PRF is a non-surgical therapy whereby a small tube of a person’s own blood is spun down in a special centrifuge to separate its components. The fibrin layer, rich in growth factors, is then collected and, after an application of a topical anesthetic, injected into the scalp to reach the hair follicle. This process stimulates specialized cells named dermal papilla, which play a critical role in hair growth. Due to its reliance on the person’s own growth factors, PRF therapy is one of the most effective and safest hair therapies available.
To schedule an appointment to discuss the procedure, please call us at (609)-683-3661. We are conveniently located in Princeton, New Jersey.
While hair loss in women is very common, effecting over 50% of us, it does not make it any less distressing. Even a small amount of hair loss can be devastating to self-esteem and overall quality of life. Our hair is a big part of our self-image and when we lose it, it can feel like a loss of identity, of femininity, and of confidence.
Having a head of thick, full, hair is something we all want, but as we age, and our bodies change, so does the density of our hair. Whether it is caused by postpartum issues from childbirth, genetics, medical issues, diet, stress, or menopause, hair thinning and hair loss can feel inevitable, but it does not have to be.
Over the last several decades, great strides have been made in the field of regenerative medicine and the introduction of innovations in the process of replacing or "regenerating" human cells and tissues. One treatment in particular, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which is also successfully used in Orthopedic, Dental, and other clinical settings, has gained wide attention in the medical world for its ability to restore hair loss.
In our practice, we utilize the next generation of the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) technology, called platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). PRF has shown remarkable benefits and superior outcomes while being extremely safe and well tolerated.
When comparing PRF to PRP, PRF yields a superior concentration of platelets and white blood cells than PRP. Additionally, Platelet Rich Fibrin contains a concentrate of platelets that are NOT stripped of their fibrin (clot) and Mesenchymal Stem Cells, which are NOT found in PRP. Platelet Rich Plasma gives off a burst of platelets with growth factors immediately after treatment. As opposed to this quick release in PRP treatments, Platelet Rich Fibrin forms a fibrin clot which is sustained in the tissues for several weeks after treatment. This clot gives off a slow release of growth factors and, combined with the mesenchymal stem cells and white blood cells, encourages improved collagen production, elastin production, and blood supply to the area treated.
The full procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Generally, 3-4 treatments are advised, however, more may be indicated for some individuals. Touch up treatments may be done after the initial group of treatments to boost and maintain the results. The frequency of touch up treatments varies by individual and can range from 4-6 months up to 12 months.
If you are interested in considering the PRF procedure, please ask any of our team members. We will schedule a visit to discuss your condition, goals, and whether PRF is the appropriate treatment.
The treatment itself is only mildly painful. It involves a blood draw and injection of the treatment into the scalp and hairline. We offer a numbing agent to make the process more comfortable.
There is no downtime and you may resume your daily activities right after the treatment.
You can expect to see results in approximately 4-6 months. Every patient’s results may vary, depending on a variety of factors.
There is no major risks associated with PRF because it is using your blood from your bloodstream, without any surgery involved. Bruising can occur after the treatment but usually resolves within a week or two.