Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) provides a safe and effective treatment option for various cosmetic and medical issues, including hair loss, wrinkles, and joint pain. At I40First, primary care providers Julito Uy, MD, George Peterson, DNP, FNP-C, and the team use platelet-rich plasma to harness the body’s regenerative ability. To see if you’re a candidate for platelet-rich plasma, call the office in Amarillo, Texas, or book online. 

What is platelet-rich plasma?

Platelet-rich plasma is a minimally invasive procedure that uses growth factors in your blood (platelets) to encourage your body’s natural healing process. 

During treatment, your I40First provider draws some of your blood and puts it into a machine that converts it into a platelet-rich solution. Afterward, your provider administers a series of injections, encouraging recovery. 

What types of issues can platelet-rich plasma treat?

At I40First, the team uses platelet-rich plasma to treat various issues, including:

• Hair loss
• Female urinary incontinence
• Wrinkles 
• Acne scars
• Musculoskeletal pain

The team also uses platelet-rich plasma to enhance sexual function in both sexes. These procedures are called the P-Shot® in men and the O-Shot® in women.

What happens during a platelet-rich plasma visit?

If the team at I40First determines that you can benefit from platelet-rich plasma, they draw a sample of blood from a vein in your arm. Then, your provider puts the blood into a centrifuge that spins at high speeds, isolating your platelets.

When the platelet-rich solution is ready, your provider transfers it to a syringe and administers a series of injections. 

Where you receive the injections depends on the part of your body treated. For example, if you suffer from chronic knee pain, your provider injects the platelet-rich plasma into your knee joint and the surrounding tissues. 

Likewise, if you want to address wrinkles and acne scars, your provider injects the solution into specific areas of your face.

After the platelet-rich solution enters your body, it encourages circulation to the treatment site and speeds up your body’s healing process. That reduces inflammation and results in the formation of new and healthy tissue.

Is platelet-rich plasma safe?

Platelet-rich plasma is safe and usually well-tolerated. Since the treatment uses growth factors derived from your own blood, there’s little risk of infection. 

That said, after your appointment, it’s normal to experience mild redness and swelling at the injection sites. You can apply an ice pack to the area or take an over-the-counter medication, like Tylenol®, for relief. Stronger pain medication can be prescribed as well.

How long does it take for platelet-rich plasma to work?

The time it takes for platelet-rich plasma to work depends on various factors, including your age, medical history, and the issue treated. 

Some people experience an improvement in their symptoms right away, but for others, it takes weeks or even months. Be patient, attend each of your checkups, and follow your provider’s recovery instructions.

To explore the benefits of platelet-rich plasma, make an appointment at I40First by calling the nearest office or booking online today.