The introduction of new technology and techniques in hair restoration brings with it the potential to provide dramatically improved results and a better patient experience. But such advancements also bring plenty of patient questions. At the Miami Hair & Skin Institute, we are leaders in the development and use of game-changing hair restoration methods and pride ourselves in steadfast commitment to ensuring that the procedures we perform and technology we use are safe, proven, and effective.
One of the newer and most frequently asked about developments in hair restoration is the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Physicians are increasingly using this biotechnology to address a range of health issues, including healing injuries, speeding recovery after surgery, and fixing dermatological problems.
Over the past several years, PRP therapy has also quickly become a mainstream and popular treatment for certain types of male and female pattern baldness. At the 2019 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in Washington, DC, the leader of a comprehensive research study on the use of PRP therapy to treat hair loss concluded that “studies are indicating that PRP is a safe, effective hair loss treatment that has the potential to greatly improve the quality of life of millions of people.”
Here is what you need to know about PRP for hair restoration and whether it offers you an opportunity to address your hair loss issues.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for Hair Loss?
Platelets are the clotting cells of our blood, but they are also much more. They are enriched with growth and healing factors that initiate repairs and provide help to stem cells in damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
PRP contains several growth factors and cytokines that enhance the body’s natural capacity to repair and regenerate itself. PRP therapy takes these natural processes and supercharges them.
PRP also has high concentrations of several factors thought to stimulate hair regrowth. These growth factors move follicles from their dormant state (in which hair is no longer growing) to an active state in which normal hair growth occurs.
What is Involved in PRP Therapy For Hair Loss?
PRP treatments involve a physician or technician taking a sample of blood from the patient and then placing the sample in a centrifuge that separates the platelets from the blood’s other elements. As used to treat injured or damaged tissue, the resulting PRP is then injected into that tissue, stimulating the healing that the body is already doing on its own.
In PRP therapy for hair loss, the doctor injects the plasma directly into a patient’s hair follicles in a session that usually takes no more than 10-20 minutes. Injection sessions continue once a month for three months, with injections once every three to six months after that.
Who is a Good Candidate For PRP Therapy For Hair Loss?
Even though we have seen excellent results when using PRP in conjunction with other hair restoration treatments, PRP therapy may not be the most effective option for every hair loss case. But you should consider and discuss PRP therapy with your hair restoration physician if:
- You are in the early stages of hair loss.
- You have areas of “weak quality” hair growth on your scalp, where you can still observe functioning hair follicles.
- You have small areas of alopecia areata.
- You are in good overall health and don’t suffer from certain types of blood disorders, skin conditions, liver disorders, or diabetes.
Call the Miami Hair & Skin Institute Today to Learn More About PRP Therapy for Hair Loss
At the Miami Hair & Skin Institute, platelet-rich plasma therapy is just one of many advanced hair restoration options we offer for men and women who wish to restore their hair and regain their confidence and self-esteem.
Learn more about PRP therapy for hair loss in Miami by contacting our Institute online or calling us directly at 877-443-9070.