PRP for Male Hair Loss

How does the treatment work?

It involves passing a needle-rolling hand piece over the affected area. The needles penetrate into the second layer of the skin, where the hair follicles are pierced creating thousands of miniature skin wounds.  The Platelet Rich Plasma containing concentrated amounts of growth factors is then infused directly into the scalp.  The skin remains intact and is not damaged therefore promoting constructive regeneration.  As the skin begins its wound healing process these growth factors are present in the follicular bulge area, where stem cells are found. This activates the proliferative phase of the hair cycle, resulting in new thicker, hair growth.

What does the treatment involve?

A local anaesthetic cream is applied to your scalp for 20 minutes so that only a mild discomfort is felt during the treatment.  A small hand piece consisting of hundreds of micro-fine needles is rolled over the area to be treated.  A simple blood sample is extracted (similar to a blood test). This blood is then placed in the centrifuge for 15 minutes. When centrifugation is complete, your plasma will be separated from your red blood cells. The rich platelets are extracted from the base of the plasma gel and are then reinjected into the skin.

What can I expect after the procedure?

There is minimal discomfort associated with this procedure and almost no downtime. Skin will appear flushed and red immediately after treatment. You may also experience a ‘sunburn’ like sensation. This normally subsides within 24 hours. You may also experience some minor swelling, inflammation or bruising at the injection sites – although this can vary from patient to patient.

Results. What and when can I expect them?

Results are not immediate. Hair growth will start to become visible about 3-4 months after your initial treatment as the platelets stimulate the growth factors which assist in more hair growth. This will gradually improve over the ensuing months (* Results may vary from patient to patient). For optimal results, we recommend you have a treatment every 2 – 4 weeks, 3 to 5 times. We then review the progress of the hair growth at 6 months and one top up treatment can be done if necessary at 8 – 9 months (* Results may vary from patient to patient).

Are there any side effects?

The area treated is usually swollen for a few hours to two days and there may be some bruising. Your own blood is used so allergies or reactions are not a concern with PRP and there is minimal to no risk of scarring or changes in pigmentation.