication) and plasma (containing proteins like fibrinogen which helps form a scaffold for rejuvenation). Growth factors have various roles including stimulating cell division, blood vessel formation, enhancing collagen production and supporting cell growth and repair.

Once injected, the PRP is activated by exposure to tissue collagen, thrombin or calcium chloride and growth factors are released from granules within the platelets. This process then leads to collagen synthesis, new blood vessel formation, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery, tissue remodelling and the recruitment of stem cells and skin cells.

Following treatment, there is an initial inflammatory phase (Days 1-4) which removes damaged tissue and prepares the area for repair, next is the proliferative phase (Days 5-21) where cells are activated and granulation tissue is formed and finally is the remodelling phase (Weeks to Months) when collagen fibres are reorganised and cross-linked, strengthening the area treated and improving skin texture, quality and scarring.

Is it painful?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment is generally well-tolerated by most patients, but the level of pain can vary depending on the individual, the area being treated, the technique, the practitioner and analgesia used. Patients often describe the sensation as a pinching, stinging or a slight burning feeling during the injection. Facial PRP treatment, especially in conjunction with microneedling, may cause mild discomfort but is often well-tolerated whereas PRP injections into the scalp for hair loss can be moderately uncomfortable due to the sensitivity of the area. Using smaller needles and proper injection techniques can reduce discomfort, although some areas may require deeper or multiple injections, which could be more uncomfortable.

Analgesia may be used, and a topical anaesthetic cream is often applied before facial or scalp PRP treatments to numb the area and a local anaesthetic injection may be used for more sensitive areas like joints or the genitals. Alternatively, applying ice or a cold compress before or after the procedure can reduce pain and swelling.

After treatment, some patients experience soreness, swelling or a feeling of pressure at the injection site, which can last 1–3 days. Paracetamol may be used if required, although it is recommended to avoid anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, as this can interfere with the PRP process.

Is it safe?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is generally considered safe, as it uses the patient’s own blood, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or infections. However, like any medical procedure, it carries some potential side effects, risks, and complications.

Side-effects may be more likely due to the following factors:

  • Patient factors: Unrealistic expectations, underlying health problems, generally poor health, conditions affecting the blood, certain medication, age.
  • Practitioner factors: Training, years of experience, number of procedures performed.
  • Premises factors: Suitability of the premises, aseptic technique and clinical environment.
Ensure that you are provided with an out of hours number in case of an emergency.

Most side effects are mild and self-limiting, but understanding the risks and following aftercare instructions is essential for a successful outcome.

  • Pain/Discomfort: There may be a mild soreness or tenderness at the injection site, although not usually needed, paracetamol can be taken if required.
  • Swelling and Redness: This is a common side-effect due to temporary inflammation due to the healing process.
  • Bleeding: At the injection or microneedling site, usually minor and easily controlled.
  • Bruising: This may occur at any site where the PRP has been administered or at the site of drawing blood, bruising usually settles within a few days.
  • Haematoma or Clot Formation: This may manifest as a lump in the treatment area and may be caused by either some bleeding occurring under the skin during treatment or due to incomplete anti-coagulation of the PRP. It will resolve naturally over a few days to weeks.
  • Itching/Irritation: This occasionally occurs, especially in sensitive areas, but is rarely problematic. An antihistamine may be taken if needed.
  • Nausea/Sweating/Feeling Faint: More common in those patients who have a fear of blood or are needle phobic. Ensure your practitioner is aware of these concerns prior to treatment so risks can be mitigated.
  • Infection: This is a rare complication that can be caused by failure to adhere to aseptic technique during the procedure or contaminating the treatment area post-procedure by applying makeup or touching the area. It usually presents a few days after treatment where the skin becomes hot, red and inflamed and may cause the patient to feel unwell. It is essential to seek prompt medical attention if this occurs.
  • Allergic Reaction: As PRP is autologous (taken from your own body), allergic reactions are not possible, however, it is possible to react to the anaesthetic agent or anti-coagulant. This may lead to some inflammation, redness or itching of the skin which can be treated with an antihistamine. More severe allergic reactions which can affect breathing and lead to severe swelling needs immediate medical attention.
  • Nerve Injury: Injections can potentially cause damage to nearby nerves and lead to neuralgia (a sharp, electric shock type pain), numbness, hypersensitivity or altered sensation. Although these symptoms may last for several weeks, it is very rarely permanent.
  • Headache: When PRP is used for hair thinning, it can cause some headaches or scalp tightness. Simple analgesia can be taken if required.

If you develop any unexpected side-effects after treatment, it is important to contact your practitioner for a review as soon as possible, as they may be able to offer some corrective treatment. Although your practitioner may contact you by telephone or video call initially or you may send your own photographs, this is no substitute for a face-to-face review to provide an accurate diagnosis.

What does the procedure involve?

Before undergoing PRP treatment, you will have a consultation with your healthcare provider to assess whether you are a suitable candidate. This consultation involves a review of your medical history, medication (such as steroids, pain killers and blood thinners) and allergies. The area of concern will be examined to ensure that PRP is a suitable treatment and alternative options may be discussed. Prior to treatment, photographs should be taken and you will be asked to sign a consent form, either on paper or electronically, this will include risks, benefits and expected results. Ensure that you have had all your questions and concerns addressed before treatment. You should be given a cooling off period prior to your PRP treatment and given appropriate information including pre-treatment instructions, details of the procedure and aftercare advice.

PRP is derived from your own blood, so the first step of the procedure is to draw blood, typically from your arm, in a similar manner to a standard blood test. The amount of blood collected depends on the area being treated but is generally between 10-30ml. Your blood will be placed in a specialised PRP collection tube, which is then placed in a centrifuge. This machine will spin the blood, for about 5 to 15 minutes, at high speeds to separate the components based on density. The centrifuge separates the blood into its components, red blood cells are heavier and found at the bottom of the tube, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is the middle layer and is the most concentrated layer, containing the required platelets and growth factors and white blood cells and platelet-poor plasma forms the top layer. The middle layer (PRP) is carefully extracted using a sterile syringe. This PRP is then ready for injection or application. The quality and concentration of PRP can vary between individuals and preparation methods, but modern PRP kits are designed to provide a concentrated form that enhances healing.

In some cases, PRP activation is necessary to stimulate platelet function. Calcium chloride or thrombin may be added to the PRP to activate the platelets, releasing growth factors and cytokines. This step may be done just before the PRP is injected into the target area to ensure the most effective healing response.

Anaesthetic may be injected prior to PRP or if a topical anaesthetic is used, this is often applied after drawing blood to allow time for it to start exerting its anaesthetic effect. Depending on the treatment area, PRP is either injected directly, applied topically or via a microneedling device.

Facial Rejuvenation: PRP may be injected into specific areas of the face (such as under the eyes or along the cheeks) or applied topically following a microneedling session to promote collagen production.

Hair Restoration: PRP is injected into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles  and promote hair growth. Numbing cream is often applied to minimise discomfort.

Sexual Health (O-Shot, P-Shot): PRP is injected into the genital area (e.g. the clitoris and vagina for the O-Shot or the penis for the P-Shot). Numbing agents are used to minimise discomfort during these injections.

After your PRP treatment, it’s important to follow proper aftercare instructions to maximise results and minimise side effects. Depending on the procedure, follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor progress or for additional PRP treatments. Some patients may require 2–3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for optimal results. For aesthetic treatments, you may notice some immediate skin improvements, but the full results take 2–3 weeks to develop as collagen production and tissue healing continue.

Am I suitable for treatment?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a generally safe and effective treatment, but there are specific contraindications and requirements that must be considered to ensure the best outcomes and patient safety. You may not be suitable for treatment if any of the following apply:

  • Platelet Rich Plasma should not be performed on pregnant or breast-feeding women and is not recommended if you are actively trying to get pregnant or undergoing IVF.
  • If you are allergic to anaesthetic agents, anti-coagulants or other agents that are needed for treatment.
  • If you are suffering from any skin infection in or near the treatment area, including cold sores.
  • If you are unwell, including coughs and colds, on the day of treatment.
  • If you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune conditions, blood clotting disorders, cancer, immunosuppression (either medical or drug-related).
  • If you have active cancer and be cautious if you have cancer currently in remission.
  • If you have severe anaemia or other conditions affecting the blood or platelets.
  • Caution should be undertaken if you have any blood borne infections, such as HIV or Hepatitis B.
  • If you are taking any medicines which affect bleeding or platelet function, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatories, warfarin or DOACs.
  • If you suffer from keloid scarring or have active skin conditions, such as acne or psoriasis.
  • If your practitioner does not feel they can meet your treatment expectations.
It is important to be honest about your medical history, previous surgery, previous or planned dental treatment and any medication taken, so that you can have a safe and effective treatment.
Pre-treatment advice

For optimum results, patients should have a healthy blood and platelet count, be in good health, avoid medication that affects blood clotting or platelet function, such as aspirin, warfarin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (e.g. ibuprofen and naproxen) for 5-7 days pre-treatment (unless medically required), avoid alcohol for 48 hours, have good skin health, have realistic expectations and be compliant with all pre and post treatment instructions.

  • Avoid taking anti-inflammatories (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) for 5-7 days prior to treatment (unless this has been prescribed by your doctor) as this increases the risk of bruising and affects platelet function.
  • Alcohol, fish oils, St. John’s Wort, Gingko Biloba, garlic and Vitamin E should also be avoided for 5-7 days prior to treatment to lessen the risk of bruising.
  • Drink plenty of water, ensure you are well hydrated to aid the blood draw process and the quality of the PRP.
  • If you are prone to bruising, taking arnica orally for a few days prior to treatment may lessen the risk.
  • If you are unwell on the day of your appointment, contact the practitioner to reschedule.
  • Ensure your practitioner is informed if there are any changes in your medical history or medication taken before receiving any treatment.

Make sure you have allowed some days after treatment for downtime for any side-effects to settle.

Post-treatment advice

Immediately after treatment there may be some swelling, redness, itching and tenderness.  This is a normal result of the procedure and will settle within a few days.

Attention to aftercare is paramount to achieve your desired results and minimise side-effects.

Many practitioners advise the following:

  • Do not apply make-up for 24 hours after treatment to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 48-72 hours to allow the platelets to promote healing and reduce the risk of swelling.
  • Apply ice or a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort if required.
  • Try to avoid touching or massaging the area for 24 hours.
  • Use a gentle cleanser and moisturise post-treatment for comfort.
  • Avoid harsh products and those containing exfoliants and retinols for a few days pre-treatment and 1 week after.
  • Wear sun protection and avoid active tanning for 1-2 weeks post-treatment.
  • For PRP treatments to the scalp, do not wash the hair for 24 hours, use only products recommended by your practitioner and do not scratch or rub the scalp.
  • Refrain from facial treatments like massages, facials, or chemical peels for at least two weeks.
  • Contact your practitioner if you experience any unwanted side-effects.
Choosing your practitioner

Ensure you know the following information:

  • Practitioner’s full name
  • Practitioner’s profession (doctor, dentist, nurse, midwife, or pharmacist)
  • Practitioner’s contact details (address, telephone number, and email)
  • An emergency contact number if a complication arises.

Practitioners should be registered with a professional body (General Medical Council, General Dental Council, Nursing and Midwifery Council, General Pharmaceutical Council or Health and Care Professions Council) and you can check their current registration status online. Practitioners are accountable to these bodies and are legally required to have indemnity insurance in place for all the treatments they perform.

If you are not happy with your treatment outcome, you should attempt to resolve this with your treating practitioner in the first instance. If you need to see a different practitioner, you are entitled to receive a copy of your treatment record outlining the product used, areas injected and dosage, as well as any photographs that were taken, to have your concerns addressed safely. However, remedial treatment may not always be possible and sometimes it may be necessary to allow time for the treatment to wear off.

The ACE Group World patient leaflets have been produced to give you some ideas of what the treatment involves, possible side effects, what you should expect and what you should ask.

Patient Leaflets

Purchase Patient Information Leaflets to use in your own practice.

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