What is PRP Treatment?
Scientific Basis: The Hidden Power of Platelets
To understand what PRP treatment is, it’s necessary to know the heroes in our blood, namely platelets. Our blood basically consists of a liquid part (plasma) and cellular elements (red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets). Platelets are the cells that normally rush to the site of bleeding when it occurs, causing clotting and stopping the bleeding. However, scientists have discovered that the role of platelets is not just “patching.”
Platelets contain very powerful proteins called “Growth Factors.” Growth factors such as PDGF (Platelet Derived Growth Factor), TGF-beta, and VEGF are released when tissue damage occurs and stimulate stem cells to initiate the repair process. The logic behind PRP treatment is this: Concentrating the amount of platelets found in normal blood circulation using special methods and returning them to the damaged or aged tissue at 3-5 times the normal concentration. Thus, the healing and regeneration process in that area is triggered much more strongly and quickly than its natural flow.
Application Process: Blood Transformation
PRP application is a three-stage procedure performed in sterile clinical conditions, lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
1. Blood Collection (Phlebotomy)
The procedure begins with taking a small amount of blood (usually 10-20 cc) from the patient’s arm vein, just like a routine blood test. This blood is collected in tubes specifically designed for PRP, containing a special substance that prevents clotting.
2. Centrifugation Process (Separation)
The collected blood tube is placed in a device called a “centrifuge,” which rotates at high speed. Thanks to centrifugal force, the components of the blood are separated into layers according to their weight. Red blood cells (erythrocytes) accumulate at the bottom, while platelet-poor plasma remains at the top. In the middle, the “Buffy Coat” layer, which we call “golden fluid,” forms, where platelets are concentrated.
3. Injection (Application)
This rich plasma is injected in small doses into the skin, scalp, or joint area to be treated using very fine needles (mesotherapy needles). Pain is minimal because a local anesthetic cream is applied before the procedure.
Areas of Use: Aesthetics and Beyond
PRP is used in many areas of medicine thanks to its multifaceted biological effects. The most common applications of PRP in clinics in Izmir are:
Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging
With age, collagen production in our skin slows down, the skin thins, dries, and wrinkles. When PRP is injected under the skin, it stimulates fibroblast cells, triggering the production of new collagen and elastin (Neocollagenosis).
Benefits: It evens out skin tone, reduces fine wrinkles, gives the skin radiance and vitality, and tightens pores. It is an effective supportive treatment, especially for under-eye dark circles and neck wrinkles.
Hair Loss Treatment
In genetic hair loss (Androgenetic Alopecia) or seasonal hair loss, hair follicles gradually shrink and cannot be nourished. PRP increases vascularization (Angiogenesis) in the hair follicles, ensuring better nourishment of the follicles.
Benefits: It helps slow down hair loss, thickens thin hair, and makes hair look more vibrant. It is also frequently applied after hair transplant operations to increase the retention rate of transplanted follicles and accelerate wound healing.
Scars and Acne Scars
Deep acne scars or wound scars on the skin are the result of tissue loss or impaired healing. PRP restarts the repair mechanism in these areas, improving the skin’s tissue.It helps to correct this. The success rate usually increases when combined with Microneedling (Dermapen/Gold Needle) methods.
Environmental Factors and the Need for PRP in Izmir
Living in Izmir is both a blessing and a test for our skin.
- Sun Damage (Photoaging): Izmir’s intense UV rays disrupt the DNA structure in the skin, leading to blemishes and loss of elasticity. PRP helps reverse this oxidative damage caused by the sun by providing repair at the cellular level.
The Search for Naturalness: Izmir residents tend to prefer natural methods that improve the skin’s own quality, rather than procedures that alter facial expressions, such as fillers that add volume, or procedures that freeze muscles, such as Botox. PRP fully meets this expectation with its concept of “beauty from your own blood”.
Differences Between PRP and Mesotherapy
These two methods, which are often confused, are actually different in terms of content and mechanism. The following table summarizes these differences:
| Feature | PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) | Mesotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Main Material | The patient’s own blood (Autologous). | Laboratory-produced vitamin and mineral cocktails. |
| Content | Growth factors, platelets. | Hyaluronic acid, vitamins, peptides. |
| Allergy Risk | None (Own blood) (your blood). | There is a possibility, albeit a very low one. |
| Mechanism of Action | Stimulation of cellular repair and regeneration. | Replacement of missing substances (Supplementation). |
| Frequency of Application | Usually 3-4 sessions with 3-4 week intervals. | 4-6 sessions with 1-2 week intervals. |
Safety Profile: Are There Any Side Effects?
The biggest advantage of PRP treatment is its extremely high safety profile. Because the substance used is entirely derived from the patient’s own blood (autologous), there are no risks of the body rejecting it, showing an allergic reaction, or transmitting diseases (hepatitis, HIV, etc.).
Possible side effects are only related to the injection procedure. Temporary redness, mild swelling, or small bruises may occur at the needle insertion sites. These heal spontaneously within a few days.
Who is it suitable for?
PRP treatment is suitable for almost anyone in good general health.
Contraindications:
It is not recommended for cancer patients, those taking blood-thinning medications (should be evaluated under doctor’s supervision), those with low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), those with active infections, and pregnant/breastfeeding mothers.
Post-Application Precautions
Patients who have PRP treatment in Izmir are advised to pay attention to the following points in order to get maximum benefit from the treatment:
- Heat Contact: Hot baths should not be taken on the day of the application, and saunas or Turkish baths should be avoided.
- Sun Protection: Since the skin may become sensitive after the procedure, it should be protected from the sun and sunscreen should be applied.
- Blood Thinners: A few days before and after the procedure, blood thinner medications (aspirin, etc.) and herbal teas (green tea) may be restricted under doctor’s supervision as they may increase the risk of bruising.
Conclusion: The Healing Power of Nature
In short; the answer to the question “What is PRP Treatment?” is not a biological miracle, but a biological science. It is the process of transferring our body’s healing soldiers to the front where they are needed. Instead of applying synthetic substances externally to rejuvenate the skin, strengthen the hair, or erase scars, it’s about using the body’s own pharmacy.
If you are looking for a natural, reliable, and effective aesthetic solution in Izmir, PRP treatment is a strong option. This biological investment in your skin and hair is one of the healthiest steps to take to slow down the effects of time.
