PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Okan Morkoç
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is an advanced treatment that utilizes the body’s natural healing properties to stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health. This procedure involves extracting a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the enriched plasma into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors that promote cell regeneration, enhance blood circulation, and strengthen hair follicles, making PRP an effective solution for hair thinning and early-stage hair loss.
How PRP Works for Hair Restoration
PRP therapy works by rejuvenating dormant hair follicles, prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle, and reducing hair shedding. The growth factors in PRP help stimulate stem cells in the scalp, increasing collagen production and nourishing hair roots. This results in thicker, healthier hair over time. PRP is particularly effective for individuals experiencing androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness) or those looking to enhance the results of a hair transplant.
PRP Therapy Process: Step-by-Step
- Blood Extraction: A small sample of blood is drawn from the patient, similar to a routine blood test.
- Centrifugation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge, which spins at high speed to separate the platelet-rich plasma from red blood cells.
- PRP Injection: The concentrated plasma, rich in growth factors, is injected into targeted areas of the scalp using fine needles.
- Post-Treatment Care: Patients may experience mild redness or sensitivity, but they can resume normal activities immediately.
PRP Therapy Process: Step-by-Step
- Blood Extraction: A small sample of blood is drawn from the patient, similar to a routine blood test.
- Centrifugation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge, which spins at high speed to separate the platelet-rich plasma from red blood cells.
- PRP Injection: The concentrated plasma, rich in growth factors, is injected into targeted areas of the scalp using fine needles.
- Post-Treatment Care: Patients may experience mild redness or sensitivity, but they can resume normal activities immediately.
PRP Treatment Timeline
- Session 1 (Week 1-2): Initial consultation and first PRP session.
- Session 2 (Week 4-6): Second session to reinforce the initial effects.
- Session 3 (Month 3-4): Third session for continued stimulation of hair follicles.
- Month 6-12: Gradual improvement in hair thickness, with visible results.
- Maintenance (Every 6-12 Months): Follow-up treatments to sustain long-term hair health.
Individuals with early-stage hair loss, thinning hair, or post-hair transplant patients benefit the most from PRP therapy.
The entire process takes approximately 45-60 minutes, including blood extraction, processing, and injection.
Patients may experience mild discomfort, but numbing creams or local anesthetics can be used to minimize pain.
Since PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or side effects is minimal. Some temporary redness or swelling may occur.
Most patients start noticing improvements in hair thickness and reduced shedding after 3-6 months of consistent treatment.
Typically, 3-4 initial sessions are recommended, followed by maintenance treatments every 6-12 months.