Plasma-based treatments have been used in the medical field for more than three decades. The treatment harnesses the regenerative powers of the platelets in our own blood to treat everything from wounds to joint injuries to baldness to wrinkles.
Although it started as a therapy for musculoskeletal injuries, dermatologists have been using plasma-based treatments as a regenerative therapy for the skin since the 2000s. The procedure became a household name in 2013, when Kim Kardashian made headlines after posting a post-treatment selfie hash-tagged "Vampire Facial." The high concentration of growth factors, platelets, mesenchymal stem cells, and cytokines in this platelet-loaded plasma all help repair the tissues in the treatment area, leading to improvements in skin texture, tone and elasticity. Plasma-based injections are also clinically proven to stimulate hair growth. Learn more >>
Plasma-based collagen stimulators are unique in that the ‘injectable’ is made by your own body. However, it’s the solution preparation and injection technique that make all the difference. That’s where the skill of the dermatologist comes into play. The preparation of the plasma solution must be very precise – the less you manipulate the material, the better it works. When it comes to the actual injections, these treatments are incredibly technique-sensitive. It’s key to be at a 90-degree angle, ensuring the needles penetrate the skin uniformly.
As an experienced dermatologist, Dr. Kuzel is skilled in the safe, precise, natural application of these injections to ensure you have the best possible results from your treatment.
This treatment solution consists of two elements: plasma, or the liquid portion of blood, and platelets, a type of blood cell that plays an important role in healing throughout the body.
The process involves drawing a small amount of the patient's blood and then using a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other blood components. The resulting solution is re-injected into the treatment area using a cannula or fine needle to stimulate and accelerate the natural production of new skin cells, collagen and elastin.
Your plasma-based collagen stimulator treatment starts with a routine blood draw by one of our Rejuv nursing team. Next, the nurse will spin your blood vial in a device called a centrifuge for seven to eight minutes to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the other components of your blood.
Once the vial is ready, we’ll cleanse the treatment area to prepare for the injections. Dr. Kuzel will inject the plasma solution in precise locations to maximize the benefits of collagen and elastic production in the desired areas. The solution can also be applied topically following laser or microneedling treatments to aid in healing and maximize the treatment benefits.
Injections can take between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the area treated.
There is no downtime associated injections for this treatment. After treatment, your skin may be a little red and tender. Some people also experience some swelling in treatment areas. The symptoms typically resolve within 24 hours.
At your consultation, Dr. Kuzel will ask questions about your medical history and expectations and provide instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
Be sure to discuss your current prescription medications with Dr. Kuzel. Some steroid medications such as prednisone or hydrocortisone may interact with platelet-rich plasma. The presence of blood thinners may interfere with the number of platelets available during the session.