Blood is made up of four primary components: Plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Plasma is the liquid component of blood—about 90% of it is water. Red blood cells transport oxygen, and white blood cells help the body respond to infections and injuries. Platelets are tiny cell fragments that circulate in the blood and play a central role in blood clotting. They can also be thought of as one of the first responders to an injury. When they arrive at the site of an injury, the platelets become activated and release growth factors and proteins called cytokines that promote the healing of injured tissues.

PRP is a therapy produced from the patient’s own blood that is made up of plasma and a high concentration of platelets. It is injected into the injured area, thereby introducing a high concentration of platelets (as well as growth factors and cytokines) to the injury site, helping it heal.

How is it works?

PRP can be administered in the doctor’s office. The doctor will draw your blood, spin it in the centrifuge to prepare the PRP, then inject the PRP directly into the site of your injury. The injection may be done with ultrasound guidance. The entire process should take less than an hour. You may need to rest following the procedure.

After discarding the red blood cells, what remains is a mixture of plasma and a concentration platelets. PRP typically contains three to five times the number of platelets found in the blood that is circulating in your body. PRP also contains white blood cells (also known as leukocytes). When PRP is prepared so that it has a higher-than-normal level of leukocytes, it is called leukocyte-rich PRP. When it is prepared so that it has a lower-than-normal level of leukocytes, it is called leukocyte-poor PRP.

It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions on how quickly to return to sports or other activities to ensure optimal recovery. Because nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, can impair platelet function, you may be advised to stop taking them for two weeks in advance of a PRP treatment.

You may need to come back for additional PRP treatments, or your doctor may provide PRP in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy or other medications.

At Milan Medical, we understand the importance of taking care of your body and feeling your best. Our Medspa offers a range of services to help you look and feel your best, including PRP Microneedling. PRP Microneedling is a safe, minimally-invasive procedure that uses powerful growth factors to reduce wrinkles, tighten skin, repair sun damage, and more. Our team of experienced professionals is here to answer all of your questions and guide you through the process. Come experience the Milan Medical difference!