What is the vampire facelift?
PRP is called the vampire facelift because your own blood is taken and separated in different constituents. Then the plasma with the platelets is re-injected into the skin. PRP has been used a lot in orthopedic medicine, dentistry, and reconstructive surgery, and now its benefits are being applied to other fields of medicine such as dermatology and cosmetology. Plasma is rich in platelets (PRP) and it contains growth factors which stimulate skin regeneration.
Platelets are an important part in our blood and is necessary for normal clotting. Nevertheless, these particular platelets when activated, release several proteins as well as growth factors which release stem cells. This then increases collagen formation, skin-tightening and overall rejuvenation.
How is the vampire facelift done?
PRP or vampire facelift only takes a quick 20-30 minute. A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient and placed in a sterile tube. While the patient waits, it is spun in a centrifuge at a pre calculated speed for 5-10 minutes to separate the different components of the blood.
Red and white blood cells are divided from the platelets and the plasma. This plasma now contains a higher than normal number of platelets, nearly fivefold. The separated platelets are then activated with calcium chloride. This is done to release more growth factors.
Local anesthesia is given and the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is injected into the appropriate areas with small needles similar to those used in Botox injections.
