Examiner.com posted “Nonsurgical skin rejuvenation with Dr. Juan Fernando Medrano” by Kristin Eckland.
Nonsurgical cosmetic treatments such as laser light treatment, chemical peels and injectable fillers have become increasingly popular ways to fight the inevitable appearance of aging. Some people use these treatments in hopes of achieving more natural results in lieu of surgery, as part of a plan to ‘age gracefully’. Other individuals may utilize these therapies as part of a more comprehensive regimen which may include such procedures as face-lifts, blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) and fat grafting to maintain a more youthful look. One of the newest and most popular nonsurgical skin rejuvenation treatments is called Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.
Dr. Juan Fernando Medrano, a doctor specializing in medical aesthetics, has invited Examiner.com to his clinic in Mexicali, Mexico come take a closer look at Platelet Rich Plasma as a skin rejuvenation treatment.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma?
One of the reasons for the immediate popularity of this treatment is its origins. Platelet rich plasma comes from the client themselves, with almost no chemical alteration. During the treatment session, a small vial of the client’s blood is taken, similar to many routine doctor’s appointments. This vial is then placed into a centrifuge for several minutes. The blood inside the vial forms a mini-rainbow of red, white and a yellowish fluid after the centrifuge separates the blood into its components; red blood cells, buffy coat and platelets. It is this last portion; a thin, straw-colored serum that is used. It is drawn into a syringe with a very fine tipped needle, and minute amounts are injected in many tiny little pricks along the surface of the face. Larger amounts may be injected into the hands or other areas.
How PRP works
Kim et al. investigated the dermatological effects of platelet rich plasma in their 2011 publication. The researchers found that the application of platelet rich plasma to the skin helped promote tissue healing and restoration of natural skin properties. The nutrient rich plasma contains large amounts of many of the elements necessary for skin health. These nutrients include growth factors that stimulate collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity. Collagen along with other nutrients are depleted from the skin as part of the aging process. This loss may be accelerated in individuals with a history of excessive sun exposure or smoking.
PRP and Dr. Medrano
In Dr. Medrano’s practice, after platelet rich plasma is made from the client’s blood and administered; a light mud mask is then applied for its cooling properties. Clients relax, listening to soft music in a darkened room for several minutes before the mask is removed. Dr. Medrano believes that this helps limit swelling or redness, which are the main side effects of this procedure. Dr. Medrano recommends a series of three treatments over several months for optimal and long-lasting results. Results last, on average, from 1 to 2 years.
Today’s client has just a small amount of blotchy redness on her forehead from the treatment, which should resolve quickly. Post treatment, she is instructed to wear sunscreen and avoid the sun as much as possible for the next week. This is particularly important for clients living near Dr. Medrano’s clinic in the sun-drenched heat of Mexicali, Mexico.
How does Platelet Rich Plasma fit into this schemata?
In an era where there is an increased awareness and availability of anti-aging products and procedures to restore vitality and youthfulness, platelet rich plasma is just one of a multitude of options. This treatment is often touted as an alternative to fillers or other treatments using harsh or artificial chemicals due to its origins. But that is not an entirely accurate description; it is not an antiaging or wrinkle reducing treatment. People looking for immediate relaxation of crow’s feet or deep wrinkles will be disappointed.
Subtle results, but more than skin deep
Treatment results are more subtle, making this a good option for people who may be hesitant to try more dramatic treatments. It also makes platelet rich plasma a good add-on treatment for individuals looking to improve more than the appearance of their skin. In fact, it was the healing properties of the platelet rich plasma, which is also known as “gel matrix” or “plasma gel” that made this treatment popular in other surgical specialties. Orthopedic surgeons, cardiac surgeons, dentists and wound
care specialists, for instance, have used this treatment to speed healing, particularly in people at increased risk for wound dehiscence or infections such as diabetics or patients with vascular disease.
Skin Rejuvenation versus Muscle Paralysis
As a skin rejuvenation treatment, the aim of PRP is to improve the overall health of the skin of the face, hands and (sometimes) the cleavage area. This means that the skin tone, and texture are improved. The youthful effects are generally related to the improved condition of the skin itself. Some patients may report an improvement in the appearance of fine lines, but nothing akin to the immediate and dramatic results of Botox.
In comparison, Botox or botulism toxin works by paralyzing the muscles of the face resulting in a slackening or relaxation of the muscle underlying the skin, lessening the appearance of wrinkles. This is a controlled application of a naturally occurring deadly toxin, and the resultant effects last from 3 to 6 months, on average. However, some critics note that botulism injections often result in an artificial appearance and an inability to form natural facial expressions such as a smile.
As part of a larger anti-aging regimen
Platelet rich plasma therapy is not always a stand alone treatment. It is frequently used in conjunction with other therapies to enhance effects. Treatments such as laser therapies (ie. laser resurfacing) or chemical peels work by changing the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis. These treatments may be combined with treatments such as platelet rich plasma to augment the results.
Platelet rich plasma may also enhance healing in patients after cosmetic surgery; speeding healing, reducing inflammation and promoting skin health after a face-lift, for example.