What Is PRP and PRF for Hair Restoration?
We understand that hair loss or thinning can cause both men and women to feel self-conscious, taking a negative toll on well-being. There are several factors that can lead to hair loss or hair thinning, including genetics and hormones, which can lead to androgenetic alopecia. In many cases, it is irreversible. To regain a full head of hair and fill in thinning patches, people often explore interventions like PRP or PRF for hair restoration in The Woodlands.
Both PRP and PRF are available at Rivela Plastic Surgery and are similar treatments that use injections of your blood’s own platelets—which contain growth factors and proteins—to stimulate hair growth. After your treatment, your own natural growth factors stimulate the hair follicle cells to produce thicker, stronger hair shafts.
PRP, which stands for platelet-rich plasma, and PRF Platelet-Rich Fibrin are both shown to effectively enhance hair growth when injected into the scalp. Healing and growth factors found in PRP and PRF repair the hair follicles to encourage hair regrowth of fuller, shinier, and healthier hair. PRP also stimulates tissue regeneration to restore a healthy scalp. PRF and PRP therapy are sometimes combined with other approaches and medications. Moreover, both by themselves are significantly less invasive than hair transplants.
What Is the Difference Between PRP and PRF?
Rivela Plastic Surgery offers both PRP and PRF. So, what is the difference?
Both PRP and PRF are similar treatments that use injections of your blood’s own platelets to boost hair growth. Your own natural growth factors stimulate the hair follicle cells to produce thicker, stronger hair shafts.
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a second generation of Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and is an all-natural solution that can treat areas of hair loss and hair thinning with more growth factors such as white blood cells, fibrin, and stem cells, and fewer preservatives. Because PRF has more growth factors and no preservatives, PRF is considered the best treatment for injecting into the hairline or area of hair loss, although PRP is still available and is slightly less expensive. When PRF is injected into the scalp, it slowly releases growth factors that stimulate dormant hair follicles, encouraging a fuller hair growth cycle.
PRP is also still used at Rivela Plastic Surgery during our in-office Neograft hair transplants because it has more preservatives, so PRP is the right choice when combining the treatment with a hair transplant. During Neograft hair restoration cases, PRP is best because the preservative properties in the formulation can be used over several hours.
Studies have shown that both PRP and PRF treatment can improve hair growth, and with an 89% Worth it Rating on RealSelf, it’s clear that patients are generally happy with results (especially with four treatments—spaced four to six weeks apart—to see the most dramatic changes).
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for hair restoration is a state-of-the-art procedure that can address thinning hair or bald spots, and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is the second generation of PRP.
Who is a Good Candidate for PRP/PRF Hair Restoration?
When your age finally catches up to you, you might start to notice a receding hairline. If you have a genetic predisposition to balding, you will find it beneficial to explore PRP hair restoration.
This procedure is also an excellent option for patients looking for a non-surgical solution to hair thinning or hair loss. PRP for hair restoration does not require any incisions, stitches, or recovery time.
What to Expect During Your Hair-Restoration Consultation
Consulting with Dr. Lucian Rivela is the first step in your hair restoration journey. Dr. Rivela will help you determine the right way to address your hair problems.
During a consultation in our Woodlands office, your scalp and hair will be examined to set the right expectations for your PRP hair-restoration injections. It’s best to be completely honest when answering any questions regarding your overall health, hereditary factors, and lifestyle so that Dr. Rivela can properly evaluate the risk of complications.
The PRP and PRF for Hair Restoration Procedure
Both PRP and PRF hair restoration treatments are a three-step process that makes use of your own blood, which minimizes the chance of any adverse reaction. Usually, it takes three treatments, 4 to 6 weeks apart, to see results. Maintenance PRP injections may be required every 4 to 6 months.
The first step in the process is obtaining platelet-rich plasma from red blood cells. Your blood will be drawn and placed in a centrifuge. This machine mechanically separates the components of your blood. Once the plasma is ready, it will be drawn into a syringe and then injected into the areas of your scalp that need more hair growth.
Local anesthetic is used to numb the area where injections will be administered. You need to inform Dr. Rivela if you have a known allergic reaction to anesthesia. Patients may also be able to use Pro-Nox, a self-administered analgesic, to control any pain, discomfort, or anxiety during the process. This 50/50 mix of oxygen gas and nitrous oxide takes effect very quickly, and its effects fade more quickly than the lingering side effects of general anesthesia.
Your PRP For Hair Restoration Houston treatment will be performed by Rivela Plastic Surgery’s team in The Woodlands.
What to Expect Following Your PRP or PRF for Hair Restoration Treatment
Although there is almost no downtime or recovery time with PRP and PRF treatments, bruising and swelling may occur in the early days after treatments. Your scalp may feel sensitive, and you might be under medication to help avoid infection. Avoid using harsh chemicals on your hair for the next 48 hours. If you are in The Woodlands area, we recommend visiting our clinic for the best treatment options available.
How Much Does PRP for Hair Restoration Cost?
The cost of PRP and PRF hair restoration treatments differs from person to person, depending on each patient’s needs. A consultation with Dr. Rivela will determine the total price of your hair restoration treatment.
Learn More About PRP and PRF Today
To learn more about PRP Hair Restoration in The Woodlands, TX, from a qualified plastic surgeon, please visit us at Rivela Plastic Surgery today. Our caring staff would love to answer your questions and help you feel at ease about your hair restoration decision. At our clinic, we understand the value of having a full head of attractive, healthy hair as a man or woman. Fill out an online form to schedule your free consultation today.
