The Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products AEPS, on May 23, 2013 considers that “platelets play a very important role in the repair and regeneration of different tissues such as bone, cartilage, tendons and ligaments” and on November 6 , defines Platelet Rich Plasma PRP as a medicinal product for human use, “substance possessing properties for the treatment or prevention of diseases in humans or administered to humans in order to restore, correct or modify physiological functions…” Its indications and regulation are defined.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma?
Platelet Rich Plasma is derived from the patient’s own blood. It is a fraction of our plasma with a high concentration of platelets, rich in FC Growth Factors, which are released into the tissues when they are stimulated. These factors have a very powerful regenerative action where they are injected.
What does biostimulation with Growth Factors consist of?
It consists of depositing a large amount of biologically active growth factors in the area to be treated to stimulate its regeneration.
Until recently, growth factors were obtained in the laboratory by genetic engineering. Nowadays they are obtained from the patient’s own blood, by means of a simple blood extraction. It is centrifuged, the Platelet Rich Plasma is separated and activated with calcium. In 30 minutes we can have a concentrate of sufficient growth factors for treatment.
In the injected area they stimulate the formation of collagen in the skin, cartilage, bone, tissue repair and decrease wound healing time.
What type of patients can resort to Biostimulation with Growth Factors?
In Aesthetic Medicine they are used with excellent results in the biostimulation of the skin of any area of the body, especially the face, neck and hands. In the treatment of wounds, stretch marks and scars, and in the treatment and prevention of hair loss.
Growth Factors are also used in dentistry, traumatology, surgery, otorhinoloringology, burns and dermatology.
What results can you expect?
In Aesthetic Medicine, they have a clear skin rejuvenating effect. It is the most physiological and natural method to stimulate skin cells to generate collagen and elastin. They also improve circulation and promote drainage. We will achieve a more elastic, firmer and consistent skin, with better appearance, texture and luminosity. In short, we will rejuvenate the skin.
The results are evident at any age, but are greater in younger people, with a greater response capacity. To prevent aging it is advisable to start treatments around the age of 30.
My experience in the treatment of stretch marks, when they are still pink and remain highly responsive, is excellent.
In the treatment of alopecia, the results are good, but each case must be evaluated.
What advantages does Biostimulation with Growth Factors have over others seeking the same results?
Treatment with Platelet Rich Plasma belongs to Regenerative Medicine. Growth Factors, unlike other medications, are not synthesized from other products, but are isolated from the patient’s own blood, and are injected where they are needed, and in sufficient quantities to achieve their regenerative effect.
How many sessions are required and how often do they have to be done?
To rejuvenate the skin, at least two Platelet Rich Plasma treatments are performed per year. In the treatment of stretch marks, scars and ulcers, or in the treatment of alopecia, the intervals are shorter, can be 15 days or a month. In traumatology and other specialties, the protocol varies depending on the problem to be treated.
Does biostimulation with growth factors have contraindications?
Given its autologous origin, i.e. from the patient’s own blood, it cannot produce any rejection. Nor does it interfere with the use of other medications. The cases in which it should not be applied are regulated by the Spanish Medicines Agency.
Regenerative Medicine opens a path to the advancement of Medicine in general, and to Aesthetic Medicine.