Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is blood plasma containing a very high concentration of blood platelets. When made into a fibrin mix, it resembles a thin gel that is used to stimulate healthy tissue growth. Originally developed as a means to speed up the healing of injured tendons and joints, it’s now popular as a skin rejuvenation treatment.
Micro-needling is a procedure that works to stimulate healthy skin growth through the creation of tiny channels in the skin. It’s mostly performed as a means to diminish the appearance of age-related skin problems on the face, primarily fine wrinkles and blemishes. Sometimes it’s beneficial to combine PRP treatments with micro-needling, especially if the facial skin is overly wrinkled and full of discolorations.
How PRP Works
Blood platelets contain many growth factors, especially proteins, that acts as signaling agents. When we injure ourselves and bleed, the platelets help stop the blood flow by clotting it. Afterwards, the nutrients in the blood work to build new replacement tissue. The growth factors in the platelets help organize the tissue formation, ensuring that the proper tissues build up in the right places and in the proper amounts.
When injected into and beneath the skin layers, PRP signals injury even though no injury has occurred. The body responds in the same manner it would had the bloodstream sprung a leak. Over a period of a month or so following multiple injection sessions, the skin begins to look more even in tone because damaged tissues are quickly being replaced by newer, healthier growth.
About Micro-Needling
During this treatment, many tiny micro-channels are created in the skin. These channels fill with lymphatic fluid, liquid scar tissue, and nutrients. After a series of treatments, visible improvement in skin tone and texture is realized.
Combining the Two Treatments
We often suggest micro-needling as a simple, minimally-invasive procedure for correcting such problems as superficial blemishes and fine wrinkles such as crow’s feet. If we decide that PRP would help things, we would be happy to combine these treatments for optimal results.
As you can see, these two treatments can definitely be combined for maximum effect for improving the appearance of the skin. To learn more, schedule a consultation at Rios Center for Plastic Surgery in Edinburg. Contact us today to book your appointment with our team in the Rio Grande Valley/RGV area.
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