A relatively new solution to many different ailments is platelet rich plasma (PRP). Doctors are tapping into the body’s own ability to heal itself, using this substance to improve the health of many men and women. The use of PRP, which comes from your own blood, was studied in various applications. One of the most common uses in 2019 is to treat hair loss. Many plastic surgeons offer this treatment option to patients who are looking for a solution when other treatments failed. Specifically, PRP for hair loss is a three-step medical treatment and many patients benefit from investing in this procedure.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Plasma is made of water and proteins and is a main component of blood. Through plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets circulate throughout the body. Platelets (also called thrombocytes) are blood cells that cause blood clots and other necessary growth healing functions. Platelets play an important role in the body’s natural healing process, quickening tissue repair.
What is the procedure?
Simply put, PRP for hair loss involves injecting your own plasma into the targeted treatment areas. Your plasma is obtained using a centrifuge to separate the plasma in your blood from the rest of its contents.
PRP for hair loss is a three-step process. When you start out with PRP treatment, each session is spread out. Typically, they are scheduled four to six weeks apart.
You will have an initial consultation with your doctor to discuss your needs. On the day of your treatment, your doctor will perform the following three steps.
Step 1
Your blood is drawn. Typically, the doctor takes the blood from your arm. It is then put into a centrifuge, which is a machine that spins rapidly to separate fluids of different densities.
Step 2
After about 10 minutes in the centrifuge, your blood separates into three various components.
- Platelet-poor plasma
- Platelet-rich plasma
- Red blood cells
Step 3
The platelet-rich plasma is drawn up into a syringe and injected into the target treatment areas of the scalp.
After investing in the initial treatment, maintenance sessions are required to ensure successful results. You should schedule these sessions every four to six months.
Side effects of PRP therapy for hair loss
While PRP treatment for hair loss is safe, there are a few potential side effects to note. Remember that these side effects are minimal. Some of the most common side effects of PRP therapy for hair loss include the following.
- Calcification at the injection points
- Injury to blood vessels or nerves
- Scar tissue
- Infection
- Negative reaction to the anesthetic
How effective is PRP therapy for hair loss?
In studies, PRP injections are not effective in people who are completely bald. However, patients with varying levels of hair loss may see an improvement. Exceptions include anyone with existing medical conditions, such as thyroid disease or lupus, where hair loss is a side effect. In addition, patients on blood thinners do not have as much success with this treatment because medications reduce the effectiveness of the platelets.
There are many examples of successful PRP therapy. Many testimonials of patients talk about the benefits of this therapy and the long-term results people experience.
Who can benefit from this procedure?
Simply put, anyone who is struggling with hair loss can benefit from this procedure. This includes the following people and circumstances.
- People of any gender. While many discuss male pattern balding and hair thinning extensively, women often suffer similar circumstances. However, they do not benefit from the same amount of available information.
- People of any age. Clinical trials with people ranging from 18 to 72 years of age were successful.
- People with Androgenic alopecia or other forms of Alopecia. Otherwise known as male/female pattern baldness, this hereditary condition affects around 80 million people in the United States alone.
- People with high stress/cortisol.
- People with thinning or balding hair. PRP injections thicken, strengthen, and grow hair from follicles that are still functioning.
You should note that people who recently experienced hair loss have a better chance of fixing the situation.
What is the cost of PRP therapy?
Generally, patients can expect to pay from $1,500–$3,500 for the initial three treatments. Specifically, one injection is approximately $400 or more.
The price of PRP hair loss treatment ranges based on a few variables. This includes:
- Quality of equipment
- The geographic location of the treatment center
- Any added nutritive components
Unfortunately, many insurance providers consider PRP hair loss therapy as a cosmetic procedure. As a result, they do not cover the costs associated with the treatment. Contact your specific insurance provider to find out if insurance covers this therapy for you.
Find the right plastic surgeon for you!
To find the right doctor to administer PRP for hair loss, look for an expert with years of experience. He should understand your goals and be able to answer all of your questions. Helping patients in northern NJ for over 20 years, Dr. Berlet specializes in a variety of cosmetic procedures with the overall goal to help them look refreshed and increase their self-esteem. Contact our team to learn more about how Dr. Berlet can help you!