PRP Injections For Hair Restoration In Corona, CA
Androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness) is a common condition that affects over 80 million U.S. adults. However, despite its familiar presence among us, the condition continues to be a source of frustration, low self-esteem, and even severe mental health issues such as social anxiety and depression. The only effective option for patients with hair loss until recently has been hair transplantation, a complex and expensive surgical procedure that comes with its share of harmful side effects. However, things have changed significantly since plastic surgery has found the multiple benefits of platelet-rich plasma injections, a minimally invasive procedure that requires no scalpel, anesthesia, or recovery time.
Platelet-Rich Plasma
Platelet-rich plasma is a medical procedure that uses your blood to help accelerate the body's natural healing process. Initially, medical professionals exclusively used platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, to treat sports injuries such as chronic tendon and muscle injuries. However, dermatology soon discovered the beneficial properties of high concentrations of platelets for skin and hair loss.
Our blood contains several compounds, including red and white blood cells, plasma, and platelets. Platelets are a type of cell that contribute to blood clotting and wound healing. More recently, it has been shown that when available in higher concentrations and injected into the skin, they can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, heal acne scars, prevent hair loss, and promote hair restoration.
PRP Injections For Hair Regrowth
Platelet-rich injection for hair restoration is a relatively new hair loss procedure, but clinical studies have given promising results for patients with hair loss. There are different types of hair loss, which, most of the time, are caused by aging and genetics. However, stress-related hair loss is also possible, especially if the individual smokes or has a diet low in vitamin D and iron.
Androgenetic alopecia or baldness appears when the hair follicles shrink and cause the hair to fall out. Injecting platelets into the scalp improves the blood flow to the damaged hair follicles and increases the thickness of their hair shafts. A high concentration of plasma rich in platelets activates your body's growth factors and restores the hair growth cycle, leading to improved hair density, healthy hair growth, and reduced hair shedding.
How Do PRP Injections For Hair Restoration Work?
This hair restoration treatment is relatively simple and is completed in 30 minutes. The healthcare provider performing the procedure will take your blood sample and put it in a centrifuge to spin and obtain the separated layer of plasma with a high concentration of platelets. The platelet-rich plasma will then be injected into the balding areas of your scalp. The procedure doesn’t require anesthesia, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. PRP injections are an outpatient procedure with no downtime necessary. Most patients are ready to resume their normal activities the next day after receiving this type of treatment for hair loss. However, maintenance treatments are necessary, so you will probably have to schedule new PRP injection sessions once a month for three months after the initial treatment, followed by one PRP injection every three to six months afterward.
PRP Injections Side Effects
Since the plasma injected into your scalp contains only your blood, the risk of an allergic reaction to the compound is non-existent. Other potential side effects of PRP injections are possible, but only in rare cases and as a consequence of the procedure itself and not the content of the injection. It is crucial to undergo this type of hair loss treatment only when performed by an experienced team of medical professionals who work in a sterile environment.
Some of the possible side effects of the procedure include nerve injuries to the scalp, blood vessel injury, and injection or scar tissue at the injection site. If the healthcare provider decides to use anesthesia for the procedure, other side effects might include confusion and muscle aches. It is essential to discuss your medical history with your physician before opting for this hair growth treatment and avoid undergoing the procedure if you are taking blood thinners, have an active scalp infection, or suffer from chronic liver disease.
Results of PRP Injections For Hair Restoration
While PRP injections benefit hair thickening and can prevent future hair loss, patients should have realistic expectations from the procedure. Platelet-rich plasma encourages hair growth and increases hair count but may not match your natural growth pattern. The procedure is very effective for patients suffering from moderate hair loss and can be used to promote growth after hair transplants when necessary for people experiencing dramatic hair loss.
A study found that while a sufficient theoretical scientific foundation supports the use of PRP in hair restoration, the application of PRP in this context is still in its early stages. You’ll need a few injections before you can see the first results. During the first months after the procedure, you’ll notice that you are losing less hair. As the platelet-rich plasma reactivates your hair cycle growth phase, you’ll see improved hair thickness and healthier hair. For the best results, talk to your healthcare provider about the lifestyle changes you can make, such as adopting a diet that encourages hair health to actively contribute to the hair restoration process and maximize the effects of this potent therapy for hair loss.
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