Fillers and PRP Scottsdale

Platelet rich plasma, or PRP, has been revolutionizing many areas of medicine, from orthopedics to skincare. While this treatment can be powerful on its own, it can be even more powerful when combined with other treatments. New research is showing incredible results from using hyaluronic acid fillers along with PRP, for complete facial rejuvenation.

What is PRP?

PRP is made from the patient’s own blood. At the beginning of the treatment session, a small vial of blood is drawn. This is then placed in a centrifuge, which is a scientific instrument that spins very fast. This causes the cells to settle to the bottom, while the plasma (the liquid of the blood) and the tiny platelets (blood clotting agents) stay at the top. The PRP is the plasma plus the platelets; it’s basically the patient’s own blood, minus the blood cells.

There are various ways to use PRP in facial cosmetic medicine. It can be used along with microneedling or microdermabrasion, or it can be injected under the skin. PRP works by stimulating the body’s healing response, causing the generation of proteins like collagen that make the skin tighter and smoother.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid, or HA, is a natural substance found in the deeper layers of the skin. It acts like a molecular sponge, holding water in the tissues. This maintains their volume, keeping the skin hydrated so that it has a smooth and tight appearance.

HA fillers are used to add volume back to areas that have lost it as part of the aging process. They can be injected into deep grooves and wrinkles (such as the lines that run from the nose to the mouth), or into areas such as the midface (the cheeks).  

How is PRP combined with hyaluronic acid?

In order to combine the two treatments, the PRP is first obtained from the patient through the blood draw and centrifuge. Next, the PRP is combined with HA. This mixture is then injected into the areas where the patient needs extra volume.

The HA provides an instant volume boost in these areas. The PRP acts over time to stimulate the growth of new tissue. This new tissue will grow around the HA filler so that the volume boost is maintained for a longer period of time.

Is PRP plus HA effective?

Studies have shown that combining these two treatments is highly effective in facial rejuvenation. PRP plus HA results in a significant improvement in general appearance, skin sagging, and skin texture. Further, the patients who received more injections had a higher degree of satisfaction. Although one injection will generally lead to visible results, many people get three to five injections spaced a few weeks apart.

Fillers and PRP Scottsdale

If you’re considering having treatment with a combination of PRP and HA fillers, we invite you to visit our office here in Scottsdale. After examining you and learning about your goals for your appearance, Dr. Henderson will be happy to discuss all of your treatment options, from fillers to botox to laser treatments. She can make recommendations about what would be most likely to get you the results that you want. You can then decide which treatment plan you’d like to pursue. Simply contact our front desk to schedule your appointment.