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Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)

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Platelet rich fibrin, or simply PRF, is considered the ‘next generation’ platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment. PRF is similar to PRP in that both are derived from your own blood. Therefore, both cosmetic treatments are considered entirely natural methods when it comes to anti-aging.

What is PRF?

PRF is a fibrin-based, biological matrix that contains a mixture of platelets, white blood cells and stem cell attractants. It is ‘made’ by drawing your own blood and processing it in a specific manner to generate PRF. It is made in a similar manner as PRP, but specifically does not contain any additives, such as the blood thinner.

PRF does contain a concentrated amount of platelets. So it has all the benefits of PRP injection. The main difference is that PRF becomes more gel-like once it comes in contact with your soft tissues. In doing so, the fibrin gel matrix allows all of those precious growth factors and stem cell attractants to stay within that area for a longer period of time compared with PRP. That is because the fibrin matrix acts as a localized scaffolding under the skin. The end result is that the regenerative powers of PRF are more impactful and effective when it comes to healing and rejuvenation.

PRF Benefits

So what can PRF be used for when it comes to cosmetic and anti-aging treatments? One of the most popular uses for PRF is injection underneath the skin to restore lost volume from the aging process. In a manner not too different from injectable fillers, PRF can be injected into soft tissue to plump out the overlying skin.

For example, PRF is commonly used to enhance lower eyelid hollows and dark shadowing that bothers so many patients. This is often termed PRF tear trough treatment since it targets the volume deficient trough running along the lower eyelid. When used in this manner, cosmetic results can be seen that rival those gained with fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane. In some cases, PRF can be added to these fillers to get an even more pronounced cosmetic improvement.

In other patients, PRF can be used to rejuvenate the skin surface. For example, PRF is commonly used in conjunction with microneedling, like our SkinPen rejuvenation treatments. Since PRF enhances the body’s natural wound response by promoting more growth factor activity via platelet delivery, cosmetic results can be greatly improved in an all-natural manner.

Other benefits of PRF include correction of facial wrinkles and fine lines, more uniform skin tone and color, less hyperpigmentation of the skin and natural collagen production.

PRF Consultation

If you are considering PRF treatment, don’t hesitate to contact our San Diego office to schedule a consultation with our expert medical spa staff. In most cases, PRF treatments can be completed during that same office visit.

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